The Philippines has lost 100,000 metric tons of onions in 2022 due to the lack of cold storage and improper handling, the Department of Agriculture (DA) revealed on Tuesday.

"Thirty-five percent loss is also noted after harvest due to lack of facilities such as cold storages and improper handling. In 2022 alone, the DA recorded a 100,000 MT loss," the DA said in a news release uploaded on their website.

In 2022, DA said a total of 283,172 MT of red and yellow onions and shallots were harvested from the 29,728 hectares production area. However, the monthly requirement was posted at 21, 679 MT.

It added that other factors that affected the price and supply of the commodity were the increase in the price of production inputs, including fertilizers and seed; low level of mechanization and high labor cost; expensive marketing and distribution scheme; limited access to credit facilities; and inconsistencies in information.

"ORION seeks to promote a competitive, resilient, and profitable onion industry providing high quality, safe, affordable, and sustainable supply of onion to meet increasing domestic demand," the DA said.

During its implementation, it will improve the productivity and efficiency of onion plantations thru PhilGAP certification, reduce pre- and post-harvest losses, improve product distribution and logistics, and ensure sustainable supply in the local market.

The agency noted among the strategies and programs that will be carried out is providing easy access to credit loans, which may be used for the purchase of equipment and establishment of facilities. Farmer clusters and associations will also be organized for production and market integration.