The Department of Agriculture announced that the Philippines' first onion research and extension center will be established in the country's top onion producer, Bongabon, Nueva Ecija, to boost the onion industry and help local farmers.
In a press release, DA chief Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the DA is already looking for better onion seeds to increase farmers' yields.
“Our goal is clear: make the Philippines self-sufficient in onion production, eliminate the need for imports, and increase the income of local farmers,” stated Tiu Laurel.
Apart from the facility, Tiu Laurel also promised to double the funds and allocate up to PHP5 million for the purchase of pheromone lures or chemicals used to trap insects that destroy crops.
Moreover, in 2024, onion production in the country reached over 264,323 metric tons, a 4.48% increase from 2023.
However, this still falls short of the expected demand of 270,000 metric tons.
Just this past month of February, the DA approved the importation of 4,000 tonnes of onions.
Bongabon contributed to more than 15% of the total onion production in the country last year, the department reported.
It can be remembered that in 2022, the Philippines experienced record-high onion prices, peaking at P700 per kilo.
The Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) estimates monthly domestic consumption at 17,000 metric tons for red onions and 4,000 metric tons for white onions.
Secretary Laurel also urged local officials in the province to cooperate with them in strengthening food security and preventing smuggling that affects the livelihood of onion farmers.
Meanwhile, aside from the research center, the Department will also provide high-quality seeds, farm inputs, and pest management services to ensure the continuous growth of the onion industry in the country.
