Davao City Ramps Up PhilGAP Certification Drive for Durian Export Expansion
The Davao City Agriculturist's Office (CAgrO) is significantly enhancing its initiatives to fast-track the certification and renewal processes for Philippine Good Agricultural Practices (PhilGAP) across local durian farms. This strategic move aims to solidify Davao's reputation as a premier supplier of high-quality durian in competitive international markets, where demand for premium tropical fruits continues to grow.
PhilGAP Certification as a Gateway to Global Trade
The PhilGAP certification serves as an essential requirement for exporting durian to countries with rigorous enforcement of standards related to food safety, quality assurance, worker welfare, and environmental sustainability. Beyond mere compliance, this certification significantly improves product traceability, allowing international consumers to verify the origin and superior quality of Philippine durian with confidence and trust.
Technical Assistance and Economic Empowerment for Farmers
Fe Oguio, Acting Municipal Agricultural Officer of Tugbok District, highlighted that the certification effort transcends regulatory adherence. She emphasized its dual role in ensuring food safety and empowering durian farmers to compete effectively on the global stage.
"We at the City Agri have programs providing technical assistance to farmers because it's crucial for them to learn the correct agricultural methods. One key reason we are pushing this certification is the substantial opportunity it presents, with significant impact on economic conditions. Farmers can achieve higher prices and witness tangible improvements in their product quality," Oguio explained during an interview with Madayaw Davao on Davao City Disaster Radio on January 21, 2026.
She noted that while Davao City already hosts several GAP-certified durian exporters, their numbers remain relatively limited compared to the city's total durian farming community, indicating substantial room for growth and participation.
Industry Leaders Advocate for Certification Renewal
Candelario B. Miculob, President of the Durian Exporters Association of the Philippines, strongly urged durian farmers to renew and register their PhilGAP certifications. This proactive step is vital to maintaining durian's esteemed reputation as a premium commodity and positioning the Philippines as a dependable source of top-tier durian.
"We are encouraging our farmers who haven't renewed yet to note the announced locations for renewing their PhilGAP certification, as it's a critical requirement. We urge them to seize this opportunity because they will receive valuable benefits from the government," Miculob stated.
He further clarified that the PhilGAP certification is provided free of charge, with farmers only required to participate in training sessions and fulfill necessary documentation procedures.
Securing Market Opportunities and Boosting Local Economy
The CAgrO continues to actively encourage durian farmers to leverage the PhilGAP certification program. By doing so, farmers can access better market opportunities, command premium prices, and contribute meaningfully to Davao City's expanding agricultural economy. This initiative not only supports individual farmer livelihoods but also enhances the overall competitiveness of the Philippine durian industry on the world stage.
