By Kenneth Marcos 
Early morning in Davao City, piles of freshly harvested pummelos lined the sorting tables as farmers carefully checked each fruit for size, color, and firmness. For many growers, these small details determine whether their harvest stays in local markets or reaches buyers abroad.
The Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Agriculture and Fisheries Standards (DA-BAFS) has begun a detailed review of how pummelos are graded and classified in the country. The assessment compares local practices with standards set by ASEAN and the Codex Alimentarius, the international food safety reference used by many global markets.
Officials said the initiative aims to help Filipino farmers and traders improve product quality and meet international benchmarks. By aligning standards, the government hopes to expand market access for Philippine-grown pummelos, which are known for their sweet flavor and long shelf life.
During the evaluation in Davao City, experts examined pummelos based on size, weight, rind texture, color, and overall appearance. These factors are widely used by importing countries to ensure that fruits arriving at ports are uniform, safe, and free from defects. Even small inconsistencies can lead to rejected shipments and losses for farmers.
BAFS noted that harmonizing Philippine standards with regional and global guidelines will support growers in preparing fruits that meet strict export requirements. It will also help protect consumers by ensuring that fruits sold in the market—local or international—are fresh, clean, and of consistent quality.
Davao Region remains the country’s top producer of pummelo, supplying both domestic markets and select export destinations in Asia and the Middle East. However, growers face challenges such as uneven grading practices, lack of post-harvest facilities, and limited access to updated guidelines. The new review seeks to close these gaps and provide farmers with clear, science-based criteria.
Agriculture officials added that improving standards is only one part of a larger effort to strengthen the country’s fruit industry. Training, better packaging, and improved market linkages are necessary to keep Philippine produce competitive as global buyers demand higher quality and tighter certification.
The results of the DA-BAFS review will guide future policies and help develop tools that farmers can use in the field, such as clearer grading charts and improved handling protocols. Stakeholders are encouraged to participate in consultations to ensure the standards reflect real conditions on the ground.
As demand for high-quality tropical fruits grows worldwide, the DA believes that stricter and more unified standards can help Filipino pummelos stand out. For farmers in Davao and beyond, this effort could mean more stable prices, stronger market confidence, and greater opportunities for export growth.
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