By Kenneth Marcos 
The sweet scent of freshly picked mangoes filled the air as farmers from Isabela gathered to learn new ways to improve their crops. The Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Plant Industry (DA-BPI) recently held a Package of Technology (POT) Training under the Mango Rehabilitation Program on November 5–6, 2025, with the goal of strengthening mango production in the region.
A total of 52 participants from various towns and farmers’ associations attended the two-day training, which focused on modern techniques in mango cultivation, pest management, and post-harvest handling. The program aimed to help local farmers improve their harvest, increase fruit quality, and boost their income through better farming practices.
Dr. Rose Mary G. Aquino, Regional Executive Director of DA–Regional Field Office II, expressed her support for the participants and encouraged them to continue adopting new technologies. She emphasized the importance of collaboration among farmers, cooperatives, and government agencies to sustain the growth of the mango industry in Isabela.
“Our mango farmers are vital to the province’s economy. By providing them with the right knowledge and tools, we can ensure a more productive and competitive mango sector,” Aquino said in her message.
During the training, experts from DA-BPI shared updated practices in orchard management, pest and disease control, pruning, flower induction, and fertilizer application. Participants also learned about the importance of proper harvesting and post-harvest handling to maintain the high quality of mangoes for both local and export markets.
The Mango Rehabilitation Program is part of the Department of Agriculture’s broader effort to revive and strengthen the country’s fruit industry. Isabela, one of the top mango-producing provinces in Northern Luzon, has great potential for expansion but faces challenges such as declining yield, pest infestation, and limited access to modern technology.
By introducing science-based farming methods and building stronger farmer networks, DA-BPI aims to restore productivity in existing mango orchards and ensure sustainable livelihoods for growers. The training also encouraged participants to share their concerns and suggestions for future support programs.
Many farmers expressed appreciation for the initiative, saying the training gave them practical knowledge that they can apply immediately in their orchards. With renewed hope and skills, they aim to produce sweeter and higher-quality mangoes that can compete in both local and international markets.
Through continuous learning and government support, the farmers of Isabela are proving that with the right guidance, the country’s mango industry can once again flourish and bring prosperity to rural communities.
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