By Kenneth Marcos 
Under the heat of the Ilocos sun, rows of tobacco leaves stretch across the fields as farmers carefully tend their crops. For many families in the region, tobacco farming remains a key source of income. This week, these familiar scenes drew attention from international visitors looking to learn from the Philippine experience.
A delegation from Zimbabwe visited Ilocos Sur on March 18, 2026, to study the country’s tobacco industry model. The group aims to explore how the Philippines supports its farmers and strengthens its tobacco value chain, with the goal of applying similar strategies in their own country.
The visit, held in Vigan City, was led by senior Zimbabwean official Willard L. Manungo. The delegation was hosted by the National Tobacco Administration (NTA), which presented its programs on research, production, and farmer support. Officials shared how science-based approaches and government policies have helped improve productivity and sustain farmer incomes.
NTA Administrator Belinda S. Sanchez said the exchange highlighted opportunities for both countries to work together, especially in research and development. She emphasized the importance of innovation in maintaining a competitive tobacco industry while ensuring that farmers benefit from improved practices.
One area that caught the attention of the Zimbabwean delegation was the Philippines’ germplasm research program. This initiative focuses on developing better tobacco varieties that can produce higher yields and resist pests and diseases. Deputy Administrator Nestor C. Casela noted that Zimbabwe expressed strong interest in possible collaboration on this program.
During their visit, the delegation toured tobacco farms across Ilocos Sur. They observed the production of Virginia, Burley, and native tobacco, as well as curing and post-harvest processes. The group also visited a buying station and a processing facility in Candon City, known as one of the country’s main tobacco trading centers.
Discussions also covered the Philippines’ excise tax system on tobacco, particularly Republic Acts 7171 and 8240. These laws allocate a portion of tobacco tax revenues to support farmers through infrastructure projects, farm inputs, and livelihood programs. Zimbabwe is studying this model as it seeks to strengthen its own tobacco sector and improve farmer welfare.
Agriculture experts say that knowledge-sharing between countries plays an important role in improving global farming practices. By learning from each other’s experiences, nations can develop more efficient systems that support both production and sustainability.
For Filipino tobacco farmers, the visit is a sign that their practices and systems are being recognized internationally. It also highlights the importance of continued support, innovation, and responsible management in maintaining the industry’s growth.
As global demand and market conditions continue to change, partnerships like this may open new opportunities for collaboration. Strengthening research, improving farmer support, and sharing proven strategies can help build more resilient agricultural sectors in both countries.
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