To strengthen the implementation of the ube development program in the Visayas, the Philippine Root Crop Research and Training Center (PhilRootcrops), in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Plant Industry High Value Crops Development Program (DA-BPI HVCDP), conducted a field monitoring activity in Region VIII from June 15 to 17, 2026. The activity assessed the establishment, utilization, and initial performance of distributed ube planting materials among farmer-beneficiaries.
From March to May 2026, PhilRootcrops and DA-BPI HVCDP, successfully distributed over 60,000 purple yam (ube) planting materials to at least 60 farmer organizations across Regions VIII and VII (Bohol), benefiting approximately 1,000 farmers.
During the same period, the regional HVCDP of the DA RFO 8 also distributed nearly 20,000 ube planting materials throughout Region VIII. In total, the collaborative distribution efforts reached more than 80,000 purple yam planting materials provided to farmer-beneficiaries.
From Left to Right: Site inspection at Pitahaya Farm and La Granja Farmers and Agri-ventures Association Inc., Tacloban City, Leyte
Through on-site inspections and consultations with farmer-beneficiaries, the monitoring team assessed the establishment and condition of the distributed purple yam seedlings. The team gathered information on their utilization and management while identifying areas that may require further technical assistance to support project implementation and future intervention.
Present during the activity were PhilRootcrops personnel led by Senior Agriculturist Mr. Dioscoro Bolatete, and DA-BPI HVCDP personnel Mr. Patrick Binson Arrojo of Crops Research and Production Support Division (CRPSD), Mr. Ajay Dacara of Internal Audit Unit (IAU), Mr. Josh Aian Antigo and Ms. Krista Rancapero of Information and Computer Section (ICS), and Ms. Maris Urban of Property Office.
This activity is part of the ongoing implementation of the purple yam development program of PhilRootcrops and DA-BPI HVCDP. Through the provision of quality planting materials and continuous technical support, and regular field monitoring, the program seeks to promote sustainable purple yam production, enhance farmers’ activity, and expand livelihood and market opportunities for farming communities.
Philrootcrops and BPI have maintained longstanding partnership in advancing rootcrop research and development. BPI regional stations have served as trial partners under the National Root Crop Cooperative Testing Program, supporting the conduct of national trials before varieties are recommended for wider distribution. The two institutions also collaborate on regulatory initiatives related to rootcrop planting material distribution and nursery establishment, reinforcing their shared commitment to a sustainable and competitive rootcrop industry.
This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goals No.: 2 – Zero Hunger, 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth, 13 – Climate Action, 15 – Life on Land, 17 – Partnerships for the Goals