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Manila Bulletin devider Business devider DA: Plans in place to revitalize local rubber industry

DA: Plans in place to revitalize local rubber industry

Published Jun 18, 2024 06:34 am

The Department of Agriculture (DA) vowed its full support for the revitalization of the rubber industry following its decline in the aftermath of the pandemic.

In a statement, Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr. said the Philippines holds significant potential in the rubber sector, being ranked as the 13th largest producer of natural rubber worldwide.

In 2022, the country contributed one percent to global rubber production, yielding a total output of 109,000 metric tons.

The majority of rubber exports originate from Mindanao, where nearly 98 percent of the 234,600 hectares dedicated to rubber cultivation in 2022 are situated.

However, the value of Philippine rubber and rubber product exports posted a decline in 2022, falling to $278.2 million from $578.3 million in 2021 due to the closure of processing and manufacturing facilities amid Covid-19 mobility restrictions.

To aid in the industry's recovery, the DA is extending support to the Philippine Rubber Research Institute (PRRI) by providing infrastructure and other essential facilities.

During the signing of various agreements between the DA and PRRI, Tiu Laurel assured the government's commitment to fostering a more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive agricultural sector.

“Today, we set a new benchmark in our pursuit toward a brighter tomorrow for rubber farmers," he said.

The agreements include the allocation of a 7.48-hectare property for PRRI's research and development facilities, joint utilization of an existing rubber testing laboratory in Zamboanga Peninsula and extension of PRRI's tenure in the interim office.

These initiatives are crucial steps to provide rubber farmers with necessary resources for advancement, Sec. Tiu Laurel said.

The Philippine Rubber Industry Roadmap for 2023-2028 cites the country's significant potential, ranking it as the 13th largest producer of natural rubber globally.

Tiu Laurel acknowledged the potential for growth of the local rubber industry and its capacity to lift many in Mindanao out of poverty.

"The challenge for PRRI is to actively push for development programs and projects to support the 700,000 rubber growers in the country,” he said.

Despite challenges like the decline in rubber exports, the agriculture chief remains optimistic about the industry's prospects.

“Only when the PRRI succeeds in these initiatives can it ensure a rubber industry that is dynamic, innovative and self-sufficient,” he added.

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Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. Department of Agriculture (DA) RUBBER INSTITUTE
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