A partylist lawmaker has batted for the creation of a research and development facility that would maximize the huge potential of the banana industry and strengthen its global competitiveness.
Because the banana industry is the country’s second biggest dollar-earning agricultural enterprise next to the coconut industry, Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) partylist Rep. Raymond Democrito C. Mendoza urged the government to set up a Banana Research Institute to boost rural development and provide more jobs to poor communities.
“This is what the small growers need most. Funds must be allotted for the research and development programs of the industry. A National Research, Development and Extension Center for Banana (NRDECB) could be created to assist the industry for more advanced and scientific farm operations in such areas such as land preparation, plant breeding, planting, crop-protection, harvesting and processing,” he said in filing House Bill 5221.
“We feel an urgent need for research and development facilities, scientific and environment-friendly interventions,” Mendoza pointed out.
He noted that the Philippine banana industry has been providing livelihood to 320,000 workers and their families since its inception 44 years ago.
The industry pays an average of P30 billion per year for workers’ salaries and wages excluding benefits, he said.
He even attributed the improved peace and order situation in Mindanao to the banana industry which has an annual average foreign exchange earnings amounting to US$720 million. - by Charissa Luci / Manila Bulletin
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