In a bid to strengthen garlic production in one of the country’s northernmost towns, Department of Agriculture (DA) Assistant Secretary for Operations and National Rice Program Director U-Nichols Manalo, along with DA Region 02 Regional Executive Director Dr. Rose Mary G. Aquino, engaged in a dialogue with the Itbayat Garlic Producers Association (IGPA) on May 21, 2025.

The dialogue aimed to address key challenges and explore opportunities to enhance garlic production, storage, and marketing in the island municipality. Among the concerns raised were the lack of proper storage facilities, limited market access, and factors affecting yield.

Asec. Manalo underscored the potential of using boron as a key nutrient to improve garlic bulb quality and yield highlighting its significance in meeting the rising demand for locally grown garlic beyond Batanes.

Discussions also focused on the registration of Itbayat garlic with the National Seed Industry Council (NSIC) to enhance its recognition and commercial value. Expansion of production areas and logistical support for storage and transport were likewise tackled to improve its competitiveness in larger markets.

Director Aquino reaffirmed the DA Region 02’s commitment to local garlic farmers, citing ongoing collaboration with local government units to support both marketing and production.

Also present at the dialogue were DA RFO 02 OIC-Chief of the Field Operations Division and concurrent Regional Rice Program Coordinator Dr. Marvin Luis, DA-Batanes Experiment Station staff, Glyza Mae Baldomar and Joan Blanca, Itbayat Mayor Sabas De Sagon, Municipal Agriculturist Donabel Gulaga, and IGPA President Ansbert Salengua.

Through its support, the DA hopes to boost garlic farming and give better income opportunities to farmers in remote areas like Itbayat.