LA TRINIDAD’S STRAWBERRY: BALANCING GROWTH, PERSISTENT CHALLENGES

March 8, 2025 Provincial

LA TRINIDAD Benguet

Strawberry farmers in this capital town reported an increase of production, attributing to the sustained support of their local government unit and municipal agriculture office efforts in ensuring quality. Year-to-year, production
per hectare went up from 22.5 metric tons to 23-24 metric tons. In an interview, Nida Organo, the head of the
Municipal Agriculture Office, emphasized the importance of collaboration with farmers. “We are closely working
with the organizations of our strawberry growers to ensure a balanced supply and demand,” Organo said.

This collaboration is crucial for maintaining a stable market. The office focuses on the ‘Sweet Charlie’ variety, which is popular among local farmers, and is also exploring other varieties to diversify options. March marks the peak
harvest season for strawberries, but rainfall can significantly impact yields due to the crop’s sensitivity to wet conditions. Farmers with greenhouses can extend production until June, but continuous rain will shorten the harvest period. The agriculture official said, white strawberries, still in trial stages, are limited in production due to susceptibility to pests and diseases.

As a result, they are priced higher than other varieties, with a minimum price of P1k a kilo. In contrast, red strawberries and other varieties prices range to P 300 to P500 per kilo. The official added, quality significantly
affects strawberry prices. Farmers who adhere to proper size selection can command better prices. Locally, farmers market their produce online, operate stalls, and supply restaurants and coffee shops. On top, farmers face challenges such as spider mite infestations and fusarium wilt, a disease that causes plants to wilt and die.

Despite partnerships with BSU for research and development, a cure or control method for these issues has not been found. Sources of water is also concern, especially during summer. Organo stressed “Projects are underway to
improve water filtration systems, including a potential water source from Pico funded by the Department of Agriculture and the local government”.

Jude Mark Biccay/UB-Intern