Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. showcased Philippine mangoes at the “Serbisyo Caravan” held October 12 in Rome, highlighting their growing international appeal and the country’s export ambitions.
During the event, held alongside the World Food Forum at the UN FAO Headquarters, Secretary Laurel met with Filipino entrepreneurs behind the Philippines’ first fresh mango shipment to Italy, launched in May. The group is eyeing to expand exports to include other fruits like lanzones, rambutan, and dragon fruit, as well as pili nuts and processed goods—despite challenges such as high airfreight costs.
“We’re here to help consolidate premium Filipino produce for export,” Laurel said, aligning the effort with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s push to expand markets, raise farmers’ incomes, and create jobs.
Agriculture Attaché Dr. Josyline Javelosa emphasized the importance of timely government support in helping farmers and overseas businesses thrive, noting the high demand among Filipinos in Italy for authentic Philippine mangoes.
Rome-based importer Dennis Carrascoso, who leads the Philippine Chamber of Commerce in Italy, reported that the mangoes sold out within hours. He credited the strong backing of the Filipino community and support from the Philippine Embassy in Rome, led by Ambassador Neal Imperial.
Laurel also promoted investment opportunities in Philippine agriculture, spotlighting mangoes under the FAO’s “One Country, One Priority Product” initiative, alongside abaca, bamboo, and seaweed.
The Serbisyo Caravan, led by the Department of Migrant Workers, offered Filipinos in Italy access to key government services including SSS, PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG, and National ID registration. First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos also visited the event to support Filipino vendors and workers.
