IBA, Zambales—The provincial government of Zambales is ramping up efforts to strengthen its mango industry through the integration of modern farming technologies and targeted capacity-building programs designed to increase yield and sustainability.
Central to this push is the Zambales Mango Green Valley Project, the province’s flagship agricultural initiative now in its second phase. Spearheaded by the Zambales Mango Industry Council and other local partners, the project aims to rehabilitate 20,800 mango trees through advanced farm management, improved fertilization, and upgraded irrigation systems.
With a P40-million investment, the province is targeting to elevate yields from the current 2.3 metric tons per hectare to match the national average of 12 metric tons. “We’re aiming for both quantity and quality to enhance competitiveness,” said Technical Working Group Head Domingo Mariano.
The program is being carried out in partnership with the Provincial Agriculture Office, President Ramon Magsaysay State University, and the Samahan ng Magmamangga ng Zambales (SMZ). Last December, SMZ received P6.4 million under a conditional assistance program for activities such as flower induction, chemical application, irrigation, and harvesting in pilot areas.
Phase 3 of the initiative, set for 2026, will focus on propagating the Guinness-recognized Sweet Elena mango. Plans also include the establishment of a mango training center and post-harvest facility, branding and export development, and greenhouse-based cultivation, underscoring Zambales’ commitment to building a globally competitive mango industry.