PANABO CITY, DAVAO DEL NORTE—Davao Region continues to lead the durian industry in the country. Thus, to boost competitiveness and sustainability, and ensure it meets the highest standards, ATI-RTC XI conducted a comprehensive training program on Durian Production, Postharvest Handling, and Marketing on March 17–21, 2025.
Thirty (30) Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) and farmers across the region were equipped with cutting-edge techniques, innovations, and business strategies to enhance durian quality, reduce postharvest losses, and improve market reach.
The five-day training featured Mr. Virgilio Loquias, a retired Supervising Agriculturist from the Bureau of Plant Industry XI, as one of the key resource persons. He delivered comprehensive lectures covering various topics such as durian cultivars and their characteristics, soil and climatic requirements, orchard establishment and management, as well as harvesting, postharvest handling, and storage techniques.
Mr. Loquias also facilitated hands-on sessions and practical demonstrations on identifying common insect pests and diseases and their management. Participants engaged in field exercises such as lay-outing, holing, planting, fertilizer application, pruning, and disease control—allowing them to directly apply the knowledge they acquired.
“We need to provide the necessary requirements for durian plants to grow and produce to their full potential—it begins with good quality planting material, favorable soil and climate, proper nutrition, pest and disease control, and of course, tender love and care,” emphasized Mr. Loquias.
Ms. Fe Oguio, Agriculturist II from the Davao City Agriculture Office, addressed the marketing aspect. She highlighted the significance of producing high-quality durian to meet consumer expectations and access premium markets.
“Durian marketing is not just about selling a fruit; it's about cultivating a global appreciation for a unique and valuable commodity,” Ms. Oguio said.
She highlighted how effective marketing not only boosts demand and farmer income but also supports the development of durian-based value-added products—such as frozen durian, snacks, and desserts—that cater to a wider range of consumer preferences.
Beyond classroom lectures, participants visited two GAP-certified farms in Calinan, Davao City: D’Farmers Market Fruits and Pastries and Belviz Farm. These visits provided first-hand learning on best practices in nursery establishment, farm operations, pest and disease management, postharvest handling, and marketing.
The group also toured the Engseng Group of Companies, a major player in agricultural exports in Davao City, observing how durian is prepared for export—from quality control and packaging to shipping and adherence to stringent food safety regulations. The visit demonstrated how local produce can successfully meet international standards, connecting Davao’s farmers to global markets.
Through this real-world exposure, this initiative serves as a pillar to improving the durian industry in the region. With teamwork and continuous learning, Davao's durian can reach more markets and bring more benefits to local farmers.
This training is Professional Regulation Commission accredited and participants earned a total of 15 Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points in agriculture.
Contributor: Mariza M. Mating
