To support the growth of the local durian industry, the Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center (ATI-RTC) in Davao Region participated as an exhibitor in the first ever Philippine Asia Durian Summit held at the SMX Convention Center in Lanang, Davao City, on October 25-27, 2023.
Food and non-food products from Learning Sites for Agriculture (LSA) were featured at the ATI's booth. Visitors also received free reading materials related to durian and other crops.
The summit brought together a diverse group of stakeholders from both the government and private sectors, aiming to explore potential partnerships and strategies to increase durian production. It was hosted by the Durian Industry Association of Davao City (DIADC).
The summit also aimed to assist and gather durian enthusiasts and farmers' associations by providing them with a high-traffic venue to showcase and market their durian products, not only to local buyers but also to Asian durian-producing countries like Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia.
During the event, DIADC President Emmanuel Belviz stated, "This achievement represents a significant milestone for our industry and stands as a testament to the immense potential of the durian market. Guided by the overarching theme of 'Cultivation, Innovation, and Collaboration,' we embark on this collective journey driven by a shared purpose and vision."
Furthermore, the participants engaged in presentations and discussions covering a broad and diverse range of subjects, with topics ranging from durian cultivation techniques to market trends and innovations related to durian-based products.
Other discussions included subjects such as Proper Nursery Management and Regulation, presented by Aurora De Guzman, Chief of the Plant Material Section at the Bureau of Plant and Industry; Market Opportunities of Philippine Durian to China, Fresh & Frozen by Ana GM Abejuela, Agriculture Counsellor to the People's Republic of China; and Biocontrol: An Approach for Safe and Zero Residue Food Production by Seh Cheng Siang, Technical Manager for Asia Pacific.
According to the organizers, this summit served as the initial step toward a future full of prospects and advancements in the field of durian. As durian continues to draw attention from across the globe, this event was also considered as a turning point for the Philippine durian industry.
