TARO ROOT CROP AMONG THE TOP 10 AGRI-PRODUCT IN NORTHERN SAMAR

April 16, 2024/EUGENE MONTANO ENANO/Catarman Northern Samar--Based on the 2022 data from the Philippine Statistics Authority, taro is ranked among the top 10 agricultural products of Northern Samar.

Gov. Edwin Ongchuan's administration seeks to empower farmers, enhance food security, and promote sustainable agricultural practices, through the implementation of initiatives such as the Taro Propagation Program.  The program cultivated 2,400 "Binti ng Dalaga" Taro varieties at the Provincial Agriculture and Fisheries Extension Center (PAFEC) in Galutan, Catarman, Northern Samar.

Mr. Romeo Paller, Provincial Seed Coordinator and PAFEC (Provincial Agriculture and Fisheries  Extension Center)-In-Charge said, that the product is good for export since there is a foreign market for taro.  Taro is an important source of carbohydrates and vitamins which is a profitable crop that grows well and rapidly without much care. It is used for making various dishes such as cooked vegetables, pudding, bread, chips, and others. 

In addition, some  500 taro plantlets were also planted in Brgy. 1, Catubig, Northern Samar for propagation to farmers, 2,400 for PAFEC, and 700 runners/taro planlets ready for planting for expansion.  Yaro is an important crop for food and income security, especially in the tropical regions, the program contributes to livelihood and sustainable agriculture in Northern Samar.#