THE Department of Agriculture (DA) said it promoted Philippine mangoes to Italian importers, hoping to establish an initial niche with the Filipino community in Italy and expanding to other exotic Philippine fruit.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr. visited mango sellers at the “Serbisyo Caravan” in Rome, noting the potential for Philippine goods to “make a grand entrance on the global stage.”
Rome-based Agriculture Attache Josyline C. Javelosa was quoted in the statement as saying that strategic government support at international events helps sustain Philippine products’ commercial presence.
Ms. Javelosa said the plan for mango is to establish a foothold with the Filipino community in Rome, which “craves the authentic flavor, texture, aroma, and quality that only Philippine mangoes can deliver, something that cheaper alternatives just can’t match.”
Philippine Trade and Investment Center Chairman Dennis Carrascoso said the mangoes sold out “within a few hours” aided only by word-of-mouth.
Italian importers are currently planning to expand to other Philippine commodities like lanzones (lansium domesticum) and pili nuts. — Andre Christopher H. Alampay