The Philippines is recognized as one of the world’s key pineapple producers, securing its title both as the world’s second-largest producer and exporter of pineapple with more than 2.9 million metric tons (mt) of pineapple produced in 2023 and 582,536 t exported in 2022. However, the local industry faces several challenges, such as vulnerability to insect pests and diseases, climate change, and limited access to advanced farming technologies.
In pursuit of a more sustainable pineapple production, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) through the DOST-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD), supported the 1st International Congress on Pineapple for Sustainable and Resilient Production (ICoP) 2024. It was organized by the Camarines Norte State College (CNSC) and PhilFruits Association, Incorporated (PFA) in Daet, Camarines Norte.
“The increasing world demand for pineapple comes with a corresponding need to continuously pursue research and development (R&D) initiatives as we aim to secure the Philippines' position in global pineapple export. DOST is committed to leading innovative efforts on pineapple to ensure that our pineapple industry can overcome challenges and sustainably provide premium quality pineapples around the globe,” said DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr.
Themed, “Technologies and Innovations for Sustainable and Responsible Development of Pineapple Industry,” ICoP 2024 served as a global platform where key pineapple industry players gained meaningful exchanges of knowledge, explored science and technology (S&T) innovations, and forged strategic solutions to critical challenges faced by the industry.
DOST Undersecretary for Research and Development (R&D) Leah J. Buendia, as one of the keynote speakers, recognized the significance of this event, lauding the event for being a venue to empower the Philippine pineapple industry.
“As we look into the future, it is imperative that our efforts align with the principles of sustainable and responsible development. Our research outputs should be felt by the Filipinos.,” said USec Buendia.
During the plenary session, DOST-PCAARRD’s Crops Research Division (CRD) Director Leilani D. Pelegrina presented the research breakthroughs of the Industry Strategic S&T Program (ISP) for Queen Pineapple and expressed the Council’s strong commitment to support initiatives to advance a modernized, competitive, and sustainable fruit industry.
The event included scientific sessions, poster presentations, a farmer’s forum, and an exhibit.
Also present during the event were DOST-PCAARRD’s ISP Manager for Queen Pineapple Kimberly Zarah B. Locsin, who served as a panelist in the scientific session, together with key CRD personnel.
