The Sustainable Potato Program, a project run by Universal Robina Corp (URC) and the Philippine government, provided a valuable boost to the country’s tuber growers, bolstering the industry through the disruptions during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Through the program, URC imported Granola potato seeds from Canada for the farming communities in Benguet, Mt Province, Bukidnon, and Davao del Sur.
Last year, the company was able to donate up to of 135 tons potato seeds imported from Canada to over 1,000 farmers.
“These were really quality seeds, and have been a big help for us,” said Ardan Copas, head of the United Potato Cooperative in Benguet, cited by Fruitnet. “Despite the pandemic, we were able to produce a million kilos, thanks to this program.”
Cooperatives participating in the program have also received quality training, as well as access to the latest research and technology on potato farming.
In 2019, a group of farmers went on a five-day course in Canada as part of URC’s collaboration with the Prince Edwards Island Potato Board.
There, they learned new techniques on seeding and planting, soil management, storage, and other key practices.
