As the vibrant Manggahan Festival unfolds this month of May, a comprehensive strategy spearheaded by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and domestic logistics providers is in full swing to further boost market access for the world famous Guimaras mangoes.
Spearheaded by the DTI’s Supply Chain and Logistics Group (SCLG) and Regional Operations Group (ROG) with Undersecretary Mary Jean Pacheco at the helm, this initiative centers on the theme of inclusive growth and rural development. It unites national and local partners, including the Provincial Government of Guimaras and the Guimaras Mango Growers and Producers Cooperative.
Together, they aim to promote mango industry development, improve logistics, and widen access to domestic and international markets. A key achievement in this endeavor was the signing of the memorandum of understanding with the Philippine Postal Corporation during the Manggahan Festival, held from May 16 to 25.
This will establish a direct-to-consumer logistics channel connecting from Guimaras to Metro Manila. Utilizing QR code ordering and last-mile delivery, this memorandum is expected to provide consumers with access to freshly harvested mangoes, while streamlining the delivery process for small-scale farmers and cooperatives.
“The Guimaras mango’s recognition as the first and only agricultural product in the Philippines with Geographic Indication (GI) status speaks volumes about its quality, heritage, and market potential. The DTI is fully committed to supporting initiatives that protect the authenticity of our local products while enabling them to thrive in modern, competitive markets,” said Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque.
“This milestone reflects President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Bagong Pilipinas agenda—a vision where no farmer is left behind and every Filipino takes pride in our land’s bounty. Bringing Guimaras mangoes from farm to table is more than trade—it’s about honoring tradition, empowering communities, and creating shared prosperity,” the trade chief added.
Building upon these foundational efforts, the DTI is also supporting local enterprises like Guimaras Wonders Farm through strategic partnerships with logistics providers such as Airspeed, helping these businesses explore premium positioning and potential export opportunities. On the global stage, the DTI, through its export promotions arm, the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), is preparing to feature Guimaras mangoes at IFEX Philippines 2025. This international food trade event will spotlight the fruit’s premium attributes to buyers from around the world, with logistics support from FAST Logistics and participation from local farms such as Koko Mojo Mango Farm. Recognizing the growing importance of digital commerce, the DTI has also forged a collaboration with Shopee and LBC Express to bring Guimaras mangoes into the e-commerce ecosystem.
Enabling local mango sellers to onboard the Shopee platform and tap into LBC’s logistics network will facilitate nationwide access to Guimaras mangoes, particularly in areas where fresh produce availability is limited. This convergence of logistics, digitalization, and global promotion—facilitated by the DTI and driven by strong local partnerships—marks a significant chapter in the story of Guimaras mangoes.
By removing market barriers and creating value-added opportunities, the DTI reaffirms its commitment to empowering MSMEs, modernizing agriculture-based industries, and delivering prosperity to the countryside.
