A JAPANESE company and a state university in Ilocos Norte in northern Philippines have partnered to pilot a project on garlic cultivation and processing technology, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) announced.
Under JICA’s private-public partnership (PPP) promotion program, Japanese firm Takara, Inc. and Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) are working together to boost garlic production.
“This partnership between Takara and MMSU is part of our endeavor for PPP promotion that brings win-win relationships between the Philippines and Japanese companies,” Sakamoto Takema, chief representative of JICA Philippines, said in a statement on Monday.
“This means the Japanese private sector introduces innovative and unique technology and know-how to the Philippines and in return, they learn about new promising markets and are stimulated for future investments,” he said.
JICA said that Takara is in Aomori prefecture, which is known for producing 70% of Japan’s garlic supply.
“The project will contribute to enhancing the partnership between the Ilocos Norte and Aomori which are equally acknowledged as the garlic capitals of the Philippines and Japan, respectively,” JICA said.
“This path-breaking cooperation will play an important role in boosting agriculture development, public-private partnership, job creation and income generation for farmers in the Philippines. Moreover, it will also promote a healthy lifestyle among consumers,” Mr. Takema added. — Luisa Maria Jacinta C. Jocson