International floriculture confab brings up RP flora industry

The floriculture industry was nudged toward further growth with an international conference on its sustainability in Asia.

Held on Feb. 24–25 at the Manila Hotel, the conference identified the industry’s opportunities for growth in the international markets and analyzed the local industry’s strengths and weaknesses.

Experts from the United States, Australia, Thailand, Malaysia, and South Korea discussed the latest world market trends, including new packaging technologies, market options, and international regulations.

With more than 150 participants coming from as far as South Africa attending the event, the conference served as a venue for networking and learning exchange.

PCARRD-DOST’s Dr. Jocelyn E. Eusebio, director of the Crops Research Division, presented the status of and strategic plans for the Philippine ornamental horticulture industry.

In her presentation, she spoke of the need for a year-round production and supply of globally competitive ornamentals for the lucrative local and foreign markets.

A session focused on the Philippine species of orchids, ferns, palms, hoyas, and alocasias, as well as hybrids of hibiscus and spathoglottis, emphasizing on their potentials for export.

The conference was one of the major highlights of the Flora Filipina Expo held from Feb. 23 to Mar. 6 in Intramuros, Manila.

The Los Baños Orchid Society, together with PCARRD-DOST, the Department of Agriculture, the Asian Productivity Organization, Black and Decker, the Philippine Orchid Society, and the Philippine Horticultural Society, sponsored the event. (Ma. Rowena M. Baltazar, S&T Media Service)