Date Posted 13 May 2024

The Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) recently launched the first-ever Bt Cotton Harvest Festival at the Batac Research Center I, Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU), Batac City, Ilocos Norte on May 07, 2024, marking a historic milestone in the country’s agriculture sector. The festival celebrated the successful commercial harvest of Bt cotton, a variety resistant to the destructive cotton bollworm.  With this resistance, farmers can expect an increase in yield from 1MT to 3MT ensuring a stable supply of locally produced cotton yarns for our weavers. The revitalization of the local cotton industry is a significant leap towards achieving the goals of Bagong Pilipinas.

The festival was packed with engaging activities attended by numerous guests from national and local government agencies, academe, researchers, students, weavers, and cotton farmers. The Inspirational messages and addresses from esteemed guests such as Hon. Albert D. Chua, City Mayor of Batac delightedly welcomed all the guests and participants to the said festival while PhilFIDA OIC-Executive Director Evelyn B. Cagasan emphasized the significance of the event. Distinguished guests including Hon. Cecilia Araneta-Marcos, Vice-Governor of Ilocos Norte, Dr. Shirley Agrupis, President of MMSU, DA Assistant Secretary for Legislative Affairs, DLLO, and Consumer Affairs, Atty. Genevieve Velicaria Guevarra, OIC-Regional Technical Director for Research and Regulations, Dr. Florentino Adame, and the former National Cotton Coordinator, Dr. Edison C. Rinen, conveyed messages of support and optimism for the future of the cotton industry. A message from Senator Loren Legarda was also presented, adding to the event’s depth and resonance. The festival was further enlivened by the joyful performance of the Pinili Dance Group. 

The event was highlighted by the ceremonial harvesting of cotton, symbolizing the resilience and potential of the local agriculture sector. In closing, Director Edel Dondonilla of PhilFIDA Regional Office I reflected on the significance of collaborative efforts in driving progress in the fiber industry. The festival celebrated not only the successful commercial harvest of Bt cotton but also shed light on its advantages and its pivotal role in improving crop yield, consequently raising farmers’ income. PhilFIDA is optimistic about the commercial propagation of this Bt cotton, envisioning it as a catalyst for the revival of the Philippine cotton industry.