With banana production facing declining yields and persistent pest and disease problems, Mindoro State University (MinSU) has partnered with the Victoria Banana Farmers Association (VBFA) to help restore productivity and improve the livelihoods of local growers.
The partnership was formalized through a memorandum of agreement signed on September 22, 2026, for the implementation of the Banana Industry Development and Sustainability Program (BIDSP), which seeks to address longstanding production challenges through technical assistance and sustainable farming practices.
A key component of the program is the establishment of a banana demonstration farm, where farmers will be introduced to improved production methods and agricultural technologies aimed at increasing yields and managing crop diseases.
MinSU will also fund training and capacity-building activities to equip growers with practical skills and technical knowledge needed to improve farm productivity and sustain their operations.
The agreement was signed on behalf of MinSU by Ms. Elisa M. Agoncillo, Director for Extension Services and BIDSP Project Leader, and Mr. Leonel C. Mendoza, OIC-Vice President for Research, Innovation, Technology and Extension. Representing VBFA were its President, Mr. Jimuel F. Gasic, and Secretary, Ms. Anita G. Rabino.
The initiative is expected to strengthen the local banana industry by helping farmers overcome production constraints, adopt more sustainable practices, and improve their income opportunities.
The partnership also expands MinSU's agricultural extension efforts, bringing technical expertise and research-based solutions closer to farming communities in Victoria. (jdtdc)
Photo courtesy | MinSU Extension Office
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