(Photo courtesy : DOT-CAR Office fbpage)
BAGUIO CITY — Cut-flower growers in Benguet are optimistic about meeting the surge in demand for Valentine’s Day and the Panagbenga Festival, citing favorable cold and dry weather conditions that have boosted both the quality and volume of blooms.
Andi Colti, president of the La Trinidad Cut-Flower Growers Association, said farmers across the province have planted early and extensively, ensuring steady harvests not only for February’s peak season but also in the weeks leading to Holy Week.
“Everybody has already planted, and we have a lot of flowers available, especially from open farms,” Colti said in an interview. “The good weather conditions and cold temperatures give us confidence that supply will remain stable even up to Holy Week.”
While growers are dealing with a pest problem that causes leaf rusting in some plants, Colti said the issue has not significantly affected overall production. He stressed that current output is more than enough to cover the needs of local festivities as well as large orders from key markets nationwide.
According to Colti, Panagbenga-related requirements represent only a small portion of Benguet’s total flower output. “The Panagbenga is just a small portion compared to the volume of flowers being transported to Metro Manila and other parts of the country,” he said, noting that most of the festival’s float makers still source their flowers locally, supporting nearby growers.
Rose farmers, in particular, are expected to benefit from strong Valentine’s demand. Colti said many have adopted improved farming techniques and technology to precisely time blooming cycles, ensuring peak harvests between February 13 and 15 when prices are traditionally highest.
With planting schedules on track and weather conditions remaining favorable, Benguet’s flower growers are confident that this year’s Valentine’s Day and Panagbenga season will be marked by ample supply, vibrant blooms, and better income opportunities for farmers in the Cordillera highlands.
