Ilocos Norte is testing Taiwan garlic cultivation in various towns to enhance local production using advanced farming techniques. Chonito Baldovi, coordinator of the Provincial Agriculture Office’s high value crops development program, said land preparations are underway for planting at least three Taiwan garlic varieties in demonstration farms across Badoc, Paoay, San Nicolas, Bacarra, Burgos, Pasuquin, Piddig, and Bangui, with planting starting next week.
The project, in collaboration with the Taiwan International Cooperation and Development Fund (ICDF), Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU), and the Ilocos Norte provincial government, will feature Harmonous, Block Buster, and Hanbao varieties. These garlic types offer unique benefits, such as early maturing with a mild flavor, bulbs up to 40 grams, and smooth leaves when cooked. The first trial was conducted earlier this year in Pasuquin.
To revitalize the garlic industry, the Provincial Agriculture Office, MMSU, and partners are focusing on research, modern planting methods, tissue culture propagation, and black garlic processing. Ilocos Norte remains the country’s top garlic producer, contributing 74 percent of the national output at an average of 4,376 metric tons annually.
The province aims to expand cultivation areas to achieve yields of at least five tons per hectare, producing healthier and larger bulbs.