MMSU, Japanese experts to set up ‘experimental’ garlic farms in Ilocos Norte

Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) is setting up experimental garlic farms in Ilocos Norte in partnership with experts from Japan in a bid to expand the province's production of the high-value crop, Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque Jr. said on Saturday.

"The Mariano Marcos State University, partnered with a group of Japanese experts specializing in black garlic, to set up experimental garlic farms in various parts of the province," Roque said in a statement.

He said that with the partnership, "We hope to encourage local farmers to expand their production as the province aims to deliver at least 20 percent (26,000 metric tons) of national market demand."

The Palace official took note that Ilocos Norte is regarded as the leading producer of garlic in the country with an annual production of 6,000 metric tons which covers 1,876 hectares. — Ted Cordero/MDM, GMA News