Ilocos Norte: For a budget-friendly fee of PHP100, a farm in Ilocos Norte is offering visitors the unique experience of harvesting mulberries. Located in the rice farming village of Pasiocan, the farm is owned by Richard Eugenio “Richie” Lamug, a former overseas Filipino worker who worked as an architect for five years in Dubai before returning home to settle with his family.
According to Philippines News Agency, Lamug utilized a piece of land inherited from his parents to establish a mulberry plantation in September 2023, with his wife Mary Grace. Named Enrique’s Great Mulberry Farm after the late Lamug family patriarch, the farm is recognized as the first and largest mulberry farm in Ilocos Norte. It features around 500 well-grown Illinois variety mulberries, attracting tourists for a “pick and pay” experience during the harvest season.
Health experts highlight that mulberries are considered a super fruit due to their health benefits, containing iron, vitamin C, and compounds that help reduce cholesterol and blood sugar levels, as well as lessen cancer risks. While used in Chinese herbal medicine, evidence of their potency remains limited. To ensure that the fruits are fully utilized, Lamug also processes them into mulberry jam and juice, while offering cuttings for sale.
In 2024, the farm’s mulberry concentrate won the champion title in the food category of the annual business concept competition organized by the provincial government of Ilocos Norte’s Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) Office. This program aims to encourage MSMEs to create innovative products using local raw materials, offering cash incentives and mentoring.
Dina Afaga, the municipal tourism officer of Bacarra, stated that the farm is being promoted as an agro-tourism destination, supported by the Department of Tourism. The farm recently hosted participants of the “May-Kan: Find the Juan” program, which highlights the heritage and gastronomy of the Ilocos region. “This platform will allow travel operators to develop tour packages, further promoting sustainable tourism,” Afaga said.
Enrique’s Great Mulberry Farm is currently in the process of securing accreditation as a farm tourism site, with plans to unveil more mulberry products. Conveniently located near Lamug’s residence, the farm is accessible by all types of vehicles and is a short 10-minute drive from downtown Laoag.
