Manila: The Department of Agriculture (DA) anticipates that the recently established United Ube PH Association Inc. will elevate Philippine ube as a leading global export while ensuring increased earnings for local farmers.

According to Philippines News Agency, the association registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) this month as a non-stock, non-profit organization representing the Philippine ube sector. DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. expressed a vision for Philippine ube to become a prominent export commodity, which involves strengthening the industry to meet international demand and ensuring farmers benefit from its value.

The formation of United Ube PH aims to enhance the representation and national identity of the ube sector on the global stage. The government is intensifying efforts to support research and development initiatives for this commodity. Tiu Laurel emphasized that the organization will provide a stronger voice for the ube industry and facilitate a more strategic market approach.

Before the establishment of United Ube PH, Tiu Laurel met with ube industry stakeholders in July to discuss the necessity of forming a unified organization. Currently, the association is working on a bilateral agreement with the DA to enhance cooperation and identify areas for joint intervention.

The group is actively pursuing market and institutional partnerships by engaging with institutional buyers, holding exploratory discussions with business chambers in the Philippines and Germany, and crafting long-term supply and purchase agreements. Additionally, through a membership campaign, United Ube PH is consolidating farmers, processors, traders, exporters, researchers, and other stakeholders across the nation.