The Department of Agriculture in Davao Region launched a technology demonstration Wednesday to combat Fusarium wilt, a devastating banana disease.

The initiative in Tagum City, Davao del Norte, builds on a successful three-year field trial and involves partnerships with industry stakeholders and local governments.

DA-11 Regional Technical Director Marie Ann Constantino said the project aims for collective action against the widespread agricultural threat.

“This milestone emphasized that having a strong collaboration and unified efforts are essential to sustaining the region’s banana industry,” Constantino said in an interview.

The techno-demo will test different disease management protocols across various field conditions. Partner Tagum Agricultural Development Company Inc. has pledged to share its successful technologies with smallholder farmers. (PNA)