Zimbabwe delegation studies Ilocos tobacco industry for research collaboration
A delegation of government officials from Zimbabwe visited tobacco farms across the Ilocos region from March 7 to 15 to conduct a benchmarking activity focused on enhancing cooperation in tobacco research and industry development.
The eight-member group paid a courtesy visit to the National Tobacco Administration (NTA) central office on March 9, where they were welcomed by Administrator and CEO Belinda S. Sanchez. The visit formed part of efforts to exchange knowledge and explore potential partnerships between the Philippines and Zimbabwe in the tobacco sector.
Leading the delegation was Secretary Willard L. Manungo of Zimbabwe’s Office of the President and Cabinet and co-chair of the National Economic Consultative Forum (NECF) steering committee. He was joined by Acting NECF Executive Secretary Muzi Muzite and other key officials representing tobacco marketing, research, agriculture, and economic planning sectors.
During their visit to the NTA, the delegation received an overview of the Philippine tobacco industry, including its value chain and ongoing development programs. They also toured laboratory facilities used to analyze nicotine content in tobacco products.
NTA Deputy Administrator for Operations Nestor C. Casela noted that Zimbabwean officials showed strong interest in collaborating on germplasm research aimed at improving local tobacco varieties.
The group also met with representatives from the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Trade and Industry to discuss possible areas of cooperation.
As part of their itinerary, the delegation visited tobacco farms in Sta. Maria, Burgos, Narvacan, and Nagbukel in Ilocos Sur. They observed flue-cured Virginia tobacco crops, as well as harvesting and curing methods, and toured Native and Burley tobacco plantations.
The farm visits were facilitated by NTA Deputy Administrator for Support Services Benedicto M. Savellano.
Additional activities included a visit to a tobacco buying station in Candon City, a courtesy call on local officials, and a tour of a tobacco processing facility. In Candon City—known for producing high-quality Virginia tobacco—the delegation learned about programs that reinvest tobacco revenues into farmer support, community services, and local development initiatives.
Discussions also highlighted the importance of tobacco farming to the local economy and the Philippine government’s support for farmers through excise tax laws. These measures allocate a portion of tobacco tax revenues to producing regions, funding infrastructure, equipment, and livelihood programs.
Zimbabwe, one of the world’s top tobacco producers and the largest in Africa, is looking to strengthen its industry through international collaboration and knowledge exchange.
NPO News Team | DA Press Ofiice - PR
