Philippine mangoes took center stage Oct. 12 at the “Serbisyo Caravan” in Rome, Italy.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. made a special stop at the mango booth during World Food Forum events at the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) headquarters, where he met Filipino entrepreneurs behind the country’s first commercial shipment of fresh mangoes to Italy.
“We’re here to help consolidate premium Filipino produce for export,” Tiu Laurel said, linking the initiative to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s goal of expanding markets, raising farmers’ incomes and creating more jobs at home.
Philippine mango exporters began their pioneering venture in May 2025, bringing a taste of home to the growing Filipino community in Europe.
Their success with mangoes has inspired them to explore exports of other Philippine fruits such as lanzones, rambutan, dragon fruit and pili nuts, as well as processed delicacies, though high airfreight costs remain a continuing challenge.
Agriculture attaché Josyline Javelosa, who has been assisting the group, noted that targeted and time-bound government interventions can strengthen the supply chain between Filipino producers and overseas markets.
“The Filipino community in Rome craves the authentic flavor, texture, aroma and quality that only Philippine mangoes can deliver—something that cheaper alternatives just can’t match,” she said.
Philippine Chamber of Commerce Italy Chairman Dennis Carrascoso reported that their fresh mangoes sold out within hours of arrival.
He credited the strong support of the Filipino community and lauded the Philippine Embassy in Rome, led by Ambassador Neal Imperial, for their assistance in promoting Philippine produce in Italy.
The Serbisyo Caravan, spearheaded by the Department of Migrant Workers, also provided vital public services for Filipinos in Italy, including assistance from the Philippine Embassy, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), Social Security System (SSS), PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG Fund and National ID registration.
First lady Liza Araneta Marcos also visited the event, expressing support for Filipino food vendors and overseas workers in attendance.
