Biotechnology has been making its mark in the nutriceutical industry through the processing of natural ingredients. In demand in the market are malunggay or horse-radish tree (Moringa oleifera Lamk.) and atsuete or Annatto (Bixa orillana Linn.).

One of the programs of the Department of Agricuture (DA) aimed to promote biotechnology enterprises and livelihood opportunities is BioCommerce.

BioCommerce helps boost local economies by encouraging collaboration among stakeholders at the grassroots levels. It also intends to create jobs, increase productive lands, and empower the grassroots.

During the 1st BIONet National Congress held on 2 April 2007, the DA, National Nutrition Council, BIONet leaders, concerned LGUs, and Secura International Corporation, a local biotechnology company signed a Memorandum of Understanding on the BIONet and BioCommerce on malunggay and atsuete.

A consortium for malunggay consisting of BIONets in Laguna, Quezon, Negros Oriental, and Regions 1 and 2 was developed targeting 3,000 hectares of land for malunggay leaves. A business cooperation on atsuete production was likewise established in Laguna, Quezon, and CAR to meet the demand for 15,000 hectares of atsuete. By becoming part of the consortia, farmers have the opportunity to supply natural ingredients to several biotechnology companies around the world.

Laguna has committed to allot 375 hectares of land for malunggay and 390 hectares of atsuete while Quezon has committed 300 hectares of malunggay and 700 hectares of atsuete.

Malunggay is one of the world’s most useful and nutritious plants. Its leaves are an excellent source of Vitamins A and B, and minerals such as calcium and iron.

Meanwhile, atsuete is used to color soups, enhance the flavor of a dish, and used to dye textiles.

DA Assistant Secretary for Planning and Policy Josyline C. Javelosa said that the Philippines would have a distinct advantage and higher market share in the global market with the commitment of the scientific community to promote biotechnology products and the pledge of companies to market natural ingredients and processed biotechnology products.

For more information, please contact:

Ms. Sonny P. Tababa
Network Administrator
Biotechnology Information Center
SEAMEO SEARCA
College, Laguna 4031
Email: spt at agri.searca.org
Tel: (63-49)536-7163
Tele/Fax: (63-49)536-7162
URL: www.bic.searca.org