Villar hears bill developing malunggay industry

Sen. Cynthia A. Villar presided over a public hearing on bills seeking to create a framework to serve as a guide to the formulation and implementation of plans, programs, and projects for the production, marketing, processing, and distribution of moringa or malunggay for food and commercial needs.

Villar, chairperson of the Committee on Agriculture, Food, and Agrarian Reform, noted that moringa, a plant often referred to as the “miracle tree,” for its exceptional nutritional and medicinal properties, has long been a part of the country’s culinary and cultural heritage.

“It is a source of sustenance for many of our communities, particularly in rural areas, where it serves as a vital food source. However, the potential of moringa extends far beyond our borders. Its rich nutritional profile, which includes high levels of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, positions it as a superfood with significant market potential in the global health and wellness industry,” Villar said on Wednesday, December 4, 2024.

Senate Bill Nos. 1255 and 2713, authored by Sen. Imee Marcos, and Villar respectively, aim to capitalize on this potential by establishing a structured approach to the development of the moringa industry. Villar said through coordinated planning, research, and support for local farmers, this bill seeks to enhance the production and quality of moringa products. Furthermore, it will create a robust export promotion strategy, positioning the country as a leading supplier of moringa products in the international market. (CESAR MORALES)