Benguet frost won’t affect vegetable supply in metro – DA

MANILA, Philippines – Despite frosting in Benguet caused by temperatures falling to 9 degrees Celsius, there’s enough domestic supply of upland vegetables, the agriculture department said.

“Frosting or the formation of ice crystals is a regular episode in these high altitude areas, so farmers know what to do,” Marilyn Sta Catalina, Department of Agriculture-Cordillera Administrative Region director, explained.

Frosting or “andap” is the formation of ice crystals on plants. It can leave affected crops wilted as the sun melts the frozen moisture. To prevent this, it is important for farmers to immediately water their affected crops. The extreme cold can also leave the crops brownish until they die.

“These normal occurrences have taught Cordillera farmers mitigation measures such as water sprinkling,” Sta Catalina said. Because they have adjusted their planting schedules, they were able to harvest most of their crops ahead of the frost, she added.

Despite the safeguards, the DA is eyeing alternative sources of upland vegetables for Metro Manila such as Nueva Vizcaya and Quirino provinces, to keep prices stable.

Benguet Province produces nearly three-fourths of Metro Manila’s supply of semi-temperate vegetables. These include beans, carrots, cabbage, lettuce, pechay and potatoes. – Rappler.com