DAVAO CITY, Philippines (September 8, 2025) — The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) has renewed its strategic partnership with the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) to advance sustainable agricultural development in Mindanao, with a strong focus on durian production and farmer empowerment.
The reaffirmation was made during KOICA’s courtesy visit to MinDA, led by KOICA Philippines Country Director Mr. JUNG Young Sun, and hosted by MinDA Secretary Leo Tereso A. Magno. The meeting highlighted the progress of ongoing initiatives and mapped out future directions to strengthen durian producer cooperatives and promote eco-friendly farming practices across the region.
Secretary Magno expressed his appreciation for KOICA’s continued support, underscoring how the collaboration equips Mindanao farmers with modern technologies, sustainable practices, and expanded market access. “KOICA’s partnership is instrumental in building Mindanao’s agricultural competitiveness while contributing to food security and inclusive growth,” Magno said.
The partnership is anchored on the project “Sustainable Agricultural Environment Establishment through Durian Producer Cooperative Organization in Mindanao, Philippines (2023–2025),” implemented by the Center for Asian Mission for the Poor Asia (CAMP Asia) with KOICA funding.
During the visit, KOICA officials and MinDA reviewed several key interventions, including cooperative strengthening, organic fertilizer trials, technical capacity-building, frozen durian production pilots, and branding strategies aimed at boosting the industry’s international competitiveness. The initiative also fosters collaboration among government agencies, academic institutions, and private sector players.
For his part, KOICA Country Director JUNG reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to deepen cooperation with MinDA and local stakeholders, ensuring the sustainability of the project and the long-term benefits to farmers.
The initiative supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s thrust to modernize Philippine agriculture, empower rural communities, and enhance food security through international cooperation. It also complements the Philippine Development Plan 2023–2028, which identifies Mindanao as a key driver of national growth.
As part of MinDA’s broader “Building a Better Mindanao” vision, the renewed partnership with KOICA seeks to transform Mindanao into a resilient, globally competitive agricultural hub while uplifting the lives of farming communities.