DAVAO — The Department of Agriculture Davao Region supported the send-off of the first export shipment of Frozen Whole Steamed Saba bound for Australia on September 22, 2026. The initial batch of 7,000 kilograms was processed by Golden Flavours.
A Historic First Export
The shipment marks a milestone for Davao's agribusiness sector. The Cardava bananas used are harvested at 90 to 100 percent maturity, then blast-frozen at -18°C. This process gives the product a shelf life of up to one year.
The frozen steamed saba will sail on October 3, 2026, with a tentative arrival in Australia on November 3. This first export opens a new market for processed Philippine bananas and demonstrates the potential of value-added agricultural products.
Meeting Global Demand for Filipino Flavors
DA-11 Regional Technical Director for Operations Marie Ann M. Constantino emphasized the importance of opening markets for local commodities. She said the initiative responds to demand for Filipino food products overseas while giving farmers more earning opportunities.
Constantino noted that Filipinos abroad crave the familiar taste of home. By exporting processed saba, the country satisfies that demand while creating livelihood opportunities for farmers. She added that market access strengthens rural incomes and increases the value of local produce.
Benefiting Farmers and IP Communities
Golden Flavours General Manager Razel Ann Suy Tan said the project maximizes locally available agricultural commodities. It also creates direct livelihood opportunities for Indigenous Peoples communities in the Davao Region.
Tan explained that the effort provides a steady market for IP farmers while ensuring they become part of the value chain. Developing processed products from local crops creates a more stable market and helps communities earn sustainable incomes from their harvests.
A Springboard from International Expo
The export initiative is a direct offshoot of the SIE Sabbah International Expo 2026. That event provided local agribusiness stakeholders with opportunities to explore international markets and establish business connections.
Through AMAD, DA-11 continues to connect local commodities to wider markets. The agency encourages value-adding activities that generate additional opportunities for producers and communities. This first shipment is expected to pave the way for more exports of processed Cardava bananas.
Expanding Market Opportunities
The first export shipment opens doors for more processed banana products in Australia and beyond. It also highlights the potential of Davao Region as a source of high-quality agricultural exports.
DA-11 remains committed to supporting initiatives that link farmers to global markets. By strengthening the value chain, the agency aims to boost rural livelihoods and promote sustainable agricultural development across the region.
