From mere producers to processors, rubber farmers from North Cotabato are now part of the value chain for locally produced motorcycle tires.
On May 10, 2019, local rubber growers from North Cotabato City witnessed the formal launching of motorcycle tires, branded as Pilipinas Agila Tires, at the Balindog Research and Experiment Station in Kidapawan City.
It can be recalled that in 2017, the Department of Agriculture (DA) organized the Philippine Rubber Farmers Cooperative (PRFC) to produce rubber raw materials to be processed by Leo Tire Manufacturing in Valenzuela.
“This is the way to go. We cannot resolve the low prices of raw materials if we do not learn how to process. We should complete the market chain from production, processing, and marketing which is the concept of Pilipinas Agila Tires,” Secretary Manny Piñol said.
Taking small yet brave steps, the production of 300×17 motorcycle tires commonly used for Habal-habal motorcycles will be increased.
Habal-habal is an improvised version of motorcycle designed to carry several passengers or goods in hard to reach places in the province is a promising market of these tires as they are basically on the road everyday. The Habal-habal drivers who attended the formal ceremonies expressed their delight and excitement over locally produced tire which will soon be made available in their province.
Piñol said that after a steady market and demand is established, the group plans to eventually produce bigger tire sizes for multi-cabs and pick-up trucks in the near future.
“Let us take things slowly and surely. We must ensure that a constant and steady market is made before we explore other ventures,” Piñol stressed during the launching ceremony.
The tires will be showcased in motorcycle shops and gasoline stations around the province, and will be sold at a lower price compared to its competitors.
“We will make sure that it will be better if not the same quality as the commercial tires available in the market,” Piñol said.
Two hundred samples of Pilipinas Agila Tires were raffled off during the event. Winners will serve as product testers who will provide feedback on the product’s durability and performance so that necessary adjustments and modifications can be made.
“This is the canvass of my dream for the Philippine agriculture where farmers are also the processors and marketers of their products, and free from the traders who dictate the prices of their produce,” Piñol added. ### (Carlos Cezar Baldosa, DA-AFID)
