In a sweet step forward for the agriculture sector, Abuyog, Leyte is set to welcome a PHP6-million jackfruit processing center dedicated to the world’s sweetest jackfruit—the Eastern Visayas Integrated Agricultural Research Center (EVIARC) variety. The facility, funded by the Department of Agriculture (DA), broke ground on July 10 in the New Pilar Community, Tinalian village, and is expected to be completed by December 2025 or early January 2026.
Spearheaded by the Abuyog Jackfruit and Tropical Fruits Producers, Inc., the center will enhance the value chain of the region's flagship commodity. “The center is expected to process frozen jackfruit, extending the fruit’s shelf life while preserving its distinctive sweetness and flavor,” said chairperson Jorge Alvero, Jr.
Elevating Local Farming and Market Access
The processing center is poised to uplift the livelihoods of jackfruit growers in Abuyog and neighboring towns. By consolidating produce—including that of non-members of the growers’ association—the center will streamline processing that currently takes place in individual homes.
“We will centralize operations to produce high-quality frozen jackfruit and tap larger markets like Cebu,” Alvero added. The move addresses the challenge of limited storage and consistency, empowering farmers and strengthening market access.
EVIARC Variety: The Sweetheart of Eastern Visayas
At the heart of the initiative is the EVIARC sweet jackfruit, recognized for its rich sweetness, thick yellow fruitlets, aromatic ellipsoid shape, and low latex content. Evaluated over three years using national standards, it boasts an exceptional Brix rating of 25.15, making it possibly the sweetest jackfruit worldwide.
“This center will ensure year-round availability of fresh and frozen jackfruit. It marks a big leap in our efforts to promote high-value crops,” said DA Regional Technical Director Jenny Lyn Almeria.
