This September issue of a magazine tells the story of ube's transformation from a local Filipino ingredient into an internationally recognized product. It features the case study of Lunti at Lila Co., a farm in Pangasinan founded by two college friends, Edward and Jacob, who started planting ube on 3.5 hectares and expanded to 12 hectares. The article covers their farming methods, including…
This is a magazine issue that examines how ube, a purple root crop from the Philippines, became a global economic phenomenon. It is written for readers interested in agriculture, marketing, sustainable development, and Filipino culture. The issue connects ube's rise to Sustainable Development Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.
The first feature profiles Lunti at Lila Co., a farm in Pangasinan started by two college friends, Edward and Jacob. They chose a site with sandy loam soil near a river, ideal for root crops. The farm employs 20-25 permanent workers on 3.5 hectares and plans to hire 40 more for a 12-hectare expansion. Farmers receive a share of the yield or net income.
The article details their sustainable farming practices: ube survives typhoons with vines that can be propped back up, organic repellents for pest control, locally sourced composted chicken manure as fertilizer, and manual weeding and harvesting to avoid crop damage. Harvesting can take months to ensure no bruises or scratches on the ube.
Future plans include producing ube halaya and ube ice cream. The farm has partnered with companies for international distribution, with the first harvest from the initial 3.5 hectares expected by August 2025, projected at 20 tons per hectare. Exports will target the European market.
A separate section discusses how marketing took ube global by branding its Filipino identity. Ube's purple color and cultural story made it recognizable in desserts, beverages, and pastries. The article connects this to SDG 8, SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), arguing that local crops can compete globally when their unique story is valued.