Pampanga marked a significant milestone in its agricultural sector with the inauguration of the province’s first Onion Cold Storage Facility in Barangay Cabalantian, Bacolor.
The facility, which can store up to 20,000 sacks of onions, is expected to help local farmers preserve the quality of their harvest, reduce post-harvest losses, and give growers greater flexibility in selling their produce when market prices are more favorable.
Present during the inauguration were Governor Lilia “Nanay” Pineda, Vice Governor Dennis “Delta” Pineda, Bacolor Mayor Diman Datu, members of the Sangguniang Bayan, and officials from the Department of Agriculture (DA).
According to the DA, onions can be stored in the facility for up to six months after harvest, allowing farmers to maximize the value of their produce while ensuring a steady supply in the market.
The project was funded through the DA’s Onion Expansion Program, which allocated P41.5 million to strengthen Pampanga’s onion industry.
Once known primarily for its rice fields, Bacolor is gradually emerging as one of the province’s onion-producing centers. At present, more than 50 hectares in the municipality are planted with onions under the leadership of the Bacolor Onion Growers Association.
While Nueva Ecija remains recognized as Central Luzon’s Onion Capital, local officials expressed optimism that Pampanga can establish itself as one of the country’s major producers of high-quality onions.
As additional support for farmers, Governor Pineda and Vice Governor Pineda also announced the provision of wing vans to assist in the transportation and distribution of agricultural products. The Provincial Government likewise pledged to continue working with the DA to expand onion production and identify other municipalities with potential for onion farming.
During the event, farmers also received more than 1,000 sacks of rice seeds to support agricultural productivity in the province.
Provincial officials said the new cold storage facility is expected to strengthen the local onion industry, improve farmers’ incomes, and contribute to the continued growth of Pampanga’s agricultural sector.
