Proposal: Establishment of Agarwood Farming NC I – NC III
Decision Requested:
Approval to develop and pilot a standalone TESDA qualification for Agarwood Farming (NC I, NC II, NC III).
Background
Agarwood (Aquilaria spp.) is a high-value, CITES-regulated non-timber forest product with strong international demand. The Philippines currently lacks a dedicated TESDA qualification addressing agarwood-specific production, compliance, and ethical trade requirements.
Key Issues
- Skills fragmentation under generic agriculture and forestry NCs
- High risk of illegal practices due to lack of compliance training
- Missed opportunity for rural livelihood and export competitiveness
Proposed Action
Approve the issuance of Training Regulations for Agarwood Farming NC I–NC III under the Agriculture, Forestry and Fishery Sector.
Expected Outcomes
- Legal, sustainable agarwood production workforce
- Improved farmer income and export readiness
- Alignment with DENR conservation and DA agroforestry goals
Implementation
Pilot delivery through TESDA Training Centers, LGUs, SUCs, and accredited private farms (Aetherial Natural Oils Corp)