29/11/2011 (Philippine Information Agency) - Stakeholders of the oil palm industry in the Soccsksargen Region have recently organized the Palm Oil Industry Tripartite Council (ITC) that will supervise the directions of one of the fast-growing industries.

Under the direction of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) – Sultan Kudarat field office, 33 oil palm stakeholders met with DOLE 12 Regional Director Atty. Ma. Gloria Tango to discuss important matters that affect the palm oil sector.

During the meeting, Atty. Tango, emphasized the importance of ITC, particularly in the maintenance of industrial peace as well as in DOLE’s current labor and employment plan.

She said, various ITCs have already been organized in the region, including fishing ITC in General Santos City, banana ITC in North Cotabato, and the pineapple ITC in South Cotabato.

Recognized as a growing and potentially important industry by the Regional Development Council (RDC), the oil palm industry should have leaders among its stakeholders that will ensure that improvements in the industry as a major contributor in economic development of the region and employment generation are sustained, Tango explained.

In response to Director Tango’s challenge, participants decided to elect officers who will lead the ITC.

Elected officers of the Oil Palm ITC were: Mr. Gerry Calong of (KIDI), vice chairperson for Management; Mr. Eduardo Gavileno of UKARBEMPCO, vice chairperson for Labor; Ms. Shiela Mae Jamero of Bernardo Farms , secretary ; Mr. Rogelion Tabat of Bagumbayan , Sultan Kudarat, treasurer; Dr. Jerry Marquez of New Isabela, Tacurong City, Auditor; and Mr. Joesine Loyloy of M&S Co., Inc., public relations officer.

As in the other ITCs, Director Tango stands as chairman of the ITC.

Among issues and concerns of the industry discussed during the meeting were skills and tools enhancement of the harvesters, need for additional mills, conditions of farm to market roads, and proliferation of illegal buyers and nurseries.

Officers believe the organization of an ITC will be a strong body to push for support from other agencies such as the Philippine Coconut Authority, Department of Agriculture, Department of Trade and Industry, Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority, Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI), and local government units.

In succeeding meetings, the ITC hopes to create their constitution and by-laws, and action plan.