LA TRINIDAD, Philippines - The strawberry farms of La Trinidad remain a primary attraction for tourists visiting the capital town. These vibrant fields not only lure visitors from around the globe but also serve as a cornerstone of the region's agricultural and tourism industries.
According to Philippines News Agency, La Trinidad has officially designated strawberries as its One Town, One Product (OTOP) offering, underscoring the fruit's significance to the local and foreign tourists who frequent the area, particularly for the unique experience of picking strawberries directly from the farms. This practice, combined with the town's various strawberry-related products and festivities, has significantly contributed to its reputation and economy.
La Trinidad is home to approximately 1,020 farmers dedicated to cultivating strawberries, contributing to a diverse range of derivative products including jams, preserves, wine, vinegar, and even soap. Valred Olsim, the municipal tourism officer, highlighted that around 700,000 tourists visited La Trinidad in 2023, many of whom also explore nearby Baguio City.
Strawberry season traditionally spans from November to June. However, with advancements in agricultural technology and the utilization of greenhouses, the berries are now available year-round, catering to the continuous influx of tourists. Pricing of strawberries varies significantly, with costs ranging from PHP400 to PHP500 per kilo in local markets to PHP700 to PHP1,000 for those picked directly by visitors in the fields.
The town gained international recognition in 2004 when it set a Guinness World Record for the world's largest strawberry shortcake, a tradition that has become a highlight of the annual Strawberry Festival each March. Although this year's celebration did not feature the giant cake, organizers opted for an alternative celebration, distributing 12,000 strawberry cupcakes among attendees, indicating a shift while maintaining the festival's spirit.
Myanne Salda, the municipal administrator, revealed plans to bring back the traditional cake-slicing event next year, incorporating the local "kayabang" design, symbolizing a bountiful strawberry harvest and the sustained prominence of La Trinidad as the Philippines' strawberry capital. This move reflects the community's commitment to preserving and promoting its cultural heritage and economic mainstay.