Author: Manuelito R. Putong

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Effects of Cross-Pollination

Effects of Cross-Pollination in Aquilaria Species (Agarwood Trees)

Aquilaria species, particularly Aquilaria malaccensis, are highly valued for their Agarwood production. Cross-pollination in these trees can have both beneficial and challenging effects, impacting resin formation, genetic diversity, and tree health.

Positive Effects of Cross-Pollination in Aquilaria

Increased Genetic Diversity

  • Cross-pollination introduces new genetic traits, making the trees more resilient to diseases, pests, and climate stress.
  • Stronger genetic diversity leads to better adaptation to environmental changes.

Improved Growth Rate & Survival

  • Hybrid Aquilaria trees may exhibit faster growth and improved survival rates, ensuring better plantation success.
  • Trees may develop stronger root systems and enhanced leaf production, leading to higher biomass accumulation.

Potential for Enhanced Resin Production

  • Genetic variation may lead to higher or more consistent Agarwood resin production, which is the most valuable part of the tree.
  • Some hybrids might produce resin faster or with improved quality.

Greater Seed Viability & Pollination Success

  • Cross-pollination can increase the fertility of seeds, leading to better germination rates.
  • This is crucial for sustainable Agarwood plantations and conservation programs.

Negative Effects of Cross-Pollination in Aquilaria

❌ Loss of Specific Traits

  • Uncontrolled cross-pollination may result in loss of desirable characteristics, such as high-resin-producing genetics.
  • Some hybrids may produce lower-quality or less aromatic resin, affecting market value.

❌ Unpredictable Resin Formation

  • Some crossbred trees may not develop Agarwood resin naturally or may require different inoculation techniques.
  • The biochemical properties of Oud oil may vary, affecting fragrance and market demand.

❌ Variability in Growth and Yield

  • While some hybrids grow faster, others may develop weak wood structure or be less adaptable to local conditions.
  • This inconsistency makes it difficult to standardize Agarwood plantation outputs.

Practical Applications of Cross-Pollination in Agarwood Farming

✔ Controlled Breeding Programs – Farmers can select high-yielding parent trees to enhance productivity.
✔ Improved Seedling Varieties – Research institutions can develop elite hybrid seedlings with higher resin content.
✔ Better Disease Resistance – Crossbreeding with naturally pest-resistant species can reduce chemical pesticide dependence.

Key Consideration:
To maintain high-quality Agarwood production, controlled breeding and scientific propagation methods (e.g., organogenesis, tissue culture) should be used alongside cross-pollination strategies.

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Economic Impact of the Agarwood Industry in the Philippines

The economic impact of the Agarwood industry on the Philippines’ economy can be significant, offering benefits across multiple sectors such as agriculture, exports, job creation, and sustainable development. Here’s a breakdown of its potential effects:

1️⃣ High-Value Export Market

✅ Global Demand – The Agarwood market is valued at over $8 billion globally, with demand rising in the Middle East, China, and Europe.
✅ Philippine Advantage – The country is home to Aquilaria species, providing opportunities to compete in the international luxury fragrance, essential oil, and medicinal industries.
✅ Export Revenue – With proper industry support, Agarwood products (essential oils, chips, beads, incense, cosmetics) can significantly boost Philippine exports.

2️⃣ Job Creation & Livelihood Opportunities

✅ Agroforestry & Plantation Farming – Thousands of farmers and indigenous communities can engage in Agarwood cultivation.
✅ Processing & Manufacturing – Establishing distillation plants, extraction facilities, and artisan workshops will provide employment in rural and urban areas.
✅ Research & Development – Universities and private firms investing in biotechnology, sustainable cultivation, and product innovation will create skilled jobs.

3️⃣ Sustainable Agriculture & Environmental Benefits

✅ Reforestation & Agroforestry – Agarwood plantations combat deforestation and restore biodiversity in degraded areas.
✅ Carbon Sequestration – As a long-term crop, Agarwood trees absorb carbon dioxide, helping mitigate climate change.
✅ Alternative Livelihoods for Farmers – Providing a sustainable income source, reducing dependence on logging or low-value crops.

4️⃣ Growth of the Philippine Perfumery, Wellness & Pharmaceutical Industries

✅ Luxury Fragrance Market – Agarwood oil is a key ingredient in high-end perfumes, positioning the Philippines as a global supplier.
✅ Traditional & Herbal Medicine – Agarwood is used in Ayurveda, Chinese medicine, and alternative health therapies.
✅ Cosmetics & Skincare – Agarwood extracts have anti-aging, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties, fueling the cosmetic and wellness sector.

5️⃣ Investment & Business Opportunities

✅ Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) – Attracting international investors in plantations, distillation facilities, and processing plants.
✅ Government Revenue – Through taxes, permits, and export duties, Agarwood businesses can contribute to the national economy.
✅ Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) – Collaborations between the government, private sector, and indigenous communities can scale the industry.

Conclusion: A Strategic Growth Industry for the Philippines

The Agarwood industry offers the Philippines a unique opportunity to enter the global luxury and medicinal markets while promoting sustainable economic growth. With government support, investment, and regulation, it could become a multi-million-dollar export sector while preserving the country’s natural resources and creating thousands of jobs.

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DOST-FPRDI and AGPC for Agarwood Tea

MOA signing between DOST-FPRDI and Agarwood Growers Producers Cooperative (AGPC) last February 8, 2023 at DOST-FPRDI, Los Banos, Laguna

The partnership will involve research and development on the utilization of Agarwood (Aquilaria malaccensis Lam., local name Bari) in the country. It also aims to capacitate the local Agarwood growers through technical assistance.

Present in the MOA signing are DOST-FPRDI Director Dr. Romulo T. Aggangan, Deputy Director Dr. Rico J. Cabangon, AGPC Chairman Mr. Philip T. Lim, AGAP Director Mr. Manuelito Putong, Secretariat Mr. Noel Putong and Ms. Ching Alcantara, F3TP Program Leader For. Florena B. Samiano, Chemistry and Biotechnology Section Chief Ms. Rebecca Lapuz, Project Leader Ms. Kimberly Delica, S&T Fellow Mr. Edmark C. Kamantigue, and several Region IV AGPC Board Members.

Stay tuned to our website https://fprdi.dost.gov.ph/ and social media account https://www.facebook.com/dostfprdi for more updates on our Agarwood project.

Photo courtesy: Ms. Kimberly Delica

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Interesting Facts about Agarwood

1. Religious texts were written on bark from agar trees and Srimanta Sankardev referred to agarwood as one of the divine trees with the ability to fulfill human desire.
2. Burning Agarwood was called the ‘scent of Nirvana’ by The Lord Buddha.
3. It is extensively mentioned in the Sanskrit Vedas as a favorite of Lord Krishna.
4. Agarwood has played an important role in many religious traditions all over the world. It has been revered for millennia for its fragrance in religious ceremony and its incense burned at the burial of Jesus Christ.
5. King Louis XIV had his clothing washed in water scented with agarwood.
6. Agarwood smoke was used to scent the armor of Samurai warriors before heading into battle.
7. In Genesis, agarwood is mentioned as the only tree from which Adam and Eve could take cuttings.
8. Although it is not that well known in the West, agarwood has a rich history of medicinal use in many cultures. It has been used for centuries by physicians in Tibet, India, China and the Arab world to treat a range of physical and mental conditions.
9. The Prophet Mohammed used Agarwood to perform fumigation rituals, a practice which is continued today by Orthodox.

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Discover the Rare Beauty of Aquilaria parvifolia (Butlong-liitan)

A Living Treasure of the Philippines

Aquilaria parvifolia, locally known as Butlong-liitan, is a rare and exquisite native agarwood-producing species from the Thymelaeaceae family. It is the smallest among its genus, standing at just 1 meter tall, making it a perfect ornamental plant for gardens, botanical collections, and conservation exhibits.

Why Choose Aquilaria parvifolia?
✅ Rare & Exclusive – A unique Philippine-native species, seldom found in cultivation.
✅ Compact & Elegant – Ideal for limited spaces, bonsai enthusiasts, and ornamental gardens.
✅ Distinctive Features – Striking reddish fruits and lush green foliage similar to Aquilaria cumingiana (Butlo).
✅ Perfect for Exhibitions – A stunning display plant that showcases biodiversity and conservation efforts.

Cultivated with Care at Nalihawan Agarwood Farm
Since 2019, Putz Agarwood Farm Corporation’s Nalihawan Agarwood Farm in Antique has been home to this exceptional species, thriving alongside three other Aquilaria varieties in a 20+ hectare forested area.

Our Mission: Conservation & Distribution
We are dedicated to propagating A. parvifolia for wider distribution as a premium ornamental plant, ensuring its preservation while allowing plant collectors, botanical gardens, and nature lovers to experience its beauty firsthand. However, due to its unique blooming challenges, this species remains extremely rare and highly sought-after.