The Department of Science and Technology said it would  help in avoiding vegetable waste through research and by monitoring agricultural production.

“There are probably many interventions that can be done. We are not the lead there, but we can assist depending on the desire of the LGUs (local government units) or coops or farmers and the industry,” said DOST Secretary Renato Solidum on Thursday in Baguio City.

Studying the crops being planted  is the agency’s first recommendation.

He added that they have funded projects in other regions, including the creation of a mobile application where farmers are connected to markets and buyers.

Under  this application, the buyers can inform the farmers of what produce they need.

Solidum also said that the DOST’s Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development will also help.

Solidum emphasized that stakeholders’ participation in addressing the matter is needed.

Vegetable surpluses such as cabbage, carrots, and tomatoes contribute to the problem.

The processing of the said produce will be tackled so they do not go to waste through longer shelf life as finished products.

A program to closely monitor the supply chain is also needed.