Champion the grower
We carry the concerns of small and medium-scale growers to government and relevant agencies.
About the Council
Who we are
The Philippine Banana Council, Inc. was established in 2017 as the unified body of the Philippine banana industry. Our membership brings together every sector of the value chain:
- Cavendish producers of the Pilipino Banana Growers and Exporters Association (PBGEA), composed of multinational companies
- Independent Cavendish exporters
- Small and medium-scale growers and cooperatives
- Fruit processors
- Producers of other banana varieties, such as Cardava
This broad representation ensures the Council reflects the full spectrum of the industry's needs, challenges, and opportunities.
Our mission
The Council was created to be a bridge of unity and collaboration within the banana industry.
Support at every scale
We provide assistance and support to growers across various capacities.
Strengthen cooperation
We build working ties between large companies, independent exporters, and growers.
Advocate industry-wide
We drive collective solutions to plant disease, market access, and production challenges.
The Council stands as a collective voice committed to the sustainable growth and competitiveness of the Philippine banana sector.
A decade of unity
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2016
The call for a council
At the National Banana Congress in Davao City, industry leaders call for a national banana council. President Duterte tells the industry it must come through law — so the industry acts on its own.
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2017
The Council is born
Growers, exporters, processors, and cooperatives establish the Philippine Banana Council, Inc. — a unified, private-sector-led voice for the whole industry.
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2022
National recognition
The Department of Agriculture's Philippine Banana Industry Roadmap names the PhilBana Council among the industry's key coordinating bodies.
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2024
BanCon returns
The Council co-hosts the Banana Conference and Trade Exhibit in Davao City, gathering 500 farmers and industry players.
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2025
A record comeback
BanCon 2025 convenes 400+ stakeholders as Philippine exports surge 26% and reclaim the world's No. 2 position.
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2026
To the world
The Council represents the Philippine banana industry as the national pavilion returns to Asia Fruit Logistica in Hong Kong.
Key initiatives
BanCon — the Banana Conference & Trade Exhibit (2024 & 2025)
A major annual gathering of growers, experts, and industry players sharing market updates, emerging technologies, and best practices in plant care.
Fusarium Wilt TR4 management
Disseminating the latest treatments, technologies, and containment strategies to help growers protect their farms from the industry's gravest disease threat.
Financial access for growers
Engaging financial institutions to expand credit facilities for small and medium-scale growers.
Variety development
Collaborating with companies developing Panama disease-tolerant varieties to secure the industry's long-term future.
The Banana Bill
Supporting landmark legislation to provide financial assistance to growers and establish a dedicated Banana Research Center — advancing disease control, pest management, and production efficiency.
Leadership
The Council is guided by leaders with deep experience and unwavering dedication to the industry.
Stephen A. Antig
Chairperson
Atty. Peter Paul Savillo
President