Davao del Norte execs back BuCor-Tadeco deal

MANILA, Philippines - Provincial and other local officials in Davao del Norte have expressed support for the joint venture agreement  between the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) and Tagum Agricultural Development Co. Inc. (Tadeco).

The deal is for the lease of 5,300 hectares of the Davao Penal Colony (Dapecol) to Tadeco, the country’s largest banana producer and exporter.    

In a resolution recently approved by the provincial board, officials cited the “invaluable role” of the deal for Dapelco inmates as well as the economic benefits of the banana plantation, particularly in providing jobs and improving the lives of its residents. 

 “Tadeco has provided (inmates) with skills that will enable them to eventually reintegrate into the society as productive and responsible citizens,” read the three-page resolution, copies of which were furnished to the BuCor and Department of Justice. 

Asuncion town Mayor Eufracio Dayaday and Vice Mayor Joel Camello said many of their constituents were employed at Tadeco.

“While other banana plantations were shut down due to complex problems...we have Tadeco that keeps international quality standards and complies with wage standards while giving additional benefits to its employees,” said Camelo.

 Councilors Virgelio Getezo and Romy Nepa of New Corella and Talaingon towns, respectively, said they also support the agreement. 

BuCor Director Benjamin delos Santos earlier said the bureau could not manage the 5,308.36-hectare banana plantation at Dapecol. 

Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez is seeking an inquiry into the deal, which he claims is grossly disadvantageous to the government. 

There are still 12 years remaining under the agreement, which earns for the government P26.542 million a year for the lease of the property at P5,000 per hectare.