New BSU [Benguet State Univ., Philippines] sweet potato variety

In Northern Philippines, the traditional sweet potato varieties still thrive and patronized by famers. However, these varieties are low yielding, late maturing and susceptible to pest and diseases. There is a need to develop and introduce new varieties that are adopted to local conditions, high yielding and acceptable to farmers as well as consumers. An example of this is the 'Tagalog', a highland sweet potato cultivar, approved as a variety with the recommended name of 'Bengueta'. To evaluate this cultivar for yield performance, pest and disease incidence, and eating quality under different local conditions, Gonzales et al. (NPRCRTC) conducted a series of trials (preliminary, advanced, multi-location). The multi-location trials were conducted for two wet and dry seasons from 2001 to 2004. Tagalog has an average yield of 15 t/ha compared with the traditional varieties which yielded an average of 4 t/ha. It matured in 5-7 months after planting; growth habit was spreading; stem was green; leaf was green when mature and dark purple when immature. Traditional varieties matured in 6-8 months. Tagalog was moderately resistant to leaf and stem scab, and high yielding in high, mid and low elevations. Dry matter content of tubers was 37% during dry season and 31% during wet season; sugar content was 2.95%; starch content was 14.19%; root skin was pink; and flesh was yellow. Tagalog contained higher dry matter content in comparison with some traditional varieties. Tagalog has good eating quality, possessed good processing quality, and suited for various processed products such as cookies, buns, candies, chips and puto (rice bread). It was also found to be highly acceptable to consumers. Considering the results of the varietal evaluation, Tagalog or Bengueta was officially recommended to the National Seed Industry Council (NSIC). Its cultivation in the highlands will not only introduce a new variety but will also address food security for the rapidly growing population.