Purple Yam (ube) is one of the most demanded crops in the Philippines, as it supplies drinks and recipes that are popular with the community.

Due to rising demand, the popularity of purple yam has reached other countries, like the United States of America (USA). 

Recently, the US Department of Agriculture has awarded about $34.1 million, or an equivalent of over 2.16 billion pesos, to support the development of the purple yam through the Food for Progress Program. It also aims to strengthen the value chain of the crop.

About 12,500 farmers will benefit from this program over the next five years.