A great many companies came together to ensure that 250 cartons of premium Philippine Carabao mangoes were sent on their way from Manila, on board of Air Canada, to Vancouver, Canada, last month. Philippine exporter, Mensch FilAm Corporation arranged the shipment, in collaboration with the Department of Trade and Industry’s Export Marketing Bureau and the Department of Agriculture. Airspeed International Corporation provided local logistics support. On the Canadian side, Fresh Makers Ltd. took delivery of the cargo and arranged its distribution to local supermarkets and Canadian wholesale buyers.
Coordinating the time-sensitive journey was Cargo Air Resources Group of the Philippines, a member of TAM Group, which is Air Canada Cargo’s general sales agent in the country. TAM Group has long experience in moving similar time-sensitive perishables, including Chilean cherries and Malaysian durian.
The shipment was classed as a landmark event, since it opens up Philippine products and exports to Canada. It was therefore given a ceremonial send-off at Cargohaus in Parañaque City, Manila, on 18SEP26 before being loaded onto Air Canada’s flight AC018, the next day, landing in Vancouver on 20SEP26, where it quickly passed through customs and on to its final destinations. Given the well-planned transport, this may well be the first of many such shipments.
Known for its distinctive sweetness, aroma and texture, the Carabao mango is among the Philippines’ best-known agricultural exports. New destinations like Canada could help diversify markets and support the livelihoods of Filipino growers and exporters. Alvin Tam, Senior Vice President, Commercial, TAM Group, summarized: “The successful delivery of these mangoes to Vancouver, reflects what reliable air connectivity and precise cargo coordination can achieve for Philippine exporters. Fresh produce is highly time-sensitive, and every stage of the journey, from booking and documentation to uplift and arrival, has to work seamlessly. We are proud to have played a role in enabling Philippine growers and exporters access new markets.”
