BACARRA, ILOCOS NORTE – Tucked away in the peaceful village of Pasiocan, a unique mulberry farm is drawing tourists and locals alike with a simple yet delightful offer: for just ₱100, visitors can enjoy harvesting fresh, antioxidant-rich mulberries straight from the source.
This charming destination, developed by former OFW and architect Richie Lamug and his wife Mary Grace, sits on family land inherited from Lamug’s parents. The couple began planting mulberries in September 2023, transforming the property into what is now the largest mulberry farm in Ilocos Norte.
They named it Enrique’s Great Mulberry Farm in memory of Richie’s late father, a retired police inspector who passed in 2021. Featuring over 500 mature Illinois mulberry plants, the farm offers a “pick-and-pay” experience during the fruiting season that has become a local tourism favorite.
“Mulberries are packed with health benefits. They’re rich in iron, vitamin C, and natural compounds known to help lower cholesterol and regulate blood sugar,” Lamug explained. Though traditionally used in Chinese herbal practices, scientific research into their medicinal properties is still ongoing.
To reduce waste and increase value, the Lamugs have expanded their offerings. Harvested fruits are processed into jam and refreshing mulberry juice. They also sell plant cuttings for home gardeners interested in growing their own.
Innovative Mulberry Products Earn Recognition
In 2024, the farm’s homemade mulberry concentrate won top honors in the food category of Ilocos Norte’s Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise (MSME) innovation competition. The contest, organized by the provincial government, celebrates creativity and sustainable entrepreneurship using native raw materials.
The mulberry concentrate is gaining attention for its versatility—used in drinks, desserts, and other food items, it reflects the farm’s vision of product innovation and agri-based enterprise.
A Budding Agri-Tourism Site
Municipal tourism officer Dina Afaga shared that the farm is now being promoted as an emerging agri-tourism attraction in Bacarra. In partnership with the Department of Tourism, the farm recently hosted participants from “May-Kan: Find the Juan,” a DOT Region 1 initiative highlighting Ilocano culture and cuisine.
“This program creates opportunities for travel agencies to develop new tour packages, supporting eco-friendly and sustainable tourism,” Afaga noted.
The farm is currently undergoing accreditation as an official farm tourism site. More mulberry-based products are set to launch soon, continuing its mission to blend farming with innovation.
Located just 10 minutes from Laoag City and easily accessible by all vehicles, Enrique’s Great Mulberry Farm offers a refreshing countryside retreat with a healthy twist.