Capacitating future trainers and implementers of farmer-level activities under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan, the Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center 1 conducted the Training of Trainers on Coconut products and by-products Processing on May 15-26, 2023 at Ima Integrated Farm, Brgy. Caparispisan, Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte.
The training was completed by 19 farmer-cooperators and representatives of farm schools, Learning Sites for Agriculture(LSAs), Private Extension Service Providers(PESPs), and other implementing agencies of CFIDP in Region 1.
The first week of the 10-day TOT focused on coconut production and management practices including pests and disease management. A field practicum was also conducted, such as the selection of good quality seed nuts for the nursery, establishment of the coco seed nut nursery, estimating the age of coconut palm, planting, and establishment of Green Muscardine Fungus compost area to control rhinoceros beetle. Farm record keeping was also one of the very important topics discussed by Ms. Evelyn Breguera, one of the Certified Go Negosyo Mentors.
The following week highlighted the processing of coconut products and by-products enabling the participants to produce virgin coconut oil (VCO) from matured coconuts and coco earings, coco bowls, and coco poles made of coconut shells. These hands-on demonstrated activities were facilitated by experts and practitioners from the Delmar Shellcraft Multi Purpose Cooperative.
Present during the training who expressed their messages of support were PCA 1-3 & CAR Regional Manager Mr. Dennis Andres; Board of Trustee-Luzonwide and Coconut Farmers Representative, Director Flor Olivar; ATI-RTC I CFIDP Focal Person/Center Director Dr. Rogelio C. Evangelista and Assistant Center Director, Dr. Josephine Aben; Pagudpud Municipal Mayor, Hon. Raphael Ralph Benemerito II; Municipal Agriculturist, Engr. Jin Gazmen; and owner of Ima Integrated Farm and Chairman of Delmar Shellcraft MPC Ms. Elizabeth Benemerito were also in attendance extending their gratitude for being the host venue of the training.
The comprehensive training was accredited by the Professional Regulation Commission –Continuing Professional Development (PRC-CPD), entitling the participants to 80 credit units.
