Thirty-one (31) participants composed of Agricultural Extension Workers (AEW), and farmer leaders across the region completed the Training of Trainers on Coconut Production and Management.
This initiative aligns with the commitment of the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) to the broader goal of the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) in strengthening the coconut industry and promoting sustainable agricultural practices among coconut farmers.
ATI-RTC X CFIDP Point Person and Project Officer Noriel Kris O. Santillan explained that enhancing the capacity of agricultural extension workers and farmer-leaders is vital in sustaining the growth of the coconut industry towards a more productive and competitive coconut sector in Region X.
On the other hand, PCA 10 Senior Agriculturist Engr. Alfredo C. Lagua Jr. delivered a message of support on behalf of PCA 10 Acting-Regional Manager Roland Callo, emphasizing the continuous partnership of PCA and ATI in implementing CFIDP activities to improve the coconut farmers and the coconut industry in the region.
The 10-day training of trainers equipped the participants with knowledge and improved skills in the various aspects of coconut production, including modern farming techniques, pest and disease management, post-harvest handling, and value-adding.
Moreover, the participants were also equipped with relevant soft skills in becoming effective trainers, such as communication in extension, leadership, and social preparation, ensuring that knowledge is effectively transferred and applied in the field.
Aside from lectures and discussions, the participants also performed hands-on activities on farm layout, seed nut selection, nursery establishment, and proper poly-bagging that allowed them to apply their learnings in real-life agricultural settings.
In addition, a benchmarking activity was also conducted on the coconut-based enterprises in Lanao del Norte and visited the Laregina Coconut Products and Manufacturing in Baroy, and the Mindanao Cooperative of Trades and Industries (MCTI) in Tubod to learn and observe the various innovative and sustainable products that can be made from coconut.
During the closing program, the participants expressed their appreciation for the training, emphasizing that the combination of technical knowledge and leadership skills development will help them become more effective in their roles.
As trainers, the participants are obliged to cascade their newfound knowledge to coconut farmers in their respective communities.
The training was conducted last March 17-27, 2025 at Buhian Diversified Farm - a coconut-based Learning Site for Agriculture (LSA) in Apas, Initao, Misamis Oriental.
