JIMENEZ, MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL – To champion safe,healthier and standard-based coconut production in Misamis Occidental, the Agricultural Training Institute–Regional Training Center X (ATI-RTC X) conducted a Training on Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) for Coconut (Batch 1) at Fortunata Natural Farm on May 20–22, 2026.
There were 30 local coconut farmers who completed the three-day activity. Participants, who are all registered under the National Coconut Farmers Registry System (NCFRS), came from the municipalities of Clarin and Jimenez.
During the training, the farmers learned modern, sustainable cultivation techniques designed to elevate the quality of their yields and align their operations with the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP).
Also discussed were the physiology, morphology, and growth stages of coconut, as well as the Good Agricultural Practices standards prescribed under the Philippine National Standards (PNS). A major highlight of the activity was preparing the farmers for PhilGAP Certification. Discussions involved the mandatory requirements, complex application processes, and core elements needed for the certification. Achieving PhilGAP certification is a crucial milestone for local farmers, as it serves as a gateway to boosting farm productivity, ensuring top-tier food safety, improving overall product quality, and securing long-term environmental sustainability.
To reinforce the lessons learned, practical applications were done through a hands-on and benchmarking activity at Fortunata Natural Farm. The field-based learning experience allowed the participants to observe actual farm practices and gain practical insights that they can apply in their own coconut farms.
The training forms part of ATI-RTC X’s continuing efforts to strengthen the capabilities of coconut farmers and support the implementation of programs under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan.
Report from Technical Support Staff Joebert D. Apdian.
