Buhian Diversified Farm, INITAO, MISAMIS ORIENTAL---The Agricultural Training Institute - Regional Training Center X (ATI-RTC X) has recently organized a Training of Trainers (TOT) program focused on Coconut Production and Management. This initiative is part of the broader efforts to improve the lives of underprivileged and marginalized coconut farmers in the region. By equipping trainers with the right skills and knowledge, the program aims to empower the coconut farmers and support their growth.
The objective of the said training activity is to improve the knowledge and abilities of Agriculture Extension Workers (AEWs), Learning Site for Agriculture (LSA) operators, coconut farmer leaders, and cooperators in various aspects of the coconut value chain. The program has attracted 27 participants who will participate in activities such as preparing for coconut production, managing coconut plantations, harvesting, and post-harvesting processes at the Buhian Diversified Farm in Apas, Initao, Misamis Oriental from March 11 to March 22, 2024.
This particular coconut specialist training course aims to develop the knowledge and skills of the participants as coconut specialists proficient in the various steps, processes, and theories related to the coconut value chain. This includes preparatory activities in coconut production; coconut plantation management; harvesting and post-harvesting; economics, environment, social and human relations; and other policy-institutional aspects.
Meanwhile, the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) was developed to set the directions, policies, and mechanisms to attain objectives such as increasing farmers' income, alleviating poverty, and achieving social equity among coconut farmers. The plan lays out the components, strategies as well as the implementing agencies for each component. Among the agencies, the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), is the capacity builder of the Department of Agriculture.
The ATI, under its training component, will conduct a series of Training of Trainers (TOT) at the regional levels to equip the Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) and various stakeholders (coconut farmers/leaders) to harness their skills in coconut production across the value chain.
The training participants are expected to serve as resource persons after their training and deliver topics on the various steps, processes, and theories related to the coconut value chain.
Ten Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) and 15 Learning Site Cooperators/Coconut Farmer Leaders were trained on Coconut Plantation Management, Site Selection and Management, Sourcing and Selection of Planting Materials, Nursery Establishment, Farm Establishment, Farm Maintenance, and Coconut Age and Productivity.
The training participants also discussed the cultural management practices in coconut production, as well as farm diversification through Intercropping with cacao and coffee and livestock integration (swine, cattle, goat, and poultry).
The importance of diversification for coconut farmers is underscored during the training since by diversifying their farms, farmers can make the most of their land, increase productivity, and boost their incomes, which is crucial for their financial stability. Additionally, diversification enables coconut farmers to adapt to changing trends and stay competitive in the agricultural industry, ultimately helping to combat poverty in the sector. Furthermore, diversification allows for the integration of intercropping practices, such as planting a variety of crops between coconut trees, which can further enhance productivity and provide additional income streams for farmers. In summary, diversification is key to improving the resilience, sustainability, and economic viability of coconut farming in the Philippines.
Earlier in February, a similar Training of Trainers (TOT) on Coconut Production and Management was organized by the Career Development and Management Section (CDMS) of the center, with Training Specialist II Noriel Kris O. Santillan serving as the Project Officer and funds sourced from the ongoing Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP). (with reports from Noriel Kris O. Santillan, Training Specialist II)
