Bacolod, LANAO DEL NORTE---A one-day graduation activity of the Season Long Coconut Farm Business School (FBS) transpired at the Queensland Herbs and Tourism Farm in Bacolod, Lanao del Norte. This initiative aims to enhance the business insight of coconut farmers and extension workers through comprehensive training focusing on production strategies, business planning, and market analysis for coconut farm businesses.
The said activity, organized by Queenie R. Notario, included visits to various farms and coconut processing facilities, providing participants with practical insights into the industry. It emphasized entrepreneurial skills necessary for improving coconut production and processing, ultimately aiming to increase farmers' income and sustainability.
โDaghan nang mga intervention ug mga programa nga gibubo sa gobyerno para kita makatuon. Itโs up to you then mupalambo. Improve your products, build your network, use the power of social media, learn about financial management, and take every day as an opportunity to introduce your products, and have an entrepreneurial mindsetโ, Administrative Office IV Efren C. Macario said in his message on Tuesday, September 24, 2024.
Assisted by training facilitators Nor Asleah Permites and Anthonette June D. Russel, the culminating activity celebrated the achievements of 30 graduates who showcased their innovative coconut-based products such as coco-bread with bokayo, buko juice, palapa, kakanins, tira-tira, coconut shell key chains, etc. as part of the event. This hands-on approach allowed participants to apply their newfound knowledge in real-life scenarios, reinforcing the importance of value-added products in enhancing profitability.
The Season Long Coconut Farm Business School is part of a broader effort to support coconut farmers through capacity-building initiatives outlined in the Coconut Farmers Industry Development Plan (CFIDP). This development plan seeks to uplift marginalized coconut farmers by providing them with essential skills and knowledge to thrive in a competitive market.
By fostering a deeper understanding of the business side of coconut farming, this program not only aims to improve individual farm productivity but also contributes to the overall growth and resilience of the coconut industry in the region.