Davao City— Growing coffee under coconut trees offers farmers an additional source of income through a sustainable and profitable agroforestry system. This integrated approach capitalizes on the partial shade preferred by coffee plants to enhance bean quality, while coconut trees optimize land use and resources, preserving biodiversity and soil health. The coffee plants, in turn, create a favorable microclimate for coffee cultivation.
To further empower agricultural extension workers (AEWs) and farmer leaders in the Davao region, the Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center XI conducted a Training of Trainers (TOT) on the Coconut-Coffee Farming System.
The comprehensive training covered essential topics such as maximizing land productivity, achieving economic benefits, and adopting sustainable agricultural practices through the integration of coconut and coffee cultivation. Key areas included insights into the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP), cultural practices, effective management techniques for coffee grown under coconut plantations, and strategies for identifying and managing common insect pests and diseases affecting both crops.
Upon completion of the training, participants earned 16 CPD units in agriculture. Equipped with new knowledge and skills, AEWs and farmer leaders are now better prepared to promote and implement the coconut-coffee farming system in their communities. This initiative aims to foster sustainable agricultural practices and enhance local livelihoods through diversified farming methods.
The TOT took place at Magayon Integrated Farm, Tamugan, Marilog District on May 27-31, 2024.
