TALAINGOD, Davao del Norte‒ Growing coffee under coconut trees offers farmers an additional source of income through a sustainable and profitable agroforestry system that maximizes land use while preserving biodiversity and soil health. This system benefits coffee plants, which thrive in the partial shade provided by coconut trees, creating a favorable microclimate.
To enhance the skills and knowledge of farmers in good farming practices for both coconut and coffee, the Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center XI conducted a Training on Coconut Production and Coffee Rehabilitation from July 17 to 19, 2024 at Brgy. Palma Gil.
A total of 30 farmers who are registered with the National Coconut Farmers Registry System (NCFRS) and the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA) participated in the training. These farmers are also beneficiaries of the Coconut Farmers Industry Development Program (CFIDP).
The training included lectures and discussions covering topics such as recommended varieties of coconut and coffee and their characteristics, cultural practices, and management of coffee under coconut plantations. It also covered the integration of the coco-coffee farming system and its advantages, along with common insect pests and diseases affecting both coconut and coffee and their control measures. In addition to lectures, the training featured hands-on field practicums focused on improving yield and income through better farming techniques.
Ms. Nanie Cepriano, one of the participants, expressed her gratitude during the closing ceremony: “Dako kaayo ang akong pasalamat sa ATI-RTC XI nga mipadala ug mag personahe nga mitudlo ug mo share ilang knowledge aron kami makabaton ug mga bag-ong kaalam mahitungod sa lubi ug kape sa mga maayong pamaagi sa pagpanguma, ilabi na sa maayong pagpili ug dekalidad nga semilya ug sa planting distance sa lubi ug kape." (I am very thankful to ATI-RTC XI for sending experts to teach us and share their knowledge. We gained new insights on good farming practices for coconut and coffee, especially in selecting quality seedlings and proper planting distances for both crops.)
Upon completion of the training, the graduates received agricultural tools, promotional materials, and certificates. They are now expected to apply what they have learned and share their knowledge with other farmers in their communities.
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Writer: Ruby Jane P. Bentiroso
Editor: Cristin Rosan T. Besario
