To enhance the knowledge and skills of Learning Sites for Agriculture (LSA) Cooperators in adopting innovative and sustainable farming practices, the Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center XI (ATI-RTC XI) organized an Experience-Based Enhancement program for 22 coco-based LSA farm partners under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) on October 7-11, 2024.
This initiative focused on exposing participants to best practices, fostering interactive learning, and facilitating collaborative action planning with LSAs across the region.
The journey commenced at the Organic Haven Farm in Brgy. Katipunan, Panabo City, owned by Mrs. Betty More. This farm exemplifies the benefits of organic agriculture, featuring honey bee integration, organically raised native chickens, and the processing of coco sugar, as well as other products such as turmeric and moringa teas. The farm holds certification from Control Union as a third-party certified organic producer.
Following this visit, the group traveled to Agrisolutions Marketing Cooperative, with sites located in Ilang, Davao City, and Lupon, Davao Oriental. These sites specialize in processing various coconut by-products, including grow bags made from coconut chips, coco peat, and geo nets. Ms. Nena E. Mawalic, Consultant of the LSA farm, provided an insightful tour of the facilities.
On the second day, the group visited the Amiros Integrated Farm in Mabini, Davao de Oro, renowned for its diversified farming practices. Farm owner Mr. Benigno Sorima, a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) by profession, emphasized the importance of maintaining accurate farm records to ensure successful farming as a business.
Afterward, the group proceeded to the Cocolife Multipurpose Cooperative in Pantukan, Davao de Oro, owned by Mr. Rudy O. Ang. This cooperative focuses on processing various coconut by-products, including virgin coconut oil, coco vinegar, copra meal, and desiccated coconut.
They continued their journey at GBN Farms in Banaybanay, Davao Oriental, which is known for its hybrid coconut production intercropped with vegetables. The participants were warmly welcomed by the farm owner, Mr. Gabriel Nuez. This farm also produces coco vinegar and an energy drink derived from coconut sap.
At Nabunturan Farmers Multipurpose Cooperative (NAFAMCO) in Nabunturan, Davao de Oro, Ms. Eden A. Valledor briefed them about their integration of coconut-cacao farming system and dairy cattle production.
For their final visit, the group traveled to Amparitas Integrated Natural Farm in Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur. This coconut-based diversified farm is a certified Learning Site for Agriculture (LSA) under the ATI-Caraga region. The farm showcases best practices in coconut farming and the processing of various coconut by-products, including both food and non-food grades. Engr. Ramon Barbosa, an agricultural engineer and former Regional Director of PCA-Caraga, emphasized the importance of prioritizing the welfare of farm workers when operating a farm as a business. Recently, Amparitas was recognized as an outstanding organization by DOLE-Caraga.
These field visits and hands-on activities provided LSA Cooperators with valuable firsthand insights into sustainable coconut-based farming practices.
The program underscored the importance of keeping LSA farm partners updated on the latest developments in the field, empowering them to share best management practices and contribute to the advancement of the coconut industry in the Davao Region.
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Contributor: Felson Jay V. Mahumot
