In a significant move aimed at enhancing coconut farming in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), two new Coconut-Based Learning Sites for Agriculture (Coco-LSAs) were officially inaugurated. The launch ceremony took place on October 16, 2023, at the Sharif Datu Tjjammomdad Ampatuan Learning Site for Agriculture in Datu Abdullah Sangki and the Barangay Campo Bangsamoro Agriculture Cooperative (BCBAC) in General Salipada K. Pendatun, Maguindanao Del Sur.

Center Director Abdul I. Daya-an formally announced that the two Coco-LSAs are now accessible to the public, ready to serve coconut farmers by providing access to cutting-edge coconut technologies.

The event witnessed the presence of several officials, including PCA-BARMM OIC Regional Manager Datumanong Pendi, MBHTE-TESD Director General Ruby Andong, MTIT-BARMM Deputy Minister Atty. Sukarno Abas, MAFAR-Maguindanao officials, General Taharudin V. Ampatuan, and LGU officials.

The cooperator of Sharif Satu Tjjammomdad Ampatuan Learning Site for Agriculture expressed their vision of becoming a science-based agri-fishery model farm with diversified products for their 15.7-hectare farm.

Meanwhile, BCBAC LSA Cooperator Mr. Wahid Manegad recognized this achievement as a breakthrough for GSKP and their cooperative as they were certified as Coco-LSA. He embraced the challenge of disseminating coconut production and processing technologies to fellow farmers.

A Coco-LSA represents a farm that incorporates applicable coconut-based technologies, employs feasible farming strategies, and operates successfully, thus serving as an exemplary model for emulation.

These Coco-LSAs will serve as practical areas to complement classroom learning, training venues for hands-on learning, and sources of coconut-related extension services, further enhancing the coconut industry in the region.