Simunul, Tawi-Tawi – The Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center XII (ATI-RTC XII) successfully concluded the fourth batch of the Farmer-Level Training on the Production of Coconut and By-products, held from May 26 to 28, 2025, in the municipality of Simunul. The activity is part of the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) aimed at enhancing coconut-based livelihoods and improving socio-economic conditions in the region.
The program opened with a warm and heartfelt message from Mrs. Nur-aina B. Ingkagan, Division Chief of the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) – Tawi-Tawi, who welcomed participants and set an encouraging tone for the event. Mr. Merzaq A. Ulama, Technical Staff from ATI-RTC XII, formally acknowledged the participants and expressed gratitude for their presence and enthusiasm.
Engr. Mokles P. Buisan, Alternate Focal Person for CFIDP BARMM, presented the training objectives, emphasizing its role in improving coconut production practices, expanding economic opportunities, and promoting community resilience. He encouraged participants to fully engage in the learning process while building camaraderie among peers.
A key resource person, Mrs. Ingkagan, shared in-depth knowledge on coconut production, focusing on the implementation of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). Her session equipped farmers with essential insights into quality assurance, food safety, and sustainability in processing coconut by-products, highlighting their potential to generate added value and income.
On the final day, Hon. Mayor Wasila T. Abdulrahman graced the training with an empowering message, urging participants to maximize the skills and knowledge gained to improve their livelihoods. Her presence underscored the commitment of the local government to the upliftment of coconut farmers and the broader goal of inclusive economic development. The training concluded with closing remarks from Mrs. Ingkagan, rounding off a highly productive and impactful learning experience for the coconut farmers of Simunul.
