The Agricultural Training Institute - Satellite Training Center XII (ATI-STC XII) held a transformative 3-Day Training on Virgin Coconut Oil, Coco-Sweetener, and Its By-products (Batch 3) from November 20-22, 2024, at the USM Compound in Kabacan, Cotabato. This event equipped coconut farmers with valuable knowledge and skills to harness the full potential of coconuts, paving the way for diversified income streams and sustainable agricultural practices.

The training opened with an inspiring message from OIC-Assistant Director Hannadi S. Guiamad-Pompong, who emphasized the importance of value addition in empowering farmers to boost their livelihoods while contributing to local economic growth. Following this, Technical Staff Mr. Normuhaymin B. Arsad introduced the program's objectives and highlighted the growing demand for products like Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) and Coco-Sweeteners both locally and internationally. His presentation set the stage for a deep dive into the opportunities within the coconut industry.

Participants gained practical insights from industry experts throughout the training. On the first day, Angel D. Bustamante, General Manager of SOX Food, discussed the essentials of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) for VCO production. His guidance on hygiene and quality standards underscored the importance of producing internationally competitive products. The second day was dedicated to hands-on learning, with sessions led by PCA North Cotabato Coconut Development Officer Russel Jed Dela Pena and PCA Sultan Kudarat Division Chief I Gregg Arellaga. Topics covered included VCO extraction methods, Coco-Sweetener production, and utilizing coconut by-products like husks, shells, and water for innovative products.

The final day featured a visit to the Makarious Food Processing facility in Surallah, South Cotabato, where participants observed high-quality VCO production and good manufacturing practices in action. This practical exposure reinforced the theoretical lessons and provided a clear vision of how to implement these processes effectively.

The training concluded with a graduation ceremony, celebrating the farmers' commitment and the organizers' efforts. Participants left equipped with essential skills and a renewed drive to innovate and contribute to the growing market for coconut-based products, strengthening their role in the agricultural value chain.