Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte—The Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center XII (ATI-RTC XII) successfully completed its inaugural Farmer-Level Training on the Coconut-Coffee System under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) Program, held from July 22-24, 2024. The training aimed to enhance the income potential of coconut farmers by integrating coffee production into their farming systems.

Engr. Mokles P. Buisan, the CFIDP BARMM Alternate Focal Person, extended a warm welcome to the 35 participants, representing various local farming communities, and provided an outline of the training. ATI Admin Support Staff Merzaq A. Ulama also acknowledged the participants, emphasizing the significance of their active engagement in the program.

Mr. Solaiman B. Kabasalan from MAFAR-Maguindanao led the training sessions, offering an in-depth exploration of coffee varieties, site selection, and income-generating opportunities in coffee farming. He provided updates on the top coffee-producing regions, equipping participants with valuable insights into coffee cultivation as an income-enhancing supplement to coconut farming.

The training concluded with Mrs. Noran M. Panalunsong, owner of Al-Noor Salam Farm, who expressed her gratitude to the participants and assured them of continued support. Her message emphasized a commitment to sustainable progress in their farming communities, encouraging farmers to apply their new knowledge to improve practices and profitability.