The ATI-RTC XII Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) conducted the Training on the Production of Coconut Products and By-Products for Coconut Farmers in BARMM (Batch 3). The training was conducted in Brgy. Luuk Pandan, Bongao, Tawi-Tawi on December 3-5, 2024.

The training started with a welcome address from Punong Barangay Hja. Aida J. Najil. She welcomed the 31 local farmers participating in the program. Engr. Nurphy H. Ayub, MMO-MAFAR of Tawi-Tawi, also extended his support to the local farmers of Barangay Luuk Pandan. Mr. Nurdin A. Laja, Senior Agriculturist of PCA Tawi-Tawi, also encouraged the farmers to complete the training, emphasizing its potential to empower them, improve their livelihoods, and contribute to the local economy.

Engr. Mokles P. Buisan, CFIDP BARMM focal person, provided an overview of the activity and outlined its objectives. He encouraged participants to immerse themselves in the three-day training, to learn, enjoy, and form new connections.

Mr. Oliver O. Principe, Agriculturist II of PCA- Tawi-tawi served as a resource person who discussed Good Manufacturing Practices for Coconut production. He highlighted that GMP is crucial for product quality, safety, regulatory compliance, and meeting the consumer's demands. Furthermore, Mr. Nurdin A. Laja, Senior agriculturist of PCA- Tawi-Tawi, also served as a resource person discussing Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) on Coconut, ensuring healthy and productive coconut.

The second day of the training focused on practical applications, led by PCA Tawi-Tawi. Participants engaged in hands-on activities, including the production of Virgin Coconut Oil.

The training ended with a graduation ceremony in the presence of Mrs. Nur-aina B. Ingkagan, Division Chief I of PCA-Tawi-Tawi, honoring the farmers' dedication and the organizers' hard work. The participants gained valuable skills and motivation to develop new coconut-based products, thereby enhancing their position in the agricultural industry. Lastly, the Punong Barangay of Luuk Pandan gave her closing remarks praising the farmers for completing the 3 days activities and showcasing interest in coconut products and by-products.
This training was facilitated by Mokles P. Buisan, Training Specialist II, with the support of Merzaq A. Ulama, CFIDP Technical Staff.