The third batch of the Capacity Building on Institutional and Organizational Management for Shared Processing Facilities took place from September 4-6, 2024, at the Coconut Small Farmers Multipurpose Cooperative in Brgy. Cebuano, Tupi, South Cotabato. Thirty coconut farmers participated in the transformative three-day program, designed to empower them with essential management skills to effectively operate and manage shared processing facilities in the region.

The program kicked off with Mr. Normuhaymin B. Arsad, CFIDP Technical Staff, who welcomed the participants and provided a comprehensive overview of the coconut industry in South Cotabato. His presentation shed light on the challenges and opportunities within the sector, providing context for the intensive training to follow. In the afternoon session, Ms. Rose Carmen Sustiguer, an Executive Coach and Training Consultant, led a workshop on Leadership and Values Formation, prompting farmers to reflect on their leadership styles and the role of ethical conduct in building strong cooperatives.

Day two of the program centered on cooperative management. Ms. Ma. Febe F. Ferolino delivered an in-depth session on Policy Formulation and Parliamentary Procedure, which helped farmers understand how to develop effective policies and guide cooperative decision-making processes. Her afternoon session covered the functions of managerial systems, emphasizing decision-making models and strategies for cooperative operations.

On the final day, the focus shifted to Professional Business Ethics, with Mr. Darwin Mendoza leading a discussion on ethical conduct in business. Participants explored the principles of ethical behavior, the significance of integrity, and the importance of ethical decision-making for sustainable success in cooperative management.

The training concluded with a graduation ceremony, where participants received certificates in recognition of their dedication and learning. This intensive capacity-building program provided South Cotabato's coconut farmers with renewed purpose and equipped them with the practical skills to lead their cooperatives effectively, driving progress for the local coconut industry.