Kabacan, Cotabato – Thirty coconut farmers from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) enhanced their knowledge and skills on value-adding techniques during the Training on the Production of Coconut Products and By-Products, held from May 19 to 21, 2025. The activity was spearheaded by the Agricultural Training Institute - Regional Training Center XII (ATI-RTC XII) under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP), and conducted at the ATI Satellite Training Center XII, USM Compound, Kabacan.

Engr. Mokles P. Buisan, Alternate CFIDP Focal Person for BARMM, officially opened the program with a warm welcome and a clear presentation of the training’s objectives. He emphasized the importance of harnessing coconut production not only as a livelihood but as a pathway toward regional economic growth through value-adding. Participants were encouraged to maximize the learning experience by gaining practical skills, building connections, and deepening their understanding of coconut processing.

Key sessions were delivered by experts in the field. Mr. Wahid K. Maneged, Chairman of the BCBAC, shared his expertise on coconut food processing, focusing on the production of virgin coconut oil (VCO) and the application of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). Meanwhile, Mr. Nasino G. Umbi Jr., Agriculturist II of the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) – Maguindanao, discussed Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) in coconut production and the development of by-products, providing participants with critical insights to enhance quality and market competitiveness.

The three-day training concluded with a closing program led by ATI-RTC XII Information Officer II Jon Ian Belo. In his message, he congratulated the participants for completing the training and expressed appreciation for their dedication and the collaborative efforts of all involved. The training marks another milestone in empowering BARMM coconut farmers toward sustainable enterprise development and increased livelihood opportunities.