LARBECO Compound, Lamitan, Basilan — In a significant step toward enhancing the coconut industry in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), the Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center XII (ATI-RTC XII) successfully led the Farmer-Level Training on Good Quality Copra Production and Processing (Batch 1). The three-day training, held from September 8–10, 2025, at the LARBECO Compound in Limo-ok, Lamitan, Basilan, gathered enthusiastic local coconut farmers eager to refine their knowledge and skills.

The program opened with a warm welcome message from Mr. Diosdado A. Espinosa Jr., Division Chief I of PCA Basilan, who emphasized the importance of continuous learning and collaboration among farmers to improve copra quality and ultimately increase their income. Following this, Engr. Mokles P. Buisan, Training Specialist II of ATI-RTC XII, presented an overview of the training objectives and modules, highlighting the practical and in-depth lessons participants would gain throughout the sessions.

The training featured several expert resource persons who shared their technical expertise in various aspects of coconut production and processing. Mr. Abdullah A. Haruddain, ROS-Superintendent of MAFAR-Basilan, discussed Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) in Coconut Production and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) in Copra Processing, emphasizing food safety, sanitation, and efficient handling procedures. Meanwhile, Mr. Karramchan N. Sallim, Agricultural Technologist of OPAg-Basilan, reinforced these key principles with a detailed overview of GMP applications in ensuring high-quality copra production.

A highlight of the training was the session by Mr. Lemuel M. Soriano, Senior Agriculturist of PCA-Basilan, who tackled critical topics such as Food/Fodder Contaminants (MOSH-MOAH), guiding farmers on how to prevent contamination and meet market standards. He also presented a Coconut Industry Situationer, offering valuable insights into production trends, export opportunities, and industry gaps that need to be addressed for sustained growth.

The program concluded on September 10, 2025, with a certificate awarding ceremony for all participants, marking not just the successful completion of the training but also a key milestone in empowering Basilan’s coconut farmers. Through this initiative, they are now better equipped with knowledge and technical expertise to produce high-quality copra, contributing to a more resilient and sustainable coconut industry in BARMM.