On July 3-5, 2024, the Agricultural Training Institute - Regional Training Center XII (ATI RTC XII) hosted the fourth batch of the Coconut-Cacao Farming Training at its main hall in San Felipe, Tantangan, South Cotabato. This initiative, conducted under the Coconut Farmers & Industry Development Plan (CFIDP), brought together farmers from Tantangan, South Cotabato, and Lebak, Sultan Kudarat, with the aim of equipping them with essential skills to integrate cacao into coconut farming.

The training opened with a warm welcome from CFIDP Technical Staff Ms. Eljean B. Villasista, who provided an overview of the three-day session. OIC-Center Director Shirley L. Beldia also welcomed participants, encouraging active learning and setting a positive tone for the training. Additionally, Dormitory Manager II, Mr. Jim C. Raborar, shared the house rules and facilitated team-building activities to foster collaboration.

This training aimed to enhance participants' technical knowledge and understanding of cacao production within coconut farms, focusing on sustainable farming practices. Through interactive sessions, farmers gained insights on intercrop management techniques and practices essential for maintaining a productive and profitable coconut-cacao system.

By the end of the training, participants expressed eagerness to apply these innovative methods, which promise to boost farm productivity and increase profitability, supporting sustainable agriculture in Region XII. This training aligns with CFIDP's broader mission to empower coconut farmers with diversified income opportunities and sustainable crop management skills.