On September 23, 2024, the Municipal Gymnasium of Lebak, Sultan Kudarat, was filled with excitement as 304 coconut farmers—164 from Kalamansig and 140 from Lebak—celebrated their successful completion of the School-on-the-Air (SOA) program on Coconut Production and Processing. This program, under the Coconut Farmers Industry Development Plan (CFIDP), provided participants with valuable skills and knowledge essential for improving productivity and sustainability in coconut farming.
Themed "Masaganang Coco-Buhayan Radyo Eskwela sa Pagniniyugan," the SOA program ran from July 8 to August 19, 2024, through 16 episodes broadcasted on 91.1 FM Max FM Tacurong City and 105.1 FM Radio Natin Lebak. It covered various topics in coconut production, pest and disease management, value-adding, and post-harvest handling, offering farmers practical insights to enhance their agricultural practices and support their communities’ economic growth.
During the graduation ceremony, outstanding farmers from both Kalamansig and Lebak were acknowledged for their dedication and achievements. Additionally, Certificates of Appreciation were awarded to subject matter experts, SOA Coordinators, and Municipal Agriculture Offices for their vital contributions to the program. The ISS Chief, Ms. Hannadi Guiamad-Pompong, formally presented the graduates, while Senior Agriculturist and PASS Chief, Ms. Shirley L. Beldia, confirmed the graduates and delivered an inspiring keynote address on the future of coconut farming in the region.
Hon. Frederick F. Celestial, Municipal Mayor of Lebak, attended the ceremony alongside representatives from the Philippine Coconut Authority-Region XII and Sultan Kudarat. Municipal Agriculturists Mr. Rene L. Sanchez from Lebak and Mr. Reno Berico, Acting Municipal Agriculturist of Kalamansig, were also present, joined by SOA Coordinators from both municipalities.
This graduation marks a significant step in advancing coconut farming in Sultan Kudarat, equipping farmers with enhanced knowledge and practices that will contribute to the region's agricultural progress and stability.