LOS ANGELES, Butuan City- Sixty (60) coconut farmers from various municipalities in Surigao del Norte and Agusan del Norte recently attended two batches of the Training on Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for Coconut Pests and Diseases. The training took place at JB Nature’s Farm in Brgy. Sukailang, Surigao City and CountryFields Agri in Km 8, Brgy. Tungao, Butuan City on August 7-9 and 12-14, 2024, respectively.

During the training, the farmers learned about the basics and importance of proper coconut management. They had hands-on activities where they collected and identified various types of insects, pests, and diseases affecting coconuts. Additionally, they learned basic practices for managing these issues, including pests, diseases, and weeds. The participants also observed the process of setting up a Pheromone Trap in the field. As part of the training, they were encouraged to present their findings and field experiences.

Moreover, staff from the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) 13 served as the resource persons during the training which aimed at enhancing farmers’ knowledge and skills on IPM for coconut.

The said training is conducted in coordination with PCA 13 and the Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center (ATI-RTC) 13 under the supervision of Regional Manager III Joel B. Oclarit and OIC Center Director Jessie V. Beldia. Spearheaded by the Career Development and Management Section (CDMS) of ATI under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) Program in the Caraga region.