HINATUAN, Surigao del Sur – In partnership with the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) through the ATI - Regional Training Center XIII conducted a five-day Inspectors and Quality Assurance Training on Coco Coir Processing and Coconet Bio-engineering Installation and Maintenance from December 9-13, 2024, at Amparitas Integrated Natural Farm.

The training was attended by 33 participants, composed of staff from the regional and national offices of PCA and personnel from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). Luz Brenda Balibera, Division Chief II from the PCA Central Office, presented the training overview, objectives, and output. She emphasized the training's relevance to the Coconut Farmers Industry Development Plan (CFIDP).

Engr. Ramon R. Barbosa, owner of Amparitas Integrated Natural Farm, a certified Learning Site for Agriculture of ATI, discussed the standards for installing geonets as a bio-engineering solution and the preparation of raw materials.

“Through this training, we gained valuable knowledge to support our coconut farmers and enhance the coir industry. As an inspector, I appreciated the hands-on activities, which allowed us to experience the work at the farmer level. We will share our insights with our respective coconut farmer organizations,” said John Kevin E. Bag-ao, a participant from PCA XI.