To equip farmers with essential skills and knowledge on Good Agricultural Practices, the Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center 2 in collaboration with the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), conducted series of training programs on “Coconut Production and Management with Good Agricultural Practices.”

The first leg of the training was held on March 18-20, 2025, in Tabbac, Buguey, Cagayan, participated by 25 NCFRS-registered coconut farmers. Mr. Jerwin Arellano, an Agricultural Extension Worker (AEW) from the municipality, graced the opening program, alongside PCA and ATI staff who served as resource persons and training facilitators. The team included Ms. Jane Agpawa and Mr. Diosevan Romo from PCA, as well as Engr. Thommy D. Baquiran and Ms. Geraldine F. Baligat from ATI-RTC 2.

During the three-day event, participants engaged in lectures, group discussions, and hands-on activities. Topics covered included farm planning, coconut growth stages, field lay-outing, planting techniques, and fertilization methods. The training culminated in a closing program led by Dr. Maurieann M. Turingan, OIC-Chief of Partnership amd Accreditation Section (PAS) and the Municipal Agriculture Office staff of Buguey.

A similar training session took place from March 25-27, 2025, in Iguig, Cagayan, with another batch of 25 NCFRS-registered coconut farmers. Hon. Juditas L. Trinidad, Vice-Mayor of Iguig, opened the event, alongside PCA and ATI facilitators.

Participants underwent lectures, group exercises, and hands-on demonstrations, with field applications conducted at the farm of Mr. Elimar Callo in Brgy. San Esteban, Iguig. These activities helped reinforce the best practices in farm layout, planting, and fertilization.

The closing program was attended by Dr. Maurieann M. Turingan, Chief of PAS, and the Municipal Agriculturist of Iguig. To support the farmers in implementing their newfound knowledge, starter kits including shovels, digging bars, bolos, and garden hoes were distributed.

Through these training sessions, CFIDP aims to empower coconut farmers with the necessary expertise to adopt Good Agricultural Practices, ensuring increased productivity and sustainable farm management. The successful implementation of these programs reflects the commitment of government agencies in modernizing the coconut industry and improving the livelihoods of Filipino farmers.