The Agricultural Training Institute-Central Luzon (ATI-CL) conducted a five-day "Training on Processing of Coconut Products and By-Products" under the Coconut Farmers Information Development Program (CFIDP) held at the Azbahaen Agri-Tourism and Training Center Inc. in Baler, Aurora on August 26-30, 2024.
The training aimed to enhance the skills of 25 coconut farmers of Maria and Baler, Aurora from the Rural Improvement Club (RIC) of Gupa, Dipaculao, and the Bazal Agrarian Reform Cooperative (BARCoop).
Resource speakers, including Mr. Gilberto Galicia, a processor of coconut products and by-products from Nakar, Quezon, and business counselors from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Aurora, Mr. Emmanuel Macatiag and Ms. Heyreen Fe Ecura, provided valuable insights. Ms. Fria Joy Soriano, Dorm Manager II, also contributed to the training.
The program covered essential topics such as the opportunities within the coconut industry, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), processing techniques for coconut products and by-products, and product packaging, labeling, and marketing. The training sessions involved lecture-discussions, practical demonstrations, and hands-on activities.
Furthermore, the participants learned to produce a variety of coconut products, including Coco Toyo, Coco Nectar, Coco Cola, Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO), Coco Burger, Coco Yema, Coco Jam, Coco Blossom Tea, Aromatic Oil (pandan scent), and more.
A panel consisting of representatives from the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), ATI-CL, DTI, and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Casiguran evaluated and critiqued the products during a tasting session.
Moreover, the training concluded with the development of a group re-entry plan, outlining how participants intend to apply the skills and knowledge they acquired. This initiative is expected to boost local coconut processing ventures and contribute to the overall growth of the coconut industry in Central Luzon.
