The Agricultural Training Institute - Central Luzon (ATI-CL), in partnership with the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) - Aurora, Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT), and the LandBank of the Philippines, successfully conducted the Training on Financial Literacy and Management for Coconut Farmers on June 22-24, 2026 at Baler, Aurora. The three-day training was attended by twenty-five (25) coconut farmers.
The activity aimed to strengthen the financial management capabilities of coconut farmers by equipping them with practical knowledge and skills in financial literacy, bookkeeping, agri-enterprise development, and available agricultural credit programs. The training forms part of the continuing efforts of partner agencies to promote financial sustainability, informed decision-making, and improved livelihood opportunities among coconut farming communities.
The program formally opened with welcome remarks from Aldrin G. Veneracion, Acting Division Chief of PCA-Aurora. This was followed by a message of support from Ronell D. Lagaria, Technical Support Staff IV of ATI-CL, who emphasized the importance of financial literacy in helping farmers manage their resources effectively and build resilient agricultural enterprises.
Throughout the training, participants gained valuable insights from resource speakers representing partner agencies and institutions. Christian M. Bernabe of PCA-Aurora discussed the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP), while Ronell D. Lagaria, facilitated a session on Filipino Values. Franque Siena-an M. Mata of ASCOT, discussed the Business Cycle and the Characteristics of a Successful Agri-Enterprise. Meanwhile, Hezel M. Guillen,ย Instructor III, conducted sessions on Financial Recording, Bookkeeping, and Auditing, and Marilyn M. Niegos, Acting Account Officer, of LANDBANK provided an orientation on Agricultural Credit Programs available to coconut farmers.
To further enrich the learning experience, participants actively engaged in discussions and practical exercises designed to improve their understanding of financial management and enterprise development. The activity encouraged farmers to adopt sound financial practices that can contribute to the growth and sustainability of their farming operations.
"Napakahalaga ng mga seminar na tulad nito dahil ang kaalaman ay hindi kailanman mananakaw. Marami kaming natutunan mula sa mga resource speakers na maaari naming magamit sa aming pagsasaka at maibahagi sa iba pang miyembro ng aming asosasyon. Sana ay mas marami pang kabataan ang mahikayat na dumalo sa mga ganitong pagsasanay upang maipagpatuloy nila ang mga natutunan para sa susunod na henerasyon ng mga magsasaka,โ Asrielita A. Del Rosario of Ibona Diamond Farmers Association shared her impressions during the training.
The activity concluded with words of encouragement from the organizers, who challenged the participants to apply the knowledge and skills they gained throughout the training and share these learnings within their respective communities. Through continuous learning, responsible financial management, and collective action, coconut farmers can further strengthen their livelihoods and contribute to a more sustainable and productive agricultural sector.
Written by:ย Irish Joy R. Supan, Ben-Hur D. Colorina
