The Agricultural Training Institute – Central Luzon (ATI-CL), in partnership with the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) Bataan, successfully conducted the “Training on Coconut Hybridization and Nursery Management – Batch 1” from May 6 to 8, 2026 at Luis Nate Farm and Resort.
The three-day training equipped 25 coconut farmers from Bataan with essential knowledge and practical skills in selecting quality seed nuts and seedlings to help establish productive, healthy, and sustainable coconut plantations.
During the opening program, Laarni C. Quintas, Administrative Support Staff III of ATI-CL, introduced the participants, resource persons, and members of the Training Management Team. Luis Nate, LSA Cooperator of Luis Nate Farm and Resort, formally welcomed the participants and guests.
Meanwhile, Dr. Emmanuel L. Orogo, Officer-in-Charge Center Director of ATI-CL, delivered an inspirational message highlighting the vital role and contributions of farmers and fisherfolk in ensuring food security and agricultural development, in line with the celebration of this year’s Buwan ng Magsasaka at Mangingisda.
Kimberly T. Miguel, Technical Support Staff IV of ATI-CL, also presented an overview of the training, discussing its objectives and expected outcomes for the participants and the local coconut industry.
The training covered key topics such as the Overview of Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan, the Coconut Industry in the Philippines, Introduction to Coconut Production, Nursery Establishment, Proper Care and Maintenance of Seed Nuts and Seedlings in the Nursery, and Coconut Hybrid Farm Management Practices.
Mr. Dodie I. Oclarino, Agriculturist from PCA-Bataan, as well as representatives from the Municipal Agriculture Offices of Hermosa and Dinalupihan, Mr. Bobby Kiel DL. Jorge and Emmanuel James T. Aldos, shared their expertise and facilitated discussions and practical sessions throughout the activity.
“Sa loob ng tatlong araw, marami kaming natutunan—mula sa pagle-layout, paggawa ng nursery, hanggang sa hybridization. Napakagandang karanasan ito na maibabahagi namin sa kapwa magsasaka at magagamit sa sarili naming taniman. Hindi biro ang halaga ng ganitong training, kaya malaking biyaya ito para sa amin. Mas naiintindihan namin dahil actual namin itong ginawa at natutunan. Hindi lang ito mananatili sa amin kundi ibabahagi rin namin sa iba,” Alma C. De Guzman participant from Palili, Samal, Bataan said.
The training forms part of ATI-CL’s continuing efforts to strengthen the capabilities of coconut farmers and support the sustainable development of the coconut industry in Central Luzon.
Written by: Kimberly T. Miguel
