The Agricultural Training Institute-Central Luzon (ATI-CL) conducted a four-day Training on Processing of Non-Food Coconut Products and By-productsβ under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) held at the Azbahen Leisure Farm, Baler, Aurora from October 22 to 25, 2024.
The participants of the said training consisted of 21 coconut farmers from Baler, Aurora. The training aimed to expand their knowledge in processing non-food coconut products.
Ms. Mariel Baldoz, Project Officer, along with Ms. Ruth Reyes, Technical Support Staff, led the training.
Mr. Juan F. Millar Jr., Ms. Warren Velasco, and Ms. Geremy Batang-e from the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA); Representatives from Aurora-Agri Venture Cooperative, including Mr. Aldwin Querijero, Mr. Joey Cabagnot, Mr. Romel Go, and Ms. Julideth Go, served as a resource person and shared their expertise and experiences in coconut production within their cooperative.
Furthermore, the training included the process for producing coconut by-products, through hands-on activities at the Aurora Agri Venture Cooperative (AAVP). In addition, the participants gained practical experience in making coco peat, coco fiber/coir, and coco rope. These products are used in various industries, such as agriculture and construction, providing new income opportunities for farmers.
In addition to practical training, the participants learned how to maintain the quality of their products to remain competitive in the market.
Further, the participants submitted a re-entry plan as their final output as their guide on how they would apply their new skills and knowledge within their communities.
Β ATI-CL will monitor these plans for six months to assess the training's impact and its contribution to improving the livelihoods of coconut farmers in Aurora.
