“Napakarami po naming natutunan. Maa-apply namin ito at maibabahagi sa aming kapwa magsasaka.”
With these words, Ms. Carmencita S. Saez of the Antipolo Corn and Vegetable Growers Association summed up her experience after attending the Training on Coconut Production with Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), conducted by the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) in MIMAROPA in partnership with the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) – Marinduque, on March 9–13, 2026, in Gasan, Marinduque.
The five-day training brought together 24 coconut farmers eager to improve their farming practices and increase productivity. For Ms. Saez and her fellow participants, the training was more than just a series of lectures—it was a valuable opportunity to learn, engage, and grow.
The opening program was attended by Mr. Judy DP. Pingco, Division Chief I of the PCA– Marinduque. In his message, he emphasized the importance of supporting coconut farmers through ongoing training. He said that providing farmers with up-to-date knowledge and appropriate technologies is key to strengthening the coconut industry and promoting sustainable farming in the province.
“Iisa-isang itinuro sa amin—from land preparation hanggang pest and disease management,” Ms. Saez shared, emphasizing how detailed and practical the training sessions were.
One of the highlights of the training was the interactive “moving examination”, where participants learned to identify different parts of the coconut. This activity tested what they already knew and encouraged curiosity and active participation.
Further discussions focused on coconut morphology and the different varieties of coconut—tall, dwarf, and hybrid—helping farmers understand which types are best suited for their farms. They also learned proper plantation management practices, including planting distances, soil preparation, fertilization, and regular farm maintenance.
Equally important were the lectures on pest and disease management. Farmers gained practical strategies to prevent and control common threats to coconut production, ensuring healthier and more resilient crops.
The concept of farm diversification was also introduced, encouraging participants to explore additional income sources by integrating other crops, livestock, or alternative livelihood activities into their farms.
To reinforce their learning, participants engaged in hands-on activities such as seedbed preparation, farm layout design, and coconut planting. These practical exercises enabled them to apply their knowledge and build confidence in adopting GAP.
Beyond the knowledge gained, Ms. Saez expressed her gratitude for the overall training experience, saying, “Maraming salamat po sa ATI at PCA, hindi lang po kaalaman ang aming nakuha kundi inspirasyon para mas pagbutihin pa ang aming pagsasaka.”
