To hone the knowledge of potential trainers in coconut products and by-products, the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) in MIMAROPA, in partnership with the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) Palawan, conducted the first batch of the Training of Trainers (TOT) on the Production of Coconut Products and By-Products (Food and Non-Food) at Ilagan Catering and Events Center, Brgy. Poblacion District II, Brooke’s Point, Palawan on September 2-6, 2024.
Focusing on the production of coconut food products, the participants received lectures on Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Program (CFIDP) and coconut farm diversification, food safety, good manufacturing practices, and opportunities in coconut production, along with other relevant topics. These were delivered by ATI-MIMAROPA technical staff Ms. Cristina G. Magnaye, Training Specialist III/CFIDP Point Person, and Ms. Jean Alexa E. Templo, Dormitory Manager II.
The participants were also engaged in various hands-on activities such as Coco Cola Processing using coco sap and making coco pansit, which were assessed by PCA and ATI staff, particularly in terms of taste, texture, and appearance.
Meanwhile, as part of the non-food component, Mr. James Paul O. Laceste, owner of Joe’s Integrated Farm, was invited to provide knowledge on biochar production. Moreover, the participants experienced actual coco twine making, witnessed the utilization of coco husk and coco peat, and operated a decorticating machine at the Oring Orings Rice, Coconut, and Corn Farmers Association.
Aside from the processed coconut products, the participants were also tasked with writing their re-entry plans as their output for the training. A total of 20 coconut farmers participated in the TOT and expressed their appreciation for the knowledge gained about coconut products beyond those they commonly produce.
“Unang-una, maraming salamat sa pamunuan ng ATI at PCA sapagkat marami akong natutunan sa pagsasanay na ito na aking maibabahagi sa aming mga kasama, lalo na sa aming asosasyon. Nag-iisip po ang aming asosasyon ng negosyo upang magkaroon ng kita. Dahil nakasanayan natin dati na simpleng copra at tuba lamang ang ating nakukuha, ngunit maaari pala nating i-improve ang mga produktong ito,” said Ms. Leslie E. Bantilin, president of the Iluluway Coconut Farmers Association.
