Reinforcing its commitment to strengthening the coconut industry and empowering coconut farmers through knowledge and skills, the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) in MIMAROPA, in partnership with the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), successfully conducted seven batches of the “Training on Coconut Production with Good Agricultural Practices (GAP)” from April 6 to May 1, 2026, across various provinces in the region.
In his message of support, ATI-MIMAROPA Center Director Pat Andrew B. Barrientos emphasized the importance of improving farm management and production techniques to enhance productivity, ensure the quality of coconut products, and promote a more sustainable and competitive coconut industry in the Philippines.
The training series began with an overview of the Philippine coconut industry, highlighting key initiatives such as the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan. Participants also underwent a “moving exam” to assess their baseline knowledge before participating in discussions on coconut morphology and seed nut structure, which provided them with a deeper understanding of plant functions and their significance in coconut production.
Then, farmers were introduced to different coconut varieties and their unique characteristics. Discussions also focused on sustainable plantation management, including pest and disease identification, their effects on productivity, and farm diversification strategies aimed at increasing farmers’ income.
To reinforce learning, they engaged in hands-on activities at the Learning Sites for Agriculture. They practiced seedbed preparation, proper planting layouts, and the transplanting of coconut seedlings using appropriate agricultural techniques. They also learned and applied both the square and triangular planting systems, gaining practical experience in proper spacing and field establishment.
As a powerful testament, a graduate from a previous training batch shared personal experiences, highlighting the practical benefits of adopting GAP technologies on the farm. The discussion emphasized how these technologies can improve productivity, enhance crop quality, and promote more sustainable and efficient farming practices.
Technical experts from ATI-MIMAROPA, PCA, Mindoro State University, and private sector partners served as resource persons. These included Ms. Cristina G. Magnaye, Ms. Roseanne D. Nilo, Ms. Alma M. Catibog, Ms. Charlot G. Magsino, Mr. Jayson N. Erondo, Ms. Karen T. Vicente, Mr. Mark Joseph D. Buñag, Ms. Noeme Kate K. Ben-Ek, Ms. Paula Mae T. Ciudad, Ms. Mary Rose V. Macairan, Mr. Mark Joseph G. Lugatoc, Mr. Tristan Jay M. Abranilla, Ms. She Pap F. Faderagao, Mr. Ramil D. Atienza, Ms. Jonna Marie F. Portales, Mr. Jaymar T. Rodique, Ms. Meriel L. Largado, Mr. Rommel F. Fababaer, and Ms. Gretchen F. Fababaer.
The trainings were conducted at the Provincial Tourism and Agricultural Development Center, Santa Cruz, Marinduque, on April 6-10; Amorseko Resort, Sta. Maria, Romblon, on April 6-10; DosFourDos Integrated Farm, Aborlan, Palawan, on April 13-17; ATI-MIMAROPA, Naujan, Oriental Mindoro, on April 13-17; Bonsay Farm, Bataraza, Palawan, on April 20-24; The Soft Bed Homestay, San Vicente, Palawan, on April 27 – May 1; and PEMS Pension and Restaurant, Taytay, Palawan, on April 27 – May 1.
Each batch was attended by coconut farmers from the respective provinces, with a total of 124 participants.
