“LEARN to EARN!”
This was the highlights of Mr. Pat Andrew B. Barrientos, Center Director of ATI MIMAROPA as he delivered the message during the opening program of Training of Trainers on Coconut Farm Business School (FBS) this morning.
He emphasized the importance of training in managing their coconut farm while treating it as a viable farm business. “This training will help promote the entrepreneurial mindset of farmers by emphasizing the agribusiness side of coconut production to generate more income and develop their capacity for running a profitable business.”
Dir. Barrientos likewise reminded the participants to keep their focus on the training as they will be the government’s extension arm in the field when it comes to coco farming.
He also explained the RA 11524 or the Coconut Farmers Industry Trust Fund and its corresponding components emphasizing the support they can get from each partner agency.
“Samahan nyo kami sa pag-abot ng pangarap at pag-angat ng buhay ng ating mga coconut farmers,” Dir. Barrientos said as he ended his message.
Meanwhile, Engr. Evangelyn Barcibal, Senior Agriculturist of Philippine Coconut Authority – Oriental Mindoro also graced the opening program. She briefly described the situation and challenges of coconut industry in the country, particularly in the province. She said that with the help of Coconut Farmers Industry Development Plan, it will aid the coco farmers to augment their production and income thru the support of different partner-agencies.
The TOT on Coconut FBS is being conducted from November 6 to 17, 2023 at ATI, Barcenaga, Naujan, Oriental Mindoro with participants from the Oriental Mindoro Association of Learning Sites for Agriculture.
