Participants engage in a field practicum on coconut plantation management.

PILI, Camarines Sur- In support of the Coconut Farmers and Industry Trust Fund (CFITF) Act (Republic Act 11524), the Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center V (ATI Bicol) held the Training of Trainers on Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) for Coconut from April 7–11, 2025, at their center in Pili, Camarines Sur. The training aimed to strengthen the skills of six (6) Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) and nineteen (19) farmer-leaders in food safety, product quality, environmental protection, and worker welfare.

The opening program formally introduced the participants, guests, and team members. Dr. Emmanuel L. Orogo, ATI Bicol Assistant Center Director, gave an inspirational message. After that, Ms. Sofia Jusherine I. Bucad from PCA Albay-Catanduanes discussed the current situation of the coconut industry, followed by Ms. Federica M. Alim of PCA Camarines Sur I, who explained the coconut plant’s growth stages and physiology.

The second day started with a session on Coconut Plantation and Management by Mr. Randy T. Padre. In the afternoon, Mr. Jay-Jay D. Recamara covered Pest and Disease Management, Farm Diversification, and Postharvest Handling, giving participants a deeper understanding of managing coconut farms efficiently.

On the third day, Ms. Ma. Delpha Estrada discussed the Economics of Coconut Production, while Mr. Edgardo C. Nacario presented a detailed guide to GAP Certification. Ms. Justine Rose C. Tubig later taught participants essential Facilitation and Communication Skills for sharing knowledge in their communities.

The fourth day was spent on a Field Practicum at the PCA-Albay Research Center in Guinobatan, Albay, where participants practiced plantation management and conducted a mock GAP inspection under the guidance of experts.

Participants presented their mock inspection reports and re-entry plans on the final day, took their post-test, and attended the closing ceremony. All participants successfully passed the training. Moving forward, 20 re-entry plans will be monitored over the next six months to ensure knowledge sharing with local communities and organizations.