An entrepreneur demonstrates his innovative coconut vinegar with added flavor during a product presentation.

MASBATE CITY, Masbate- The first leg of the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) Techno Forum 2025 was successfully held on April 3, 2025, in the Province of Masbate. The forum aimed to strengthen the local coconut industry by building the knowledge and capacities of its 52 participants, targeting at least 80% improvement in understanding. It brought together coconut farmers, agri-entrepreneurs, private business owners, and implementing agencies in a collaborative gathering for learning and networking.

The forum focused on enterprise development and value addition, highlighting how farmers can turn raw coconut products into profitable, market-ready goods. Five resource speakers presented topics on producing virgin coconut oil (VCO), coco sugar, coconut vinegar, and coco coir. These sessions opened up new ideas and income opportunities for participants and emphasized the importance of product development and diversification.

Aside from production techniques, the forum tackled important aspects of branding, packaging, and market linkages. These discussions showed how farmers and cooperatives could improve product value and reach bigger markets. It also provided farmers with information on where and how to access government programs and services designed to support coconut-based enterprises.

As the forum ended, several key agreements were made. One of the highlights was the commitment to further organize and strengthen coconut farmer cooperatives and associations. Through this, farmers would have better access to resources, programs, and collective marketing opportunities, enabling them to grow together as a community.

The forum participants and stakeholders also agreed to conduct barangay-level training activities and set up local techno-demo hubs to ensure that knowledge and technologies will continuously reach grassroots farmers. Another important agreement was the plan to encourage greater participation of youth and women in coconut farming and agri-enterprise activities, recognizing their important role in creating a sustainable future for the industry.