Mr. Jessiemar D. Cabasag, Senior Science Research Specialist of the PCA – ZRC and Mr. Matthew Kayle N. Continente, Agriculturist II of PCA – Capiz, demonstrates the emasculation techniques of coconut inflorescence
ROXAS CITY, Capiz – In support to the Coconut Farmers’ and Industry Development Program (CFIDP), the Agricultural Training Institute - Regional Training Center VI (ATI-RTC VI) conducted a five-day Training of Trainers on Coconut Hybridization Operations for Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs). This initiative aims to equip AEWs with advanced knowledge and skills in coconut hybridization, contributing to the development of the coconut sector in the region.
The training started with an opening program on the first day with Mr. Niel J. Melencion, Regional Manager of the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) Region 6 encouraged the participants to help the PCA introduce the coconut hybridization technologies in their municipalities. Moreover, he instructed the ATI to strengthen the Learning Sites for Agriculture under the CFIDP into becoming a hybridization sites.
Mr. Niel J. Melencion, Regional Manager of the PCA Region 6, addresses the participants and encourages them to promote the coconut hybridization technologies in their respective LGUs
PCA-Capiz Division Chief, Mr. Andy O. Laurilla was also present during the program and welcome the participants to the training. He also took note that the province has already two (2) operational hybridization sites and one (1) pollen processing facility in support to the hybridization program of the CFIDP.
The first day also featured discussions on the coconut industry situationer and overview of the CFIDP. Randy A. Barrieta, Agricultural Extension Worker from LGU Ivisan, also delved into coconut morphology and varietal identification.
On the second day, participants dived into technical topics such as floral biology, emasculation, pollination, and pollen production under the guidance of Jessiemar D. Cabasag, Senior Science Research Specialist at the PCA – Zamboanga Research Center (PCA-ZRC). Additionally, Matthew Kayle N. Continente, Agriculturist II from the PCA - Capiz, led sessions on coconut pollen production and laboratory operations.
Participants’ records data on the number of buttons and male flowers in an inflorescence as part of their group activity on coconut hybridization
Field practicums took place on March 19, 20, and 21, allowing participants hands-on experience with emasculation and pollination techniques. Moreover, to further supplement their learning, the participants also visited the PCA pollen processing at Brgy. Binuntucan, Pontevedra, Capiz.
They also learned about nursery site selection, seedbed preparation, seednut classification, and polybag nursery management from Engr. Erica C. Dorondon, Agriculturist at the PCA – Capiz.
Participant Mr. Keo Jay C. Ciasico from LGU-Tapaz, assists by PCA emasculator during the field practicum on emasculation of coconut inflorescence.
Participant Ms. Gretchen Libre from LGU-Conception, assists by PCA pollinator during the field practicum on pollination of coconut buttons.
The program concluded with a re-entry planning session, post-test, and evaluation, ensuring that AEWs are ready to implement their newfound knowledge in their respective communities.
This initiative underscores ATI-RTC VI's commitment to advancing agricultural education and strengthening the coconut industry through knowledge dissemination and practical training. Participants are expected to become key advocates and implementers of coconut hybridization, contributing to increased productivity and sustainability in the sector.
This training was conducted from March 17 to 21, 2025, at Hotel Veronica, Pueblo de Panay, Brgy. Lawaan, in this city.
Participants from the 23 LGUs across the region with the ATI training management poses for a photo opportunity during the closing program.
