Dumaguete City – The Agricultural Training Institute-VII (ATI-7) in collaboration with the Save Coconut Foundation Inc. (SCFI) spearheads a one-day Summit dubbed “COCOnvergence of Stakeholders Towards Sustainability of the Philippine Coconut Industry” featuring: CFIDP Progress and Technology Showcase held on August 24, 2024 at Negros Oriental Convention Center, this City.

Gracing the event was Hon. Manuel “Chaco” L. Sagarbarria, Governor of the Province of Negros Oriental, and Ms. Remelyn R. Recoter, MNSA, CESO III and National Director of Agricultural Training Institute. The activity was participated in by 700 individuals, including coconut farmers, representatives from various Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) implementing agencies, and COCOFED scholars.  

The COCOnvergence provides a platform for dialogue among PFEM-COCOFED scholars’ alumni, coconut farmers, implementing agencies, and other relevant government agencies. It aims to strengthen collaborations, provide coconut farmers with insights, new knowledge, and updates about the coconut industry, and raise awareness about the programs and projects of different implementing agencies (IAs). Additionally, it aims to inform stakeholders and participants about CFITF and CFIDP, including their components.

Dexter R. Buted, Administrator and Chief Executive Officer of the Philippine Coconut Authority served as the Keynote Speaker. Moreover, Hon. Congresswoman Camille Lydia Aguilar Villar-Genuino, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives gave the inspirational address. 

During the afternoon session, Ms. Luz Brenda P. Balibrea, Division Chief III of the Trade Information and Relations Division, PCA discussed  “The Philippine Coconut Industry: Challenges and Business Opportunities”. 

Meanwhile, Dr. Manuel L. Logroño, President & Founder of Maize Life & Farming Sciences shared his talk on “Crop / Animal Integration Potential for Coconut Replanting Program”.

The summit also showcased coconut-based products and by-products, awarded Learning Site for Agriculture certificates and scholarships, and facilitated direct engagement between farmers and implementing agencies through interactive booths.