JARO, Leyte – In support of the Philippine coconut industry's push towards producing safer, higher-quality, and globally competitive coconut products ATI-RTC 8 conducted the Training of Trainers on White Copra Production on June 22–24, 2026, at Villaconzoilo Farm School in Jaro, Leyte.
The three-day training equipped agricultural extension workers and other coconut industry stakeholders with the knowledge and practical skills needed to promote proper white copra production and implement traceability systems for coconut enterprises in their respective communities.
As global markets continue to impose stricter food safety requirements, the adoption of white copra production has become increasingly important in enhancing the competitiveness of Philippine coconut products.
During the training, participants discussed the current situation of the Philippine coconut industry, including existing gaps, emerging opportunities, and market trends. Sessions also highlighted food and feed safety concerns, particularly the risks posed by Mineral Oil Saturated Hydrocarbons (MOSH) and Mineral Oil Aromatic Hydrocarbons (MOAH), contaminants that can affect the safety, quality, and exportability of coconut products.
To support compliance with international quality standards, participants learned the importance of adopting Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) throughout the copra production process. They were likewise introduced to traceability systems and digitalization initiatives in the coconut value chain using the KoboCollect application, enabling more efficient data collection and product monitoring from production to market.
“I learned that quality does not happen, it comes from following standards from harvesting all the way to selling,” shared Nelmar Calabia, one of the participants. “It made me realize that coconut farming and processing is not just simple work.” For Nelmar, coconut farming is a skill-based industry that can improve livelihoods in the Leyte province. He also emphasized why traceability is important from producing, storing, and transporting. “Every step must be recorded clearly for quality and safety of consumer’s health.” He explained.
The training also featured hands-on demonstrations of the proper white copra drying process and an Entre-Farm experiential learning simulation, where participants applied decision-making skills in managing coconut enterprises. Through the demonstration, Milyn Macalalad, another participant realized the shortcomings of her copra making process. “I learned the proper process of copra making ensuring that it won’t be contaminated and how MOSH and MOAH can be prevented.”
To further reinforce classroom discussions, participants visited Bendicar Farm and KAMMPIL to observe the operation of the Kukumb dryer, an improved drying technology designed for white copra production. The field activity allowed them to compare the quality and output of white copra produced using the Kukumb dryer under different farm conditions and management practices.
Through this training, ATI-RTC 8 continues to strengthen the capacities of agricultural extension workers, enabling them to transfer appropriate technologies and promote quality-oriented coconut production systems.
