Pastrana, Leyte –The Agricultural Training Institute–Regional Training Center 8 (ATI-RTC 8) successfully conducted another batch of the Training on Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) on Coconut Production and Management on February 25–27, 2026 in Pastrana, Leyte. The three-day capacity-building initiative equipped 33 coconut farmers with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to enhance farm productivity, ensure food safety, and prepare for PhilGAP certification. The transition from traditional to modern, certified farming practices in coconut production is one of the aims of Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP).
The training began with discussions on the status of the Philippine coconut industry and the strategic interventions under CFIDP. Participants were oriented on the principles and requirements of Good Agricultural Practices, particularly the Philippine National Standards (PNS) for GAP in coconut production. Emphasis was placed on the importance of PhilGAP certification as a pathway toward improved market access, increased consumer confidence, and enhanced farm credibility.
As the sessions progressed, ATI-RTC 8 resource persons guided participants through recommended practices covering farm planning, nutrient management, pest management, and farm maintenance. These discussions were reinforced by hands-on activities which were conducted at the Brgy. Aringit Farmers Association (BAFA)- to translate theory into practical application.
Farmers actively participated in soil sampling, field lay-outing, fertilizer application on matured or bearing coconut trees, log trap installation, and ring weeding. The field exercises allowed participants to apply recommended practices directly in an actual farm setting, reinforcing proper techniques aligned with GAP standards. The training also highlighted the importance of proper documentation and record-keeping as essential components of PhilGAP certification. Participants were guided on compliance requirements to ensure readiness for certification and inspection processes.
Throughout the activity, participants expressed appreciation for the knowledge and skills gained. Alicia A. Lasta, one of the participants and a coconut farmer in Pastrana, conveyed her gratitude to the ATI management team, noting that their approachable and effective facilitation made the training both meaningful and practical. She shared that the sessions enabled them to learn improved coconut farming practices that they can confidently implement in their own farms.
Similarly, Ramil E. Ending, another participant also conveyed his gratitude, stating, “I sincerely thank ATI and the resource persons for sharing their knowledge during this training. We will apply what we have learned to our respective farms. We are truly thankful for this opportunity.”
Another participant, Gian Carlo V. Gamba, also underscored the importance of conducting such initiatives. “Programs like this not only enhance current farming practices but also serve as an investment in the next generation of coconut farmers”, he shared. His statement reflects a shared aspiration among participants for continuous learning opportunities that will secure the future of the coconut industry.
As these 33 farmers return to their respective farms equipped with enhanced competencies and renewed motivation, they carry with them not only improved technical skills but also a stronger commitment to sustainable agriculture. Through initiatives anchored on CFIDP, ATI-RTC 8 remains steadfast in building a progressive, competitive, and future-ready coconut industry for the region and beyond. (with reports from Keith Leviticus Quilos)
