CACAO REHAB TRAINING EMPOWERS SOMINOT COCO GROWERS

Jay-ar S. Mariquita

In a strategic move to strengthen the livelihoods of local coconut farmers, the Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center IX (ATI-RTC IX), in collaboration with the Philippine Coconut Authority – Region IX (PCA-Region 9), successfully empowered 30 NCFRS coconut beneficiaries through an intensive three-day Training on Cacao Rehabilitation (Batch 1) held from March 18 to 20, 2026.

The training, conducted in Brgy. Upper Sicpao, Sominot, Zamboanga del Sur, was specifically designed to bridge the gap between aging, unproductive cacao trees and the surging global demand for high-quality chocolate. Under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP), participants transitioned from traditional methods to advanced, sustainable farming practices aimed at maximizing the productivity of every square meter of their land.

Led by primary resource person Mr. Terso A. Balives, a farm manager from MIFAMCO, the curriculum went far beyond basic farming. The farmers delved into the "why" and "how" of rehabilitation, covering Intercropping Synergy, Scientific Tree Management, Integrated Pest Management (IPM), and Quality Control.

The training was more than technical; it was deeply personal. During a session titled "Mapait at Matamis" (Bittersweet), farmers shared the struggles of their agricultural journeys, finding common ground in their shared pursuit of a better life.

"Cacao rehabilitation is not just simple care; it is a strategic way to bring the tree back to life. It is more practical, faster, and cheaper than replanting," shared participant Mr. Joel C. Notarion Jr., noting that rehabilitation utilizes established root systems for quicker yields.

The impact of the training was immediate. "This training helps me widen my knowledge as cacao is in high demand. It will help boost the economy and the living standards of our family," stated participant Nenita O. Mier.

The successful facilitation was led by Mr. Jay-ar S. Mariquita and Ms. Cherry Jane V. Bagonggong, under the supervision of Project Officer Mr. Julito B. Cordova. Each graduate has committed to a re-entry plan to implement these sustainable practices on their respective farms immediately.