Empowering Coconut Farmers with Virgin Coconut Oil Training in Mahayag
In line with the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP), the Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center IX (ATI-RTC IX) successfully conducted the 1st Batch of Training on Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) Production on July 16–18, 2025. The activity was participated in by 30 coconut farmers from the barangays of Delusom, Panagaan, Bag-ong Dalaguete, and San Vicente in Mahayag, Zamboanga del Sur.
The training officially commenced with an opening program graced by key stakeholders, including Mr. Dionedes Dagatan, Zamboanga del Sur Provincial Manager of the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) Region IX; Mr. Julito B. Cordova, ATI-RTC IX CFIDP Alternate Focal Person; and Ms. Meluna A. Makilat from the Municipal Agriculturist Office of Mahayag. Each shared encouraging messages that inspired the participants to maximize the learning opportunity.
Following the opening ceremony, participants expressed excitement and curiosity about the three-day training. A pre-test was conducted to assess their baseline knowledge before the start of the lectures. Mr. Warin Gardose, Agriculturist II of PCA IX, serving as the resource person, delivered sessions on the following key topics:
- Principles of Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) Production
- VCO Extraction Methods
- Quality Control Measures in VCO Production
- Packaging and Labeling
- Harvesting VCO
On the second day, participants were immersed in a hands-on demonstration of VCO production, led by Mr. Warin Gardose and Ms. Lorina Antiquina, both from PCA IX. The farmers actively participated in the activity, applying the theoretical concepts they had learned the day before.
The final day was the harvesting of the Virgin Coconut Oil, which was the highlight of the training. Ms. Ma. Angelica Saldua, Negosyo Center Business Councilor from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) - Zamboanga del Sur, shared valuable insights on packaging and labeling techniques, as well as support services available for marketing their products.
To conclude the activity, representatives from each of the four barangays shared their reflections and learnings. They conveyed heartfelt gratitude to the organizers and facilitators, emphasizing how the training had empowered them with new skills and practical knowledge.
Ms. Nohrena Mae M. Pano, Development Management Officer I, and Mr. Jay Ar Mariquita, CFIDP Technical Support Staff VI facilitated the training. It was conducted under the supervision of Mr. Julito B. Cordova, CFIDP Alternate Focal Person, and assisted by Ms. Cherry Jane V. Bagonggong, CFIDP Technical Support Staff.
Through initiatives like this, ATI-RTC IX continues to support coconut farmers in enhancing their livelihood through value-adding technologies and enterprise development.
