By Nimfa Estrellado Lionheart Farms and AIFPC sign memorandum of agreement (MOA) on July 19, 2024, promises to breathe new life into a once-...
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| Lionheart Farms and AIFPC sign memorandum of agreement (MOA) on July 19, 2024, promises to breathe new life into a once-thriving industry and empower local communities. (Photo from PALAWAN NEWS) |
ALABAT, Quezon - Lionheart Farms (Philippines) Corporation (LFPC) is recently pouring its resources into the revitalization of Alabat Island's coconut sap industry, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and empowering local communities. Partnering with the Alabat Island Farmer's Producer Cooperative (AIFPC), the project promises a brighter future for the island's agricultural heritage.
Alabat Island boasts a rich history of coconut sap production, traditionally used to create various delicacies like tuba (coconut wine), vinegar, and coconut sugar. For generations, families have relied on the sap as a source of income and a cornerstone of their cultural identity.
However, previous years have witnessed a decline in the industry due to challenges in market access and consistent buying commitments. This partnership between Lionheart Farms and the AIFPC aims to recapture Alabat's past glory and establish the island as a leader in sustainable, high-quality coconut sap products.
This collaboration transcends simply boosting production. Lionheart Farms, a frontrunner in sustainable agriculture, is committed to achieving organic certification for Alabat's coconut sap. This ensures environmental benefits by promoting natural pest control and soil health.
Furthermore, organic certification unlocks access to premium markets, fetching higher prices for Alabat's traditionally produced, high-quality coconut sap products. The project champions regenerative organic processes, a practice that combats climate change by promoting biodiversity and carbon sequestration in the soil. This method can potentially increase sap yield over time through healthier coconut palms.
Lionheart Farms will secure the rights to collect sap from 25,000 coconut palms through a rental agreement, providing a steady income stream for local palm owners. This initiative prioritizes local employment for sap collection, injecting significant financial resources into the Alabat Island community.
With the potential for expansion, the project has the capacity to create 500-600 jobs across various sectors, including harvesting (sap tappers), quality control, and support roles. Lionheart Farms will establish a dedicated receiving station on the island, fostering knowledge transfer by sharing their processing expertise with the AIFPC. This empowers the cooperative with valuable skills for long-term success.
"This partnership embodies our unwavering commitment to sustainable agriculture and community development in the Philippines," says Christian Eyde Moeller, CEO of Lionheart Farms. "We believe this model can be replicated across the country, empowering Filipino farmers and promoting environmentally conscious practices within the coconut industry."
Local Leaders Applaud Long-Term Vision
Local leaders echoed Moeller's sentiments, commending the project's focus on long-term sustainability and community development. The initiative is expected to yield its first harvest before the end of July, with the potential to reach full capacity of 25,000 palms by year-end. This translates to significant economic growth for Alabat Island.
The project's positive impact on the environment resonated strongly with local officials. The use of regenerative organic processes was highlighted for its contribution to combating climate change and ensuring a healthy future for Alabat Island's ecosystem. This method promotes biodiversity, reduces reliance on harmful chemicals, and improves soil health, leading to a more sustainable agricultural landscape.
Moeller acknowledges the strong foundation laid by Alabat's farming community and the Philippine Coconut Authority. "We are proud to partner with the AIFPC and leverage their existing knowledge and capabilities to create a thriving and sustainable coconut sap industry," he concludes.
This agreement marks a significant step towards a brighter future for Alabat Island's coconut sap industry. Lionheart Farms' investment prioritizes environmental responsibility, empowers local communities, and creates a model for the Philippines' coconut industry as a whole.
This collaboration promises not only economic growth but also a more sustainable future for the island and its people. The revitalized industry has the potential to position Alabat Island as a leader in high-quality, organic coconut sap products, reviving its legacy and bringing its unique agricultural heritage to a global audience.
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