By Nimfa Estrellado Catanauan, Pitogo, and Macalelon farmers and facilitators pose with Hon. Artemio Mamburao, Mayor of Macalelon, Quezon, d...
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| Catanauan, Pitogo, and Macalelon farmers and facilitators pose with Hon. Artemio Mamburao, Mayor of Macalelon, Quezon, during the hands-on training on lambanog, VCO, and coco sugar production. (Photo from Quezon PIO) |
MACALELON, Quezon - A series of comprehensive training programs conducted by SEARCA, in collaboration with the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist of Quezon, has ignited a wave of innovation and empowerment among coconut farmers in Quezon Province. Held from September 18 to 20, 2024, this initiative has equipped local farmers with a diverse skill set encompassing sustainable farming practices, value-added product development, and savvy marketing strategies to revitalize the coconut industry and pave the way for a brighter future for the farming community.
Farmers from Catanauan and Lopez, traditionally reliant on copra production, are now exploring new avenues for growth. Through the program, they gained valuable insights into effective branding and packaging, along with a deeper understanding of market trends. These newfound skills empower them to position their products strategically in an increasingly competitive landscape, opening doors to higher profit margins and greater economic stability.
Meanwhile, their counterparts from Pitogo, Macalelon, and Catanauan are embracing diversification and sustainability. They learned about integrating high-value crops with livestock, implementing strategic intercropping techniques to maximize land use and minimize environmental impact, and adopting sustainable waste management practices like vermicomposting. These innovative approaches not only enhance farm productivity but also contribute to a healthier ecosystem.
One of the most impactful aspects of the program was the hands-on training in producing value-added coconut by-products. Farmers gained firsthand experience in crafting high-quality lambanog, virgin coconut oil, and coco sugar, learning best practices, quality standards, and efficient production techniques. A farm tour and demonstration on sustainable coconut sap collection in Macalelon further enriched their understanding of the entire value chain.
This initiative underscores SEARCA's unwavering commitment to empowering farmers and fostering a thriving agricultural sector in the region. By focusing on both production and value addition, marketing, and sustainability, it provides a holistic approach to agricultural development that addresses the complex challenges faced by farmers today.
Dr. Glenn Gregorio, SEARCA Director, emphasized the importance of investing in farmers, stating, "We believe that empowering our farmers with knowledge and skills is key to unlocking the full potential of our agriculture. Through these training programs, we aim to equip them with the tools they need to thrive in an ever-evolving market, ensuring the sustainability and profitability of their farms for generations to come."
The overwhelming positive response from the participants is a testament to the program's success. Farmers expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to learn and network, and many are already eager to implement their newfound knowledge on their farms.
"This training has opened our eyes to the many possibilities in the coconut industry," shared one enthusiastic participant. "We are excited to apply what we've learned and contribute to the growth of our communities."
With empowered farmers at the helm, the future of the coconut industry in Quezon is brimming with potential. SEARCA's initiative serves as a shining example of how strategic investments in agricultural training and development can create a ripple effect of positive change, fostering a more prosperous and resilient farming sector in the Philippines and beyond.
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