Lucena Summit showcases the future of the Philippine coconut industry

By Nimfa Estrellado Lucena City hosted the Techno Gabay Program Summit and Coconut Expo, showcasing the future of the Philippine coconut ind...

By Nimfa Estrellado

Lucena City hosted the Techno Gabay Program Summit and Coconut Expo, showcasing the future of the Philippine coconut industry.

LUCENA CITY, Quezon – The future of Filipino technology might just sprout from a coconut tree. That was the message resounding through Lucena City as the Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) CALABARZON hosted its largest-ever Techno Gabay Program (TGP) Summit and first-ever Coconut Expo.

Over 250 attendees, including farmers, industry experts, government officials, and representatives from organizations like the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), gathered to explore the surprising potential of this age-old crop. The event served as a platform to discuss the role of the coconut in driving economic growth in the region and beyond.



To showcase the versatility of the coconut, the event was held at Pacific Mall Lucena from November 18-19. The Expo was a testament to coconut innovation, where traditional products like buko pie and lambanog shared the stage with cutting-edge creations like coco-based mouth sprays and nasal sprays, and eco-friendly alternatives to plastic pots.

This focus on innovation was further emphasized by the participation of local cooperatives and businesses. Yakap at Halik Multipurpose Cooperative, for instance, showcased their sustainable coconut farming practices that prioritize responsible resource management and environmental protection. Their exhibits demonstrated how coconut cultivation can be integrated with environmental stewardship, ensuring the long-term health of the industry and the planet.

Building on this theme of sustainability, CocoLambda presented their unique line of coconut-based health and wellness products, demonstrating the potential for value-added products in the coconut industry. The diverse range of exhibits highlighted the adaptability of the coconut and its potential to contribute to various sectors of the economy.

Beyond the Expo, a key highlight of the event was the technology forum, which offered a deep dive into the science and strategy behind coconut industry growth. Experts shared insights on good agricultural practices (GAP) to ensure the quality and sustainability of coconut production, and explored the development of innovative and high-value coconut products to meet the demands of local and international markets.

Continuing the theme of resource optimization, the forum also delved into ways to utilize coconut byproducts to minimize waste and create additional income streams for farmers. This focus on sustainability and resource efficiency underscored the commitment to responsible coconut production and processing.

To further support industry expansion, the forum examined strategies for broadening the reach of Philippine coconut products both domestically and internationally. This emphasis on knowledge sharing and innovation underscored the commitment to supporting the growth and development of the coconut industry.

"This Expo highlights the ingenuity and resilience of our coconut farmers," stated Dr. Rolando V. Maningas, ATI CALABARZON Center Director. "We are dedicated to supporting them through knowledge sharing and technology transfer, helping them to increase their income and improve their livelihoods."

Recognizing the individuals and organizations who are driving this progress, the summit also shone a light on achievements in agricultural information and technology services. Awards were presented to outstanding FITS Centers, like those in Gen. Trias City and Batangas City, for their work in empowering farmers through digital literacy and providing access to crucial agricultural information.

Adding to this celebration of knowledge sharing, the FITS Center in Lucena City was recognized for its strong online presence and effective use of social media to disseminate information and engage with farmers. This recognition highlights the growing importance of digital tools in agricultural extension.

The Office of the Provincial Agriculturist in Cavite also received praise for its creative training materials and engaging videos, demonstrating effective communication strategies in agricultural extension. These awards recognized the important role of information and communication technologies in supporting the agricultural sector.

"Their work is crucial in bridging the digital divide and ensuring that our farmers have access to the information and resources they need to succeed," Dr. Maningas emphasized, commending the dedication of all the TGP implementers.

The 8th TGP Summit and 2024 Coconut Expo concluded with a renewed focus on the growth and development of the Philippine coconut industry. The event highlighted the importance of supporting local farmers, promoting sustainable practices, and embracing innovation to unlock the full potential of this valuable resource.

The event served as a successful platform for collaboration and knowledge sharing, bringing together stakeholders from across the coconut value chain. Farmers, entrepreneurs, researchers, and government representatives engaged in fruitful discussions about the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.

This collaborative spirit, fostered through events like the TGP Summit and Coconut Expo, promises a bright future for the Philippine coconut industry. By working together and embracing innovation, stakeholders can ensure the continued growth and prosperity of this vital sector.