CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) — Displaying the region’s best agricultural innovations and coconut products and featuring a wide range of activities designed to empower local farmers and fisherfolk, the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI)-10 held the 1st Techno Gabay Program sa Coconut and Masaganang Cocobuhayan Expo 2024 from August 30 to September 1 at SM Downtown Premier, here.
The event also highlighted the recognition of top TGP implementers, the awarding of ICT equipment to new Farmers Information and Technology Service (FITS) centers and kiosks, and the sharing of FITS best practices.
The Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA)-10 also took the opportunity to present updates on the coconut industry, underscoring the significance of the sector in the regional economy. The event included talks on becoming a learning site for agriculture, as well as discussions on best practices in coconut-livestock farming integration, coconut sap juice processing, coconut vinegar production, and the development of value-added coconut cosmetic products.
“Diha lang sa atong mga (in our) exhibit post, we can see already the different products that can benefit not only the coconut farmers but also the different value chain actors of the coconut products. We are here, of course, to promote these products for the benefit not only of the public but likewise with the producers, the coconut producers themselves, and the processors,” said ATI Director Engr. Remelyn Recoter.
She added that there are about 2.8 million coconut farmers per the National Coconut Farmers Registry System, and there are about 25 million who are benefiting from the different value chain products of coconuts.
For her part, Department of Agriculture (DA)-10 Regional Technical Director Cora Dumayaca emphasized the economic importance of the coconut industry, often referred to as the “tree of life.” She noted that the industry is a vital source of livelihood for countless families and a cornerstone of the nation’s cultural heritage.
However, despite its significance, challenges remain, particularly in northern Mindanao, where farmers contribute to 32% of the poverty incidence. “Today, we are here to ensure that this invaluable resource continues to thrive and evolve, benefiting generations to come,” Dumayaca said.
The director also underlined the importance of value chain analysis in advancing the coconut industry. She cited coco sugar, coco coir, and coco oil that have already undergone analysis, paving the way for more products and innovations.
“Sustainability is key,” Dumayaca said, stressing the need for sustainable practices from production to market.
As for support from the local government unit, Misamis Oriental Board Member Rey Buhisan highlighted the province’s commitment to agriculture, noting an increase in the agriculture budget from P170 million to P480 million.
“Importante kaayo ang behavioral transformation; naa dinhi ang atong gobyerno andam mutabang but the most important is kita, ang atong kaugalingon, ato pong tabangan,” Buhisan said.
(Behavioral transformation is very important; our government is here and ready to help, but the most important thing is that we also help ourselves.)
At present, Region 10 boasts 64 active FITS centers and 144 FITS kiosks strategically located in barangays and learning sites across the region. These centers serve as vital hubs for disseminating agricultural and fishery information, helping to bridge the gap between technology and the end-users—farmers and fisherfolk.
Recognizing agri innovations
The TechnoGabay Program Achiever Awards, which recognized outstanding FITS centers and partners, also celebrated outstanding agricultural initiatives during the event. These awards highlight the achievements of various FITS centers and institutions that have excelled in supporting agricultural and fishery programs through knowledge dissemination, digital initiatives, and community engagement.
FITS Centers from Iligan City and Malaybalay City were awarded for their exceptional efforts in producing and distributing knowledge products that have significantly contributed to the improvement of agricultural and fishery practices.
The University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP) Claveria and the Provincial Agriculture Office (PAO) of Bukidnon were recognized for their excellence in implementing e-extension programs.
FITS Centers from Manolo Fortich and Don Carlos in Bukidnon were honored for their outstanding use of social media platforms to promote agricultural and fishery programs. These centers have successfully reached a wider audience through their creative and engaging content, raising awareness and providing valuable insights to the farming community.
The FITS centers of Sinacaban, Jimenez, Iligan City, and Manolo Fortich in Bukidnon were awarded for their exceptional efforts in establishing FITS Kiosks. These kiosks serve as vital access points for farmers and fisherfolk, offering essential information and services to improve their agricultural practices and overall productivity.
In addition, the FITS center of Lantapan received recognition for its exceptional poster presentation, which successfully conveyed significant agricultural concepts and practices.
With a focus on promoting agricultural innovation and collaboration, ATI-10 Center Director Maria Lydia Echavez emphasized that the 1st Techno Gabay Program sa Coconut and Masaganang Cocobuhayan Expo 2024 served as a platform for showcasing the region’s agricultural potential and fostering partnerships between government agencies, farmers, and the private sector. (RTP/PIA-10)
