In line with their shared commitment to advancing agriculture and fostering employment opportunities, the Philippine Coconut Authority, the Department of Labor and Employment, and the Central Bicol State University of Agriculture initiated the identification of the priorities and needs of Coconut Farmers’ Cooperatives (CFCs) and Coconut Farmers’ Associations (CFAs) in Lupi and Libmanan on May 22, 2025. This initiative aims to develop sustainable livelihood projects that will empower local coconut farming communities in the said municipalities.
During the consultations, CFCs and CFAs focused on crafting livelihood projects centered on their priority products. CBSUA played a key facilitative role, with Prof. Sebastian C. Llegado and Ms. Leah B. Sumalinog assisting the Golden Coconut Farmers’ Association (GCFA) in identifying relevant trainings and services to enhance their knowledge in Organic Fertilizer Production and Marketing. Ms. Tessaliz Nova San Pascual and Ms. Abigail V. Guinoo supported the Sta. Cruz Coconut Farmers Agriculture Cooperative (SCCFAC) in planning training programs aimed at enhancing their capabilities in developing cacao-based products. Meanwhile, Mr. Nestor Gaurana and Mr. Marvin R. Molin guided the newly registered Lupi Cacao Planters Association (LUCAPA) in drafting project proposals and identifying interventions for their Cacao Rehabilitation Project.
Building on previous engagements, the project outputs were endorsed by Atty. Marlon M. Terrado, PCA Acting Regional Manager III, to DOLE for potential funding support. In line with this, DOLE-Camarines Sur representatives conducted site visits and facilitated Focus Group Discussions with the CFC and CFA members. The DOLE team, composed of Ms. Christine Brazal, Ms. Leslie Tormes, and Ms. Vivien Hernandez, took the lead in assessing the feasibility of the proposed livelihood initiatives. DOLE’s role is crucial in supporting the development of these livelihood projects through potential funding and technical assistance.
PCA–Camarines Sur, through the leadership of Ms. Ma. Delpha S. Estrada (PCA Agriculturist) plays a vital role in supporting the advancement of coconut farmers by promoting value-adding projects and the integration of other crops into their coconut-based farming systems. The activity was also supported by Mr. Emmanuel Estrada, staff of the PCA. PCA.The next step for the participating groups is to develop comprehensive project proposals and comply with DOLE’s documentary requirements to qualify for the funding support requested. | 𝘙𝘦𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘱𝘩𝘰𝘵𝘰𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘔𝘢𝘳𝘷𝘪𝘯 𝘙. 𝘔𝘰𝘭𝘪𝘯, 𝘌𝘚𝘋
