A web- and mobile-based coconut mapping system developed by the Jose Rizal Memorial State University (JRMSU) is enabling real-time profiling, geotagging, and performance assessment of hybrid coconut farms in Zamboanga Peninsula, strengthening data-driven decision-making and accelerating hybrid coconut adoption in the region.
The mapping system was developed through the project, “Understanding Coconut Hybridization: Farmers’ Perception, Farm Performance, and Mapping of Hybrid Coconut in Region IX,” which aids in addressing critical gaps in adoption, performance evaluation, and information accessibility. The project is funded by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD) through the Coconut Hybridization Program (CHP) of the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP).
Initial survey results revealed that while most farmers recognize the benefits of hybrid coconut, they remain cautious due to perceived risks and high input requirements. Early field data further showed that survival rate and early bearing performance of coconut hybrids are strongly influenced by management practices, particularly fertilization and irrigation. This highlights the need to promote hybrid coconut as a complete production system rather than a standalone technology.
To support comprehensive and evidence-based analysis, the project team established a formal collaboration with the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) Region IX through a signed Memorandum of Agreement. This collaboration granted access to official records of hybrid coconut beneficiaries in the region, enabling the identification and validation of farms across more than 35 municipalities, including selected cities in the region.
The project team also developed and validated survey instruments capturing farmers’ profiles, management practices, perceptions, and early performance indicators of hybrid coconuts. These tools were integrated into a customized digital platform that allows real-time data entry, geotagging, and profiling of hybrid coconut farms.
To ensure data quality, orientation and training sessions were conducted for the project team and student enumerators. A system dry run confirmed the functionality and readiness of both mobile and web applications for field deployment.
The project also produced and distributed a brochure titled, “Sabay sa Asenso, Mag-Hybrid Coconut na,” which features the benefits of hybrid coconuts and success stories of adopting farmers, supporting extension and awareness efforts at the community level.
The project was recently reviewed by the Crops Research Division (CRD) led by Director Leilani D. Pelegrina, who emphasized the importance of data-driven approaches in strengthening hybrid coconut promotion and improving farm productivity.
Upon completion, the project is expected to provide robust database and spatial analysis of hybrid coconut adoption in Zamboanga Peninsula region, guiding government agencies, local government units, and extension workers in improving hybrid coconut promotion, farm management, and long-term productivity of the coconut industry.