DOST-PCAARRD, 14 implementing agencies join the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) coordination meeting

The Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD), together with 14 other implementing agencies, joins the first Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) coordination meeting held on January 27, 2023 in Quezon City.

The meeting aims to discuss the program’s Year 1 accomplishments, gaps, challenges, and timeline.

Dr. Allan B. Siano, OIC-Director of the Crops Research Division of DOST-PCAARRD, presented the 2022 accomplishments of the Coconut Hybridization Program (CHP) research component. The 5-year program funds research and development (R&D) projects on coconut hybridization.

Dr. Siano highlighted the 11 approved projects on varietal improvement and selection, pest management, and cultural management, which addressed the CHP priority objectives. He also mentioned the publication of five promotional IEC materials; formation of five new, distinctive R&D partnerships; and the full engagement of 28 local experts and highly qualified professionals, among many other accomplishments.

In 2023, the CHP is expected to fund more hybridization R&D projects on varietal improvement through breeding and selection, production of planting materials, improvement of cultural management and crop protection practies, and product diversification.

DOST-PCAARRD manages 5% of the Trust Fund as mandated by the Republic Act No. 11524 or the Coconut Farmers and Industry Trust Fund Act, providing support to R&D initiatives on CHP.

The plan is initially expected to run for five years, along with other programs of the CFIDP that focus on coconut hybridization, farm improvement, shared facilities establishment, social protection, organization empowerment, credit and market support services, and infrastructure development.