The Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD) participated in the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) Regional Rollout held recently in Mati, Davao Oriental.
With the theme, “CFIDP: Yawe sa Pag Uswag ug Panginabuhi sa mga Maglulubi (Key to the Development and Livelihood of Coconut Farmers),” the event aims to bring the programs and initiatives of CFIDP closer to the farmers and stakeholders in Davao Region.
During the event, coconut farmers from Davao Oriental and various CFIDP Implementing Agencies (IAs) learned about the different program components of CFIDP. A ceremonial awarding of programs, projects, and services to eligible coconut farmers were also conducted by each CFIDP IA.
On behalf of DOST-PCAARRD, Crops Research Division Officer-in-Charge, Dr. Allan B. Siano presented the Coconut Hybridization Program (CHP) research component. He discussed the ongoing efforts, plans, and targets of the Council in revitalizing Davao’s local coconut industry through the CHP.
The Council is already in talks with various agencies and institutions in the region like the Philippine Coconut Authority-Davao Research Center and the Davao Oriental State University for the funding of coconut hybridization projects. These include research and development (R&D) programs and projects focused on cultural management, pest and disease management, extension of hybrid nurseries for crop distribution, and other appropriate and relevant hybridization research.
Along with DOST-PCAARRD, the other 13 CFIDP IAs and their respective national to provincial dignitaries attended the regional rollout to showcase their own efforts. Aside from a series of presentations, booths were set up outside the Provincial Gymnasium.
The event was graced by Davao Oriental Governor Corazon M. Malanyaon and the Department of Agriculture Undersecretary for Policy, Planning, and Regulations, Dr. Mercedita A. Sombilla, among many other officials. Senate Committee Chairperson on Agriculture, Food, and Agrarian Reform Cynthia A. Villar, also joined the activity albeit virtually.
The CFIDP rollout was organized by PCA and the Provincial Government of Davao Oriental. In the coming months, several regional rollout activities are expected to happen in various parts of the country.