DAVAO ORIENTAL— The Provincial Coconut Industry Development Council in collaboration with the different agencies and offices successfully held the Coconut Industry Investment Forum in the effort to promote and strengthen the industry.
During the activity, coconut farmers were given orientation on the current trends of with regards to the copra price which continues to drop in the world market.
Information dissemination with regards to government on coconut production has also been conducted.
Provincial Agriculture Office Department Head Mr. Rotchie Ravelo, who is also the Vice Chairman of PCIDC, warmly welcomed the stockholders from the different municipalities.
Governor Nelson Dayanghirang, in a message delivered for him by Vice Governor Niño Sotero Uy, expressed his strong support towards the industry and pointed out the provincial government stand against the cutting of coconut trees which drastically affects the industry.
“Our local coconut industry is challenged and it is a fact that we need to recognize in order to be able to develop mechanisms towards addressing these challenges,” Vice Governor Uy narrated.
During the forum, farmers were given series of lectures that enlightened them of the endless opportunities on cacao farming. Lecturers told farmers that coconut water and husks which are considered wastes can be processed and converted to value-adding products, thus, giving farmers another source of income.
Governor Dayanghirang said that the coconut is an important commodity for the province Davao Oriental and its people. Not only that it has already become a part of the province’s identity but a huge part of the province’s economy depends largely on this industry.
Resource persons have also given lectures on tips and investment opportunities for coco sugar and other value-added products.
The Coco Industry Investment Forum was participated by all stakeholders and coconut farmers from the different municipalities of Davao Oriental.
The activity was led by the Department of Agriculture, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Science and Technology, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, Department of Agriculture Revenue, Department of Labor Employment, and Philippine Coconut Authority.
