As part of the ongoing collaboration between the Integrated Rural Development Foundation (IRDF) and Transition under the ASD Coconut Field Project, IRDF recently hosted the Transition team’s visit to various farmer organizations and cooperatives in Mindanao. The goal of the visit was to review and strengthen efforts to enhance the Copra value chain and improve the livelihoods of Filipino coconut farmers.
On September 21, Transition and IRDF visited GECARBA and UNICARBAI MPC in Sta. Maria, Davao Occidental, where they presented the project highlights. The ASD Coconut Field Project, supported by IRDF, is designed to improve the quality and marketability of copra, a vital product for many Filipino farmers. By advancing copra processing techniques and creating better marketing opportunities, the project aims to increase the income potential of local farming organizations while promoting sustainability in coconut farming.
On September 22, the Transition team held discussions with the IRDF Coco4 Project team at Seagull Inland Resort in Hagonoy, Davao Del Sur. This meeting, hosted by IRDF, focused on identifying key strategies to amplify the impact of the project, enhance its activities, and optimize its deliverables. The discussions also provided a comprehensive review of the copra valorization initiatives in Mindanao. With a focus on improving production quality and developing more efficient processing techniques, the project is committed to enabling copra producers to access higher-value markets, ensuring better profitability for local farmers.
Following the meeting, Transition and IRDF staff visited the IRDF Farmer Demo Center in Matanao, which showcases the IRDF Coco3 Project. This center demonstrates the innovative processing of coconut husks, highlighting IRDF’s broader mission of promoting the full utilization of coconut by-products. By transforming agricultural waste into valuable resources, IRDF aims to further strengthen the livelihoods of coconut farmers and diversify their income streams.
On September 23, the Transition team met with the officers of TAFWA Agriculture Cooperative, which successfully transitioned from the Tacul Agri-based Farmers and Workers Association. Hosted by IRDF, this meeting provided TAFWA the opportunity to present its organizational profile and share its impressive achievements in the coconut business beyond copra processing. TAFWA’s success in producing coconut-based products and its strategic marketing approach have contributed to its continued growth and sustainability. After the meeting, a brief farm visit was conducted to showcase the thriving farms of TAFWA members, highlighting how they have ensured food security and income through sustainable farming practices.
On September 24, Transition engaged with the officers and members of SANVICOFA Marketing Cooperative and TUCOFA Agriculture Cooperative, both of which were recently transitioned from associations to formal cooperatives. With IRDF facilitating the discussions, these organizations shared their success stories, particularly in diversifying their coconut products beyond copra. The exchange of ideas with Transition representatives revolved around further enhancing the project’s objectives and ensuring alignment between all stakeholders. A farm visit followed the meeting, demonstrating how cooperative members are leveraging sustainable coconut farming to ensure a steady source of food and income.
In addition to the Mindanao visits, on September 25, the team visited the Chemrez oil processing plant in Tanuan, Batangas, with partners from the Transition, Sarah Delage and Valentin Grabet. Chemrez specializes in milling, processing, and refining oil, producing various oil derivatives that contribute significantly to the coconut value chain. This visit provided valuable insights into the processing side of the industry, reinforcing the project’s commitment to enhancing the entire spectrum of coconut utilization—from farm to final product.
Throughout the visits, IRDF’s role as a host facilitated meaningful discussions between Transition and the farmer organizations. Transition representatives Sarah and Valentin and the local cooperatives expressed confidence in the project’s potential to elevate the Copra value chain. By clarifying key aspects of the copra valorization strategy, the meetings ensured that all stakeholders were working towards a common goal of improving the copra supply chain, ultimately benefiting the livelihoods of local farmers.
The ASD Coconut Field Project, implemented by IRDF, seeks to uplift the copra industry by improving production standards and expanding market access. By strengthening the copra value chain, the project aims to secure better incomes for farmers while contributing to the long-term sustainability of the coconut farming sector in the Philippines.
About IRDF
The Integrated Rural Development Foundation (IRDF) is a non-governmental organization dedicated to empowering rural communities through sustainable agriculture. By working closely with local farmers and cooperatives, IRDF focuses on enhancing agricultural value chains—especially copra—and providing technical support to ensure that smallholder farmers can achieve sustainable livelihoods and improved incomes.
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