Project Update: Advancing Organic Coconut Development through the
Coconut Resiliency Project in Mindanao
The Coconut Resiliency Project in Mindanao has made significant progress in promoting organic coconut farming and supporting farmers through education, financial literacy, and agroforestry practices. Recent activities have engaged farmers, cooperatives, and local partners, fostering economic resilience and sustainable farming approaches.
These activities embody the shared vision of empowering coconut farmers with the tools, knowledge, and opportunities needed to thrive in an evolving agricultural landscape. At the heart of this effort is the unwavering commitment of the Integrated Rural Development Foundation (IRDF) to uplift coconut farmers by fostering sustainable practices, financial literacy, and diversified income streams. IRDF remains dedicated to building resilient farming communities by working hand-in-hand with cooperatives, government agencies, and local stakeholders. Through continuous support and innovative solutions, we aim to transform coconut farming into a model of sustainability and economic empowerment, ensuring that the farmers we serve not only endure but prosper for generations to come.
On September 4, 2024, a seminar titled “Essential Tips for Better Financial Health” was held at the Municipal Hall in Parang, Maguindanao Norte. The event, sponsored by the Ministry of Trade, Investments, and Tourism (MTIT), featured Farisa Nul, a trade industry development analyst, as the resource person. The Family Support Coconut Marketing Cooperative gained valuable insights into financial management to improve their economic well-being and better manage their businesses.
A follow-up seminar on September 24, 2024, focused on “Financial Management and Starting Up Business.” This event, also supported by MTIT Marawi, took place in Barangay Upper Itil, Balabagan, Lanao del Sur, and was attended by members of the Al-Ameen Coconut Farmers Economic Producers Cooperative. The discussion highlighted the importance of financial literacy and entrepreneurial skills, encouraging farmers to venture into value-added businesses beyond copra and whole nut production to diversify their income streams.
On October 10, 2024, the project celebrated a key milestone with the Farmers Graduation on Organic Agricultural Production NC II at Molina Resort, Parang, Maguindanao Norte. Sponsored by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and the Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education (MBHTE), the event recognized farmers from the Macasandag Farmers and Jam Coco Marketing Cooperative who completed their organic agriculture training. The certification equips participants with the skills and knowledge needed to adopt sustainable farming practices, enhancing the productivity and environmental impact of their farms.
To further integrate sustainability and agroforestry, a mulching and cacao seedling planting activity was conducted on October 15-16, 2024, in Barangay Central Langkong, Matanog, Maguindanao Norte. Led by the Family Support Coconut Marketing Cooperative, the model farm demonstrated the benefits of intercropping cacao with coconut. This approach not only improves soil quality but also increases farmers’ income potential, promoting biodiversity and resilience within farming communities.