CocoGrow Launch: Revitalizing Sarangani's Coconut Industry

The CocoGrow project has been launched to revitalize Sarangani's coconut industry. This initiative aims to enhance sustainability and drive innovation in the region’s coconut sector, focusing on improving production practices and boosting economic growth. The project represents a significant step towards ensuring a sustainable future for Sarangani’s vital agricultural industry.

The CocoGrow Project, a pioneering initiative launched on August 22, 2024, at Barangay Bagacay, Alabel in Sarangani Province, is spearheaded by Cargill and Assist, with support from the Philippine Coconut Authority. This project aims to revitalize Sarangani's coconut industry by planting 75,000 coconut seedlings across three key municipalities: Alabel, Malapatan, and Malungon. During the launch, farmer leaders from the Poblacion Small Coconut Farmers Organisation participated in the tree planting activities.

The project focuses on rejuvenating coconut production by introducing faster-growing, high-yield varieties to replace old, low-yield trees and those damaged by recent natural disasters. Covering 535 hectares, it will benefit 500 smallholder farmers, with half being women.

Beyond replanting, CocoGrow promotes sustainable farming practices to boost local economies and increase farmer incomes. The project is crucial for the Philippines, where coconuts contribute approximately 3.6% to the national gross value-added (GVA) and the country is a leading global producer. CocoGrow aims to ensure the future of Sarangani’s coconut industry while enhancing economic resilience and sustainability in local communities.

The project will involve seven farmers’ cooperatives and associations, which are essential to its success. These groups will participate in capacity-building workshops to improve their skills in areas such as consolidation, strategic planning, financial management, and cooperative governance. This training is designed to enhance their business acumen and governance, including policy development and access to credit.

Jonathan Sumpaico, Cargill’s Copra and Palm Origination commercial director, remarked, “We are proud to partner with Assist to strengthen Sarangani's coconut industry. This project underscores Cargill's commitment to building resilient agricultural communities and supporting farmers. Through this partnership, we aim to improve the livelihoods of Sarangani's coconut farmers sustainably while meeting the rising demand for sustainable coconut oil.”

Francis Macatulad, Executive Director of Assist, stated, “The launch of this project marks a significant step toward revitalizing our coconut industry. It's not just about planting seedlings; it’s about fostering hope, creating opportunities, and building a sustainable future for our communities. With Cargill's partnership and the support of the Philippine Coconut Authority, we are dedicated to nurturing the industry and empowering farmers to unlock more opportunities, transforming Sarangani's economic landscape.”

Emily Lorion, General Manager of the Philippine Coconut Authority Region XII, added, “The CocoGrow Project is a commendable initiative. It will enhance coconut cultivation in Sarangani, support farmers, and boost our economy by strengthening the coconut industry, particularly in Sarangani. We fully support Cargill, Assist, and the CocoGrow project. Our office will continue to assist with planting, fertilization, and other support activities, including training to help farmers increase their earnings and improve their livelihoods.”

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Source: FNBNews‍