FROM improving coconut varieties and introducing modern farming technologies to developing value-added products, Bohol is stepping up efforts to transform its coconut industry into a more productive and competitive source of livelihood for local farmers.
The initiatives were discussed during the November 6, 2026, episode of The Capitol Reports at the Ceremonial Hall, featuring Provincial Coconut Development Manager of the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA)-Bohol Provincial Office Jovencio Felisilda and Coconut Industry Focal Person of the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA) Teopisto Jumawid Jr.
Felisilda discussed the implementation of Republic Act No. 11524, or the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan Act, which provides funding to rehabilitate and modernize the coconut industry while improving farmers’ welfare.
He explained that the law covers seven major components: social protection, farmer training, development of improved coconut varieties, coconut-based enterprise development, value-adding activities, increased farmer income, and support services.
Under social protection, registered coconut farmers and qualified dependents may access medical assistance, insurance, and scholarships.
Beneficiaries receive a monthly stipend of ₱7,000, a ₱30,000 computer allowance, and a ₱70,000 thesis allowance.
Nearly 600 scholars are enrolled across the Visayas and Mindanao, including at Bohol Island State University (BISU).
Felisilda also cited efforts to strengthen coconut cooperatives and provide skills training through the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and agricultural training institutions.
Enterprise development includes swine, goat, poultry, cattle, and dairy ventures, giving farmers income sources beyond coconut farming.
The province is pursuing value-adding initiatives through processing and shared service facilities, including a white copra facility in Aguipo, Mabini, and coconut fiber processing.
Coco coir can be made into geotextiles for road slope protection, creating additional uses for coconut by-products.
Other processing initiatives are being developed in Loon, Catigbian, Mabini, Corella, and Ubay.
Efforts are underway to explore coconut water processing for energy drinks.
To improve farm productivity, the PCA promotes improved coconut varieties, including hybrids that combine the characteristics of tall and dwarf coconut trees.
Felisilda said planting materials are selected based on farmers’ needs and their potential to increase production and income.
Around 7,000 coconut seedlings are currently being delivered for distribution.
Felisilda encouraged farmers to coordinate with their municipal agriculturists and register under the Coconut Farmers Registry System (CFRS) to access programs and benefits under the law.
On climate resilience, Felisilda said coconut trees are relatively less vulnerable to prolonged dry conditions because of their deep roots.
The PCA promotes farm management practices, including agricultural-grade fertilizers and salt, to help improve crop resistance, particularly during El Niño.
Meanwhile, Jumawid underscored the OPA’s role in promoting intercropping and integrated farming systems to maximize agricultural land and provide farmers with additional income.
The office distributes seedlings of cacao, coffee, and other industrial crops that can be planted beneath coconut trees.
This allows farmers to maintain coconut production while cultivating complementary crops that contribute to household earnings.
The OPA provides farm inputs, fertilizers, technical assistance, and training to help farmers adopt technologies and improve production.
Jumawid said support should extend beyond coconut production to encourage diversified farming.
Both officials stressed the importance of modernizing traditional farming practices, particularly by observing appropriate planting distances and arrangements to maximize land use, improve crop development, and increase productivity.
Felisilda reported that Bohol’s coconut industry continues to progress, with copra remaining an important agricultural commodity.
He called for stronger coconut cooperatives to connect farmers with government support, processing facilities, and markets.
The ongoing partnership between the PGBh and PCA underscores the Capitol’s commitment to improving agricultural productivity, expanding livelihood opportunities, and developing a competitive, climate-resilient coconut industry under the leadership of Gov. Aris Aumentado.
The PGBh continues to advance its Strategic Change Roadmap by promoting modern agricultural practices, supporting rural enterprises, and creating inclusive economic opportunities toward a productive and sustainable Bohol, a UNESCO Global Geopark. (PIMO/MFM)
