Manila: The provincial government of Iloilo is initiating steps to revitalize its coconut industry, aiming to make it a significant commodity in the region. In a recent interview, Geron Magbanua, chief of the Crops Division of the Provincial Agriculture Office, revealed plans to expand the coconut plantation to 10,000 hectares over the next three years.
According to Philippines News Agency, the starting point for this initiative is to improve the quality of coconut sources within the province. A major challenge is that many of these sources are currently located in Mindanao. Magbanua explained that with the assistance of the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), efforts are underway to establish seednut farms and nurseries in Iloilo to accelerate expansion.
Currently, only about 8 percent of the province's agricultural land is dedicated to coconut cultivation. Magbanua noted that there is potential for up to 30 to 50 percent of this land to be planted with coconuts. Expanding this area, along with improvements in processing and market linkage, could offer farmers a viable alternative source of livelihood or even become their primary income.
Data from the PCA indicates that Iloilo has 38,240.41 hectares designated as coconut areas, with 3.8 million coconut palms. The province also has 37,414 registered coconut farmers and 20 associations and cooperatives.
Besides improving nurseries and seednut production, Magbanua emphasized the importance of raising awareness about the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) Fund. Informing farmers about available PCA programs is a priority, with a presentation scheduled during the first Iloilo Provincial Coconut Week's culminating activity.
Vice Governor Lee Ann Dubuque suggested incorporating buko juice and other coconut products into provincial government events to support the industry. Furthermore, PCA Western Visayas is advocating for an ordinance to promote buko products during activities.
Efforts are also being made to control coconut seednut importation from other regions due to pest and disease concerns. Meanwhile, various processed coconut products are on display at the provincial capitol as part of a Coconut Expo during the weeklong celebration. Additionally, 100 seednuts of the Tacunan coconut variety were planted in Barangay Nagbangi, Leon town.
