By PR | 11:42 PM September 01, 2024
The province of Bohol participated in the 38th National Coconut Week which aimed to plant 8.5 million seedlings by the end of the year,
A key highlight of the celebration was the Nationwide Simultaneous Coconut Planting Activity on August 28, spearheaded by the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA).
In Bohol, the event took place in Guadalupe, Carmen town which aimed to. plant 11,000 coconut trees.
Central Visayas targeted to plant 38,200 coconut trees.
This massive planting effort aligns with the broader goal set by PCA to plant 100 million coconut trees by 2028, reinforcing the administration’s focus on revitalizing the coconut industry and ensuring long-term sustainability.
The nationwide planting activity symbolizes more than just expanding coconut plantations; it reflects the resilience and unity within the coconut industry, which continues to be a vital driver of the nation’s food security.
The PCA’s collaborative efforts with farmers, local governments, and industry stakeholders promise a more sustainable future for the millions of Filipinos who rely on this industry for their livelihoods.
Project Development Officer for PCA Region 7 Aurora Paquibot shared a significant insight into the economic impact of the coconut industry, noting that it contributes an impressive $3.2 billion annually.
In Region 7 alone, 134,000 hectares are devoted to coconut farming, with Bohol standing out as the province with the largest area planted—53,000 hectares.
Despite having more land under cultivation, the annual coconut production in Bohol is 127,000 metric tons compared to Negros Oriental which produces 172,000 metric tons.
Paquibot emphasized that the PCA is focused on boosting productivity by providing free salt as fertilizer, a cost-effective solution that enhances coconut tree resilience and increases the thickness of the coconut meat.
Board Member Lucille Lagunay on behalf of Governor Aris Aumentado, the provincial government reaffirmed its strong support for the coconut industry, particularly for the coconut farmers and workers.
Lagunay urged farmers to embrace modern techniques in coconut farming, planting strategically and scientifically to position the Philippines as a global leader in coconut production. She also encouraged them to register with the National Coconut Farmers Registry System (NCFRS), ensuring they receive the support and resources needed for their continued success.
PCA Bohol has set ambitious targets for the coming years, aiming to plant 55,000 coconut trees in 2024 and a remarkable 150,000 by 2025.
Jovencio Felisilda, PCA Bohol manager, expressed his gratitude to the farmers who participated in the planting activity and highlighted the importance of regaining the strength of the coconut industry, which remains a cornerstone of the Philippines’ agricultural sector.
