ILO Boosts Coconut Farming in Siargao with Cash-for-Work Initiative

The Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) is playing a crucial role in this effort by introducing high-yielding and improved coconut varieties to selected farms in San Isidro, Pilar, and Del Carmen.

The International Labour Organization (ILO) is spearheading efforts to enhance agricultural productivity and uplift the livelihoods of coconut farmworkers in Siargao through a comprehensive cash-for-work initiative. This project aims to equip local farmers with the knowledge and skills needed to implement Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and improve their farming methods.

As part of the Rebuilding Better Coconut Economy project, funded in partnership with the Government of Japan, the ILO is offering practical training on GAP. This initiative is designed to not only improve the quality and yield of coconut production but also provide immediate financial support to farmworkers. By combining capacity building with economic assistance, the ILO is promoting both immediate relief and long-term development in Siargao's coconut farming communities.

The Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) is playing a crucial role in this effort by introducing high-yielding and improved coconut varieties to selected farms in San Isidro, Pilar, and Del Carmen. These new varieties, known for their sweeter taste, are particularly suited for green coconut consumption and support Siargao’s transition towards a tourism-driven economy.

Training sessions were held at the Tropical Academy in San Isidro for theoretical instruction, while practical training took place directly on partner coconut farms. The training involved layout planning, staking, holing, and planting. Farm owners are expected to continue these activities, building on the work done during the training sessions. Debris from recent typhoons has been cleared from the fields, facilitating smoother operations and better flow of materials.

The training team included PCA agriculturists and personnel from municipal agriculture offices in Del Carmen and Pilar, working together to deliver comprehensive support to the coconut farming sector. This integrated approach ensures that farmworkers not only gain valuable skills but also receive essential financial support as they rebuild and enhance their farming operations.