Thirty-two cooperative leaders from various Coconut Farmers Cooperatives in Ilocos Norte completed a two-day Leadership and Team Development Training under the Coconut Farmers Industry Development Program (CFIDP) held on September 16-17, 2025 at Java Hotel, Laoag City.
The training, organized with the support of the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) – Ilocos Norte, aimed to strengthen the leadership capacity and teamwork of cooperative Boards of Directors (BODs) in line with the government’s push for sustainable development in the coconut industry.
Mr. Donnel B. Pasalo, Associate Professor IV of TESDA Ilocos Norte and leadership trainer, served as the resource speaker. He facilitated a series of interactive sessions covering effective leadership, workshops, decision-making and strategies to foster stronger collaboration within cooperative boards.
In his discussions, Pasalo emphasized the critical role of cooperative leaders in shaping the future of coconut farmers. “Strong leadership and teamwork are the foundation of progressive cooperatives. When leaders work harmoniously with their members, they create sustainable opportunities that benefit not only their organization but the whole farming community,” he said.
The training activities combined lectures, workshops, and group dynamics designed to enhance problem-solving and communication skills among participants. Several case studies were also presented to highlight real-world challenges faced by cooperatives and how effective leadership can address them.
Ms. Rose Ann Cabaloan, Agriculturist II, speaking on behalf of the PCA, expressed appreciation to the cooperative leaders for their active participation. “Our coconut farmers rely on strong, visionary leaders to guide their organizations. By equipping our cooperative boards with the right skills, we are ensuring that programs and resources are properly managed and that coconut farming communities will truly benefit and we are here always to give support whenever needed,” she remarked.
Participants also shared positive feedback about the training. Many acknowledged that the sessions deepened their understanding of their roles as board members and inspired them to be more proactive in leading their organizations. One participant noted, “The training gave us a fresh perspective on leadership. It reminded us that being a director is not just about decision-making, but about inspiring others and building unity in our cooperative.”
By focusing on leadership and team building, the program ensures that cooperatives—the backbone of farmer organization—are equipped to manage resources efficiently and deliver services effectively.
The two-day training concluded with a commitment-building activity, where each cooperative board pledged to apply the lessons learned in their respective organizations. The participants also expressed gratitude to the Cooperative Devepment Authority and PCA Ilocos Norte and the resource speaker for their continued guidance in strengthening cooperatives across the province.
As the coconut industry continues to play a vital role in Ilocos Norte’s agricultural landscape, initiatives such as the Leadership and Team Development Training underscore the importance of empowering leaders. With more capable and united boards of directors, coconut cooperatives are expected to become stronger catalysts of growth and development in their communities.
(Richard T. Gacisan, CDS II)
