A momentous groundbreaking and awarding ceremony of the Integrated White Copra and Coconut Oil Processing Center under the CFIDP- Shared Processing Facilities granted to the Mindulao Farmers Agrarian Reform Community Cooperative was held on January 23, 2024 at Barangay Cabubuhan, Magsaysay, Misamis Oriental. The ceremony started with the blessing of the proposed construction site, accompanied by the unveiling of the plan perspective, ceremonial digging, and symbolic laying down of the time capsule.

The event was graced by the Municipal Mayor of Magsaysay, Misamis Oriental, Hon. Charlie B. Buhisan who, in his welcome message emphasized the importance of creating opportunities for the municipality’s people through cooperatives. Atty. Jay Patrick R. Buhisan representing Misamis Oriental Governor, Hon. Peter M. Unabia, and Ms. Marissa B. Catubig, Supervising CDS of CDA-10 representing Dir. Aminoden A. Elias also shared their inspirational messages. Messages of Support were also given from representatives of the implementing agencies of the CFIDP including PHilMec, PCA, DA, DPWH, DOST, DTI, and LBP. PHilMec Director Dionisio G. Alvindia, PhD., through a recorded message, gave the overview of the CFIDP-Shared Processing Facility. Keynote Speaker, Senator Cynthia A. Villar, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Food and Agriculture delivered her keynote speech via recorded message. The Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) primarily aims to increase the income and productivity of coconut farmers in the country, promote poverty alleviation, education, and social equity as well as rehabilitate and modernize the Philippine coconut industry.

Afterward, Ms. Ruth N. Angeles, APASCS, Unit Head, CTF-FMOD, and Mayor Buhisan jointly presented the Certificate for the CFIDP-SPF to the Mindulao Farmers Agrarian Reform Community Cooperative. Mr. Romel C. Ratilla, Sr., Chairperson of Mindulao Farmers ARC Cooperative, expressed his profound gratitude on behalf of the cooperative officers and members for the invaluable assistance provided by the program.

The ceremony concluded on a high note as representatives from implementing agencies participated in signing a Pledge of Commitment, reaffirming their dedication to fully support and provide necessary assistance for the program’s continued success. This activity has proven to be a step forward in achieving the goal of the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP).