The significant two-day Mindanao-Wide Coconut Farmers Cooperatives Summit, hosted by the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) Region XI Extension Office, themed “Nurturing Sustainability: Innovating for a Resilient Coconut Industry”, was a resounding success for everyone involved, but particularly the coconut farmers cooperatives, who had the opportunity to share their challenges and triumphs, be recognized for their hard work and dedication, and broaden their knowledge of coconut products. The summit, which includes 943 delegates from Regions 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, and BARMM, intends to bring together coconut farmers, leaders, policymakers, academics, and community stakeholders to discuss and address critical issues in Mindanao.

Notwithstanding the fact that the summit was a reasonably large event, to ensure the efficiency and efficacy, numerous activities were facilitated, including a parade, trade fair, inspiring message delivery, topic presentation, MOU signing, commitment signing, and open forum. The goals were met owing to the collaborative efforts of multiple government and non-government groups from various Mindanao regions. Furthermore,  the cooperation of the coconut farmers cooperatives was evident in the preparation as well as during the actual event. Key partners have also attended the event to demonstrate several replicable methods and reassure coconut farmers of their assistance. 

ASec. Santiago S. Lim, CDA Administrator, emphasized during his opening message that “The summit is a significant event for the coconut industry, everyone has gathered not only as participants but also as contributors to strengthening the cooperatives of coconut farmers to achieve sustainability” . ASec. Virgilio R. Lazaga, the head of the Agriculture Cooperative Cluster and a member of the CDA Board of Directors III, then reaffirmed it. Despite the challenges they are currently confronting and attempting to overcome, the participants are certainly inspired and motivated by the speeches given by both leaders.

Several important topics were discussed by the following resource speakers of the first day of the summit:

A lively solidarity night marked the end of the summit’s first day, celebrating the vital contributions of coconut farmers who are essential to the industry’s survival. This event brought attention to Mindanao’s noteworthy contribution, which has made the region the nation’s top producer of coconuts.

The Davao Coconut Farmers Federation of Agriculture Cooperative (DACOCOFED), the federation of Coconut Farmers Cooperatives in Region XI, received the CDA Certificate of Registration from USec Joseph Encabo and Director Glenn S. Garcia during the solidarity night. DACOCOED’s registration is an indication of the unity among the coconut farmers for the development and expansion of the coconut industry in the area.

On the second day, it was a continuation of a series of resource speakers which discussed the following topics that started with Mr. Tomas B. Medina, President & CEO Brandexports Philippines, Inc. Leading Export consolidator of food and non-food products. The resource speaker’s presentation aimed to empower the coconut farmers to formulate their own roadmap towards their active participation in the industry that would present equal, if not better opportunities. The resource speaker shared his relevant experiences putting emphasis on Coconut Products and Innovations. The session was able to elicit an understanding, agility, resource info and actual best practices on the cooperative-organized coconut farmers beneficiaries. The resource speaker renders his session highlighting the ethical practices in business. The participants were truly inspired by how promising the coconut industry is through various possible innovations. 

Mr. Medina’s inspiring talk was then strengthened by the following resource speakers:

A secure environment was offered for participants from different areas to voice their opinions or pose inquiries to the resource speakers. In fact, a few of the attendees also took the time to thank the several initiatives put in place to support the advancement and well-being of coconut farmers. Many participants also discussed some of the ideas they had already initiated in their local communities. The contributions made by all of the resource speakers were unquestionably pertinent and powerful for the cooperatives of coconut farmers.

Following the presentation of certificates and tokens to the resource speakers, a ceremonial signing of commitment was held, which indicates to strengthen togetherness, show commitment, and enhance collaboration in the pursuit of common goals. Following that, an open forum was held to further explore the common concerns among the coconut grower cooperatives.

The summit ended with a photo opportunity with the coconut farmers cooperatives and other attendees at around 5:15 p.m.