CDA Region XII Empowers Coconut Farmer Cooperatives through Training/Workshop on Supply and Value Chain and Financial Literacy
The Cooperative Development Authority (CDA), under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP), recently conducted a three-day Training/Workshop for 50 coconut farmers representing 25 cooperatives in Region XII. Held at the Grand Summit Hotel, General Santos City, the activity aimed to enhance participants’ knowledge of the coconut supply and value chain and strengthen their financial management skills, enabling cooperatives to operate more efficiently and sustainably.
The program began on December 8, 2025, with a Supply and Value Chain session facilitated by Ms. Yvonne Templonuevo, CDS II. Participants were introduced to the overall coconut industry landscape, including key actors, production flows, post-harvest processes, and potential market opportunities. Through interactive group exercises, cooperatives were able to map their current position within the value chain, identify operational gaps, and design strategies to increase competitiveness, optimize product flows, and improve linkages with local and regional markets. Participants actively shared experiences and best practices, fostering peer learning and collaboration.
On December 10, 2025, the focus shifted to Financial Literacy, led by Ms. Marilou R. Jusi, Senior CDS. This session provided farmers with practical tools to improve budgeting, cash flow management, and cooperative financial governance. Topics included responsible financial decision-making, recording and monitoring transactions, and capital mobilization, emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability in sustaining cooperative growth. Participants engaged in exercises simulating real-life cooperative financial scenarios, helping them apply the lessons directly to their operations.
Following the training, CDA Region XII staff conducted the CFIDP Year-End Assessment and 2026 Annual Operations Planning on December 11–12, 2025. This segment, exclusive to CDA personnel, allowed staff to review program accomplishments, evaluate challenges, and set targets and strategic priorities for 2026 to ensure continued support for cooperative development and the coconut sector.
The three-day Training/Workshop successfully enhanced participants’ understanding of both the coconut value chain and financial management, equipping cooperatives with knowledge and skills to improve operational efficiency and market engagement. The activity further reinforces CDA Region XII’s commitment to empowering coconut farmer cooperatives and promoting sustainable development in the region’s coconut industry.
