A significant milestone for the coconut industry was marked first in Bayugan City last January 19, 2026 as the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA), under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP), conducted a Cheque Turn-Over Ceremony for the Audit Subsidy program.
The event saw the awarding of financial assistance to 14 Coconut Farmers Cooperatives across Agusan del Sur, aimed at supporting their compliance with audit requirements and strengthening transparency and accountability in cooperative operations.
The subsidy is part of the government’s continuing effort to empower coconut farmers cooperatives by easing the financial burden of mandatory audits. By providing this support, the CDA ensures that cooperatives can maintain good standing with regulatory agencies while focusing resources on improving member services and livelihood programs.
HON. MERLA P. AJAN, City Councilor/ Committee Chair on Cooperatives in Bayugan City Local officials expressed her Message of Support to the coconut farmers.
CDA Regional Director DR. MONATAO HONEYA R. ALAWI, PhD emphasized in her Inspirational Message the importance of the initiative in fostering trust and credibility among cooperatives. Additionally, highlighted that audited financial statements not only ensure compliance but also build confidence among members and stakeholders, paving the way for stronger partnerships and access to more development opportunities.
The 14 CFCs represented thousands of coconut farmers in the province. With the audit subsidy, these organizations are expected to enhance their governance practices, improve financial management, and strengthen their role in uplifting the coconut industry in Caraga Region.
The ceremony was also attended by CDA Assistant Regional Director ANECITA O. UNSON, Agusan del Sur Provincial Cooperative Development Officer JOVELIZA D. COMISION and City Cooperative Development Officer of Bayugan City SCARLET P. ESTUYA.
The Presentation of CFIDP audit subsidy purpose and guidelines was conducted by DEMELYNE B. GABALES, Sr. CDS of CPDAS.
Furthermore, other provinces also conducted cheque release on the following schedules:
| Date | Venue | Particulars |
| January 21, 2025 | Tandag City | Surigao del Sur – 8 Coconut Farmers Cooperatives |
| Bislig City | Surigao del Sur – 2 Coconut Farmers Cooperatives | |
| January 22, 2025 | Surigao City | Surigao del Norte and Province of Dinagat Islands – 8 Coconut Farmers Cooperatives |
The maximum amount granted was ₱5,000 per Coconut Farmer Cooperative. Regardless of the actual audit expenses incurred, the subsidy would not exceed this ceiling.
