May 19, 2023, | In its 2nd year of implementation of the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) through cooperatives, the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) and the Local Government Unit of Dapitan City (LGU Dapitan) finally inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the establishment of the 2nd Coconut Processing Plant in Region 9.

During the MOU signing, Usec. Joseph B. Encabo represented the CDA and the Honorable Mayor Seth Frederick P. Jalosjos represented the LGU Dapitan. CDA Deputy Administrator Ray R. Elevazo and Dapitan City Agriculturist Cyril A. Patangan witnessed the signing.

The MOU solidifies the commitment of the parties to proactively advance and sustain the growth of the coconut farmers and the coconut industry in Region 9 by virtue of RA 11524 otherwise known as the Coconut Farmers and Industry Trust Fund Act.

RA 11524 aims to consolidate the benefits due to coconut farmers, especially the poor and marginalized and to expedite the delivery of said benefits thereof to attain increased incomes for coconut farmers, alleviate poverty, and achieve social equality.

By: RYAN C. AMILHUSSIN, CDS II