Davao Oriental, October 27 --- The Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) Region XI led the launching of a coconut hybrid demo farm in Davao Oriental on October 27, 2020, through the conduct of a ceremonial planting of coconut hybrids.

The 7-hectare demo farm located in San Vicente, Banaybanay, Davao Oriental is currently planted with 1,346 seedlings of PCA 15-2 (MRD x TAGT) hybrid variety, as the farm owner plans to set up a coco sugar and VCO processing facility.

PCA 15-2 is a cross bet ween the Malayan Red Dwarf (MRD) and Tagnanan Tall (TAGT), sourced from PCA-Zamboanga Research Center.

It has a potential yield of 20,972 nuts/yr/ha, and is one of the coconut hybrid varieties highly recommended for coco sugar and virgin coconut oil production.

The launching activity was attended by representatives from PCA Region XI and PCA Davao Oriental, Department of Agriculture RFO XI, DOST XI, and by the local government officials.

PCA Region XI and DA RFO XI committed to provide assistance to ensure the success and sustainability of the hybrid demo farm.

The farm will showcase good agricultural practices in coconut production, proper utilization of land such as the application of intercropping, and other value-adding activities. ### (PCA XI)