In a determined effort to bolster farmers’ cooperatives, the Philippine Coconut Authority convened with representatives from the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA), Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP), and Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) on July 16, 2024.

Key topics discussed included the formation of robust cooperatives, achievable only through the collective efforts of the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan’s (CFIDP) Implementing Agencies (IAs). The team outlined a series of actionable solutions that PCA is committed to implementing. These include the development of “𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗼𝗿𝗴𝗮𝗻𝗶𝘇𝗲𝗿𝘀” nationwide, who will spearhead a series of training sessions in each region. These trainings will cover crucial areas such as financial literacy, bookkeeping, business plan development, cooperative formation and organization, accreditation processes, loan policies and mechanisms, compliance requirements, among others.

Set to launch in August, under the leadership of PCA Administrator and CEO Dexter R. Buted, initiatives mark the beginning of a transformative journey for the coconut farming community. In collaboration with the IAs, PCA plans to host a 𝗖𝗼𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀, showcasing exemplary cooperatives that serve as models of cooperation, unity, and best practices. These stories of success will provide invaluable insights for other cooperatives nationwide.

Forming strong farmers' cooperatives is pivotal in empowering coconut farmers, providing them with the resources and knowledge needed to thrive. By fostering unity and cooperation, these cooperatives can enhance farmers' access to financial services, improve their negotiating power, and drive economic growth within the coconut industry.

This collaborative effort aims to create a sustainable and prosperous future for the coconut industry, ensuring that every farmer benefits from the strength of a united cooperative. By fostering cooperation and unity among farmers, PCA aims to create a sustainable and prosperous industry that will uplift the lives of coconut farmers nationwide.