𝑀𝑎𝑘𝑎𝑡𝑖 𝐶𝑖𝑡𝑦 – To boost efforts that uplift indigenous coconut farmers, the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) inked a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) today, at the Ayala Museum.

Aimed at empowering Indigenous Cultural Communities/Indigenous Peoples (ICCs/IPs) engaged in coconut farming, the MOA establishes a framework for collaboration in implementing socio-economic programs, livelihood projects, and support mechanisms to enhance the productivity and well-being of indigenous coconut farmers nationwide.

PCA Administrator and CEO Dr. Dexter R. Buted and NCIP Chairperson Jennifer Pia Sibug-Las led the ceremonial signing, joined by key officials from both agencies, industry stakeholders, and representatives of ICCs/IPs. The agreement solidifies the commitment of both institutions to ensure that indigenous coconut farmers are integrated into national agricultural programs and benefit directly from coconut industry development initiatives.

The MOA outlines specific responsibilities for both agencies. PCA will assist NCIP in identifying ancestral lands with existing coconut plantations, register IP coconut farmers in the National Coconut Farmers Registry System, and facilitate their participation in PCA’s programs, including Massive Coconut Planting and Replanting Project. NCIP will facilitate FPIC process, identify ancestral domains, assist in registration of IP farmers, and ensure their active participation in the Authority’s initiatives.

PCA chief underscored the significance of the partnership in addressing long-standing challenges faced by IP coconut farmers. “For centuries, our indigenous peoples have been the silent guardians of our lands. Today, we change the narrative. With this MOA, we ensure that our ICCs/IPs are no longer at the margins of progress but at its very heart,” ADRB said.

NCIP Chairperson Sibug-Las reaffirmed the agency’s dedication to the cause, stating that the agreement will pave the way for long-term sustainable development for indigenous coconut farmers.

The event also saw another MOA signing between NCIP and Ayala Foundation Incorporated (AFI), social development arm of Ayala group of companies, led by AFI President Antonio Joselito G. Lambino II. AFI envisions communities where people are creative, productive, self-reliant, and proud to be Filipino. AFI works closely with communities in identifying developmental needs and providing suitable solutions.

During discussions at the event, recognizing alignment of respective initiatives, PCA, NCIP, and AFI explored potential for greater impact through a possible tripartite agreement. This collaborative effort, while still in initial stages, would leverage strengths of each organization to create more comprehensive and sustainable development programs for IP communities. Further discussions will be needed to determine scope and specifics of this potential partnership.

With the agreement now in place, and the possibility of future tripartite partnerships, PCA, NCIP, and AFI are set to make strides in transforming the coconut industry into a more inclusive and sustainable sector, placing indigenous farmers at the forefront of national development efforts. Photo credit: NCIP