The Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) celebrated the International Day of Cooperatives by highlighting its successful initiatives empowering calamansi and coconut farmer cooperatives in Oriental Mindoro and Quezon provinces.
"Empowering local farmers through cooperatives is a cornerstone of sustainable agricultural development. By providing the necessary tools and knowledge, we enable farmers to improve their livelihoods and contribute to the broader economic growth," said SEARCA Center director Dr. Glenn Gregorio.
Calamansi farmers
SEARCA's efforts in Oriental Mindoro focused on enhancing the entire value chain for calamansi farmers.
This involved advanced training in agricultural techniques, introduction of sustainable practices, and establishment of stronger market linkages.
SEARCA conducted workshops and field demonstrations to teach calamansi farmers modern cultivation methods, pest management, and postharvest handling, resulting in improved yield quality and quantity.
Calamansi farmers were also trained on organic farming, soil health management, and water conservation techniques, promoting both productivity and environmental sustainability.
SEARCA facilitated connections between farmer cooperatives and potential buyers, including supermarkets, food processing companies, and export markets, ensuring better prices and more stable income for farmers.
Victoria Kalamansi Farmers Federation president Ruel Sanchez, attributed SEARCA's support in establishing their federation, which led to securing government funding and support.
Coconut industry
SEARCA teamed up with the local government and coconut farmer cooperatives in Quezon to address declining productivity and market instability through intercropping systems, capacity-building programs, and the development of a coconut industry roadmap.
In early 2023, SEARCA introduced intercropping systems, allowing farmers to grow high-value crops like cacao and coffee alongside coconut trees, improving soil health and providing additional income streams.
SEARCA conducted trainings and workshops on best agricultural practices, financial management, and cooperative governance, enhancing farmers' productivity and resource management capabilities.
The agency contributed to the development of the Quezon Coconut Industry Roadmap (2024-2026), aiming to improve farmers' lives by expanding production, increasing productivity, and empowering farmers' organizations through training and improved farming techniques.
President of a coconut farmer cooperative in Catanauan, Quezon Province Jonathan Sibolino, attested how SEARCA's project influenced government direction towards interventions that benefit coconut farmers.
Cooperative success
Gregorio highlighted the success stories from Oriental Mindoro and Quezon provinces as examples of the immense potential of cooperatives in agricultural development due to their strength in numbers and shared responsibility.
SEARCA's initiatives not only support agricultural development but also strengthen the social fabric of rural areas, fostering a sense of community and shared progress.
SEARCA envisions a future where farmer cooperatives play a vital role in driving agricultural development and improving the lives of farmers throughout the Philippines.
"As we celebrate this International Day of Cooperatives, SEARCA reaffirms its commitment to empowering farmer cooperatives across the Philippines. SEARCA will continue to champion initiatives that drive innovation, sustainability, partnership, and prosperity for our farming communities," Gregorio said.