Zamboanga City, March 11 – Basilan Governor Jim Salliman-Hataman met with the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) Deputy Administrator earlier today to discuss the implementation of the coconut recovery program, including the distribution of 10,000 coconut seedlings under the Localized National Initiative (LNI) program.
The initiative aims to revitalize the coconut industry in Basilan by providing high-quality seedlings to farmers, ensuring sustainable agricultural development in the region. The seedlings will be distributed to members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) under the leadership of Commander Rajan in Lamitan City.
This effort is part of the broader coconut rehabilitation strategy to support farmers and communities recovering from agricultural setbacks. Governor Salliman-Hataman emphasized the importance of the program in improving livelihoods and strengthening the coconut industry as a key economic driver for Basilan.
The PCA reaffirmed its commitment to assisting local farmers through seedling distribution, technical support, and other interventions aimed at enhancing productivity and sustainability in the coconut sector.
The distribution of seedlings is expected to take place in the coming weeks, with local authorities ensuring that the program reaches its intended beneficiaries effectively. Further collaboration between the Basilan provincial government and the PCA is anticipated to expand support for coconut farmers in the region.
