LINAMON, Lanao del Norte — The Philippine Coconut Authority-Region 10 (PCA-10), in collaboration with the Provincial Government of Lanao del Norte, has inaugurated the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan-Coconut Hybridization Program (CFIDP-CHP) Seed Farm at the Metro Iligan Regional Agro-Industrial Center (MIRAIC) in Linamon. The project, launched on March 11, 2025, aims to strengthen the local coconut industry and secure a sustainable future for coconut farmers across Region 10.
PCA-10 Acting Regional Manager Rolan Callo lauded the partnership between PCA and the provincial government, emphasizing that the project marks the beginning of more initiatives aimed at improving coconut productivity and sustainability.
“Today’s ceremony marks a new beginning as we are now committed to partnering with the local government of Lanao del Norte in our goals of coconut productivity and sustainability. We are positive about working together on future endeavors that will further enhance and advance the lives of our farmers in this region,” Callo said.
The CFIDP-CHP Seed Farm, also referred to as the Coconut Seed Garden, is a multi-purpose facility that will produce high-quality coconut seedlings to improve yields, support biofuel production, and serve as a learning and research hub for students and agricultural experts. Given that coconut farming is a vital livelihood in the province, this facility is anticipated to significantly impact the local economy.
PCA-10 has secured 5 hectares of land within MIRAIC, which will be utilized for the next 25 years. This long-term investment ensures that the seed farm will not only provide quality planting materials but also serve as a training ground for future farmers and researchers.
Several key officials graced the launch, including Engr. Mohamad-Faiz Macakiling, Division Chief of PCA-Lanao del Norte; Randy Macapil, Municipal Mayor of Linamon; Hon. Reinario Bihag, Sangguniang Panlalawigan Member and Committee Chair on Agriculture; and Engr. Jalandoni Pitiilan, Provincial Agriculturist.
During the ceremony, attendees planted seeds of the Tacunan coconut variety, symbolizing their dedication to the seed farm’s success. The Tacunan variety is known for its high-yield potential, making it an ideal choice for boosting coconut production in the region.
MIRAIC Manager Engr. Felgene Vim Francisco-Tiongco acknowledged the role of Governor Imelda “Angging” Quibranza Dimaporo in ensuring the project’s swift approval. “Governor Angging did not hesitate to support this project when PCA proposed this seed farm nga pwede ibutang diri sa MIRAIC,” she stated.
This initiative is expected to stimulate economic growth, create more opportunities for farmers, and contribute to the long-term sustainability of the coconut industry. With continued collaboration and dedication, the CFIDP-CHP Seed Farm stands as a vital investment in the future of Lanao del Norte and its people.
