The Provincial Government of Zamboanga del Norte held a Coconut Industry Investment Forum at the Zamboanga del Norte Convention and Exhibition Center last June 28, 2024, the main focus of which is white copra production.
Facilitated by none other than the Provincial Planning and Development Office-Local Economic Development Investment Promotion Officer, Ms. Augee Lopez-Velasco, the forum commenced with an inspiring message from the Provincial Governor Rosalina “Nanay Nene” Jalosjos through the Ass’t Provincial Administrator, Mr. Aurelio “Tata” Monteclaro, who welcomed local government units (LGUs), farmer cooperatives, national government agencies, financing institutions, and the Zamboanga-Basilan Integrated Development Alliance, Inc. (ZABIDA) to the activity.
Philippine Coconut Authority-Senior Agriculturist, Mr. Anton Soria, presented the Coconut Industry Roadmap for the province. He described that the favorable climate and abundant coconut plantations in ZaNorte presents a promising opportunity for investment that will support coconut farmers and the industry, particularly the production of white copra which promises significant potential growth and development.
Through a video message, Mr. Franklin Baker of WILMAR Edible Oils Philippines-MASS -SPEC conveyed his optimistic view for the opportunities for the coconut industry in Zamboanga del Norte. At present WILMAR already operates coconut oil mill and crushing in Barangay Nabilid, Roxas of this province.
Project Development Officer, Ms. Maila Dinolan, presented the White Copra Project Proposal which aims to improve the production process of copra, addressing the market demands, and ensuring quality standards by acquiring non-conventional production ways and tools such mechanical and hot air dryers making it possible to produce white copra. Currently, this is not yet practiced in the province due to unavailable equipment, financial constraints, and resistance on the part of the farmers. The presentation addresses these concerns.
An engaging open forum from the different attendees ensued thereafter which ended on a positive note as the Chairperson of ZABIDA, Atty. Jose Manuel Mamauag, expressed his words of affirmation for the forum held.
Ultimately, such investment not only revitalizes the coconut farming sector but also contributes to the overall development and prosperity of the entire province of Zamboanga del Norte. (Ginalin G. Ma)
(Source: Provincial Government of Zamboanga del Norte)