Coco Agri Asenso links Bohol

coconut farmers to markets, financing

TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol (PIA) – The Department of Agriculture–Agricultural Training Institute (DA-ATI) Central Visayas opened the two-day Coco Agri Asenso 2026 on August 5 at the Activity Center of Island City Mall here.

The event brought together coconut farmers, exhibitors, and stakeholders to promote the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) through technology exhibits, value-added coconut products, farm equipment, and training opportunities for Bohol’s coconut farmers and local coconut entrepreneurs.

First-day discussions covered the Coconut Industry Roadmap under the CFIDP, market trends for coconut-based products, and funding and credit opportunities for coconut farmers and businesses.

The second day featured demonstrations of "Coco Wellness" products, technology presentations, and market matching activities connecting local producers with buyers.

Board Member Lucille Lagunay of Bohol’s first district, chairperson of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Committee on Agriculture, represented Gov. Erico Aristotle Aumentado and read his message.

“To fully maximize the potential of coconut as one of our leading agricultural products, we must continue to empower and capacitate our coconut farmers and other stakeholders so they can cultivate coconut efficiently and effectively," Aumentado said in the message.

Aumentado also thanked the DA-ATI Regional Training Center VII for leading the activity.

DA-ATI RTC VII Career Development and Management Section Chief Ma. Gracia S. Pungay said the caravan showcases innovative coconut-based products, farming technologies, and support services meant to increase farmers' income.

Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) Region 7 representative Arven Coriba discussed agency programs, projects, and opportunities under the CFIDP and presented regional coconut industry statistics.

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Bohol representative Yoradel Israel discussed global market trends and business opportunities for coconut-based products.

Israel said every part of the coconut generates economic value through high-demand products such as coconut oil, milk, water, sugar, coir fiber, and activated carbon, a concept she described as “One Coconut, Multiple Value Streams.”

She cited opportunities in functional foods, bio-based materials, natural personal care, and sustainable aviation fuel, and said the Philippines continues to pioneer cococellulose technology.

Land Bank of the Philippines (LandBank) Bohol Lending Center Head John Philip Bael presented credit facilities and investment support under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Lending Program.

Agricultural Credit Policy Council representative Eloiza Marie P. Flores presented additional financing programs and credit assistance to improve farmers' access to capital.

Bohol a finalist in Bayaniyugan Awards

Lagunay said Bohol and Quezon province are finalists for Most Outstanding Provincial Local Government Unit in the Bayaniyugan Awards.

The Bayaniyugan Award is a PCA recognition program for individuals, organizations, cooperatives, local government units, and institutions that have contributed to the development of the Philippine coconut industry. (ECB/PIA7-Bohol)

The charcoal briquette product manufactured in Dauis town drew attention during the Coco Agri Asenso 2026 event held at Island City Mall in Tagbilaran City on August 5–6, 2026. Made from 100% natural coconut shells, cassava flour, and water, these briquettes offer a cleaner, longer-burning, and eco-friendly alternative for grilling. (ECB/PIA7-Bohol)