Agrarian reform group in Siargao train on coconut processing, product packaging
By Susil D. Ragas
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte (PIA) — In a continuous effort to empower agrarian reform communities through the Department of Trade and Industry-Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (DTI-CARP), a skills training on Coconut Processing cum Packaging and Labeling Seminar was conducted on July 16 for the Nuevo Campo Agrarian Reform Cooperative in Barangay Nuevo Campo, San Benito in Siargao Island.
DTI Surigao del Norte Director Arnold Faelnar said, “The training introduced to the cooperative members the various techniques in coconut processing, complemented by a focused session on proper product packaging and labeling to enhance product quality, market appeal, and compliance with food safety standards.”
“The participants were able to produce a variety of coconut-based products such as cooking oil, juice, vinegar from matured coconut water or “sabaw,” yema and burger patties,” he added.
The technical experts from the Office of the Provincial Agriculture (OPAG) guided the participants through hands-on processing sessions, and the DTI-CARP provincial coordinator gave insights on packaging design, label compliance, and branding strategies.
Members of the cooperative expressed their gratitude for the opportunity saying, “The training is a valuable step toward expanding our livelihood ventures and allowing us to tap the local and regional markets.”
This initiative is aligned with the DTI’s commitment to support agrarian reform beneficiaries through skills development, enterprise building, and inclusive economic growth. (SDR, PIA Surigao del Norte with a report from DTI – SDN)
