Western Visayas CoCaNut Summit pushes agripreneurship and innovation

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The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region VI successfully concluded its 3rd CoCaNut Summit, held on September 26-27, 2024, at Citadines Amigo Iloilo Hotel, aiming to drive innovation and growth in the region’s coconut, cacao, and coffee industries.

With a theme of “Advancing Together Towards Innovative Agripreneurship,” the two-day event gathered around 250 participants, including farmers, traders, processors, government officials, academics, and financial institutions from across Western Visayas.

In her opening remarks, DTI VI Regional Director Rachel Nufable emphasized the importance of collaboration and sustainable practices in these agricultural sectors.

“The CoCaNut Summit is a key platform for knowledge sharing and networking, helping our agripreneurs stay competitive and adapt to market shifts,” Nufable said. She also noted that the region’s agriculture industry is poised to benefit from innovations and sustainable farming methods.

The summit, which featured insights from experts at the Department of Agriculture, Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), and the Department of Science and Technology, showcased a comprehensive program that included presentations on market trends, hands-on training, and financial access for agribusinesses.

Coconut Market Study and Innovation

One of the event’s highlights was the presentation of the 2023 Market Study on coconut by-products, offering valuable data on emerging trends and market opportunities in the industry. This study served as a guide for farmers and producers looking to expand their reach and capitalize on the growing demand for coconut-based products globally.

Attendees also participated in processing workshops, with experts demonstrating new techniques for transforming raw coconut, cacao, and coffee into high-value products. The summit also featured a lively product exhibit that highlighted innovative products from local producers, showcasing Western Visayas’ creativity and craftsmanship.

Awarding Region’s Top Coffee Producers

The region’s top coffee producers were honored during the summit’s awarding ceremony, following a competition held earlier this year at the Barista and Coffee Academy of Asia Coffee Laboratory in Iloilo. DTI recognized the exceptional skills and dedication of these producers, who underwent rigorous grading, roasting, and cupping evaluations.

“These farmers are putting Western Visayas on the map for coffee excellence. Their passion and expertise are unmatched, and we’re proud to celebrate their success,” said DTI Capiz Provincial Director Ken Queenie Cunada, who serves as the Regional Inclusive Cluster Coordinator for High-Value Coconut Products.

Specialized Breakout Sessions and Financial Support

The second day of the summit featured four breakout rooms, each dedicated to a key area of the coconut, cacao, and coffee sectors. Participants had the opportunity to engage in coconut technology transfer, coffee and tablea tasting, and financial discussions with national government agencies (NGAs) and financial institutions, including the Land Bank of the Philippines, Development Bank of the Philippines, and Small Business Corporation.

These sessions connected agripreneurs with practical knowledge and financial support, with many attendees expressing enthusiasm for the hands-on approach. “This summit helped me understand new market opportunities and gave me access to funding options I didn’t know existed,” said one local farmer who attended the financing session.

Supporting Agripreneurs for Economic Growth

DTI VI reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Western Visayas’ coconut, cacao, and coffee industries, which are viewed as key drivers of economic growth in the region. “We recognize the vital role of these industries in improving livelihoods, and we will continue to provide the support and resources they need to succeed,” Nufable said.

As the summit concluded, participants left with new knowledge, connections, and tools to innovate within their respective industries. The success of the CoCaNut Summit further solidifies Western Visayas’ position as a leader in agripreneurship and market innovation.