Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson and the executives of the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) led the launching of the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) On-Farm Coconut Hybridization Project in Brgy. Purisima, Manapla, on Tuesday, March 28.
The project aims to mass produce single cross, high-quality coconut hybrids following standard hybridization protocols and good agricultural practices for distribution to the farmers and other coconut industry stakeholders, a press release from the Capitol said.
It is also part of complementing the Regional PCA’s Accelerated Planting and Replanting Program.
Lacson thanked the Department of Agriculture and PCA for choosing Negros Occidental, particularly the town of Manapla, to be part of PCA’s Coconut Hybridization Program, which is very timely and strategic.
He said that with relevant policy interventions and enabling mechanisms, the road to a stronger agricultural sector, resiliency, and food security looks brighter.
Among those present at the activity were PCA 6 Regional Manager Dr. Neil Melencion, PCA Negros Occ. Division Chief Engr. Serafin Auster Layog IV, PCA Administrator Bernie Cruz, Manapla Mayor Manuel Escalante III, and Project Proponent Jose Gerardo Francisco III.*