Cebu has over 42,000 coconut farmers

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu Province's coconut farming industry continues to thrive, with over 42,000 registered coconut farmers, according to the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) Cebu.

Johndom Domagtoy, the Provincial Coconut Development Manager (PCDM), reported that Cebu currently cultivates approximately 161,000 hectares of land for coconut farming, with over 156,000 farms actively producing coconuts.

Among the key initiatives driving growth is the Coconut Hybridization Program (CHP), which supports the national goal of planting 100 million coconut trees across the country by 2028.

To contribute to this initiative, the PCA Cebu Provincial Office is establishing two coconut seed farms in the province.

A 30-hectare seed farm located at Cebu Technological University-Barili Campus is being funded under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP).

Meanwhile, an 18-hectare seed farm in Don Gregorio Antigua, Borbon, is financed through the General Appropriations Act (GAA).

In addition to the seed farms, the PCA Cebu has set up communal hybrid nurseries in Cabangkalan, Tuburan; Labangon, Tabogon; and El Pardo, Boljoon.

These nurseries serve as holding areas for hybrid nuts produced from the seed farms, ensuring they receive proper care and fertilizers before distribution to farmers.

Domagtoy urges all coconut farmers to register with the National Coconut Farmers Registry System (NCFRS) to access various government programs and benefits that can enhance their farming practices.

He expressed optimism that the number of registered farmers would increase once online registration resumes this year, following a temporary suspension for system cleansing.

The PCA also reminded the public about the strict regulations governing the cutting of coconut trees under Republic Act 8048, also known as the Coconut Preservation Act of 1995.

Domagtoy emphasized that cutting coconut trees without a permit from the PCA is prohibited.

Violators of this law face penalties, including imprisonment of one to six years or fines ranging from P100,000 to P500,000, depending on the severity of the violation.

“Atong proteksiyonan atong coconuts… kinahanglan magkuha og permit kung putlon,” he stated.

Domagtoy further clarified that only the PCA has the authority to issue permits for cutting coconut trees, not barangay officials.

Coconut trees may only be cut if they meet specific criteria: tall varieties must be at least 60 years old, while dwarf varieties must be at least 40 years old.

Other valid reasons for cutting include non-productivity, severe disease that cannot be rehabilitated, typhoon or lightning damage, conversion of farmland for residential, commercial, or industrial purposes, or if the tree poses a danger to life and property. -  LPM (CEBU NEWS)