The Makilala Multi-Purpose Cooperative (MakMPC) marked another significant milestone with the Blessing of its newly acquired ₱2 million hauling truck, a vital addition to its expanding agricultural trading operations.

This strategic investment was made possible through the matching grant assistance approved under the Franklin Baker Plus Detailed Investment Plan, with 60% of the project cost funded through the DTI RAPID Growth Project, funded by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and the remaining 40% provided by MakMPC as its equity counterpart. This collaborative investment underscores the strong partnership among the government, development partners, private sector, and farmer cooperatives in advancing inclusive agricultural development.

With a 20-ton hauling capacity, the truck will significantly enhance the cooperative’s logistics and trading operations, particularly in the transport of coconut whole nuts and copra. The acquisition is expected to improve the efficiency of product consolidation and delivery, reduce transportation constraints, strengthen market linkages, and increase the competitiveness of MakMPC and its farmer-members.

The hauling truck serves as a vital asset in supporting the cooperative’s growing agricultural enterprise, enabling it to meet market demands more effectively while improving the overall value chain of the coconut industry in the area.

The initiative reflects the continuing commitment of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) RAPID Growth Project, funded by IFAD, together with Franklin Baker and MakMPC, to promote sustainable rural development through strategic investments that enhance productivity, strengthen market access, generate livelihood opportunities, and improve the economic well-being of farming communities.

By investing in better logistics and stronger market connectivity, MakMPC is paving the way for a more resilient, competitive, and prosperous coconut industry for its members and the community it serves.