The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), through the RAPID Growth Project, conducted a four-day Training on Technology Transfer for Coconut Production from June 22 to 25, 2026, in Barangay Christianuevo, Lebak, Sultan Kudarat, to strengthen the capabilities of local coconut farmers and promote sustainable, high-quality coconut production.

The training brought together members of the Lebak Coconut Farmers Agriculture Cooperative (LECOFAC), equipping them with practical knowledge and hands-on skills in Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), Integrated Pest and Disease Management (IPDM), and Quality Copra Production. These interventions are designed to improve farm productivity, increase product quality, and enhance the income potential of coconut farming communities.

The activity began with a pre-assessment to evaluate the participants' existing knowledge on GAP, IPDM, and quality copra production. The results guided the delivery of the training sessions and served as a benchmark for measuring participants' learning throughout the program.

Participants attended comprehensive discussions on Good Agricultural Practices, followed by field demonstrations that allowed them to apply recommended techniques in proper farm management, sanitation, fertilization, and crop maintenance. The training also featured sessions on Integrated Pest and Disease Management, where farmers learned practical and environmentally sound approaches to identifying, preventing, and controlling common coconut pests and diseases. A live demonstration on the installation and proper use of insect traps further reinforced effective pest monitoring and management practices.

To complete the training, participants received instruction on Quality Copra Production, focusing on proper harvesting, drying, handling, and storage techniques to produce copra that meets market standards while minimizing post-harvest losses.

Through the RAPID Growth Project, DTI continues to empower coconut farmers by transferring appropriate technologies and promoting climate-resilient and sustainable farming practices. By strengthening farmers' technical capabilities, the project contributes to increased productivity, improved product quality, and better livelihood opportunities for coconut-growing communities in Sultan Kudarat.