PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY

RESEARCH JOURNAL

(PCARJ)

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL i

 Copyright Page
All rights reserved
No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or
transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording
or otherwise, without the prior permission from the Philippine Coconut Authority.

© PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL (PCARJ)

2024

This is published semi-annually by the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA)

with the address: PCA Building, Elliptical Road, Diliman, Quezon City
Email Address: [email protected]
Website: https://pca.gov.ph/
Contact Person: Ms. Czarina Mae B. Enarsao
Mobile number: 0917 373 2957

First Published: June 15, 2024

ISSN Print: 3028-1393

Authors:
Dr. Dexter R. Buted

Philippine Copyright 2024 by:

Dr. Dexter R. Buted
Philippine Coconut Authority

ii PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

About the Journal
The Philippine Coconut Authority Research Journal (PCARJ) is a print
journal which aims to provide valuable and fresh perspectives on the
coconut and palm oil sectors, agriculture, and sustainable development.
Initially, this journal was submitted to the National Library of the
Philippines for the application of its International Standard Serial Number
(ISSN) through ISSN Portal (https://portal.issn.org/). In collaboration with
the PCA Research & Development Branch, the journal is submitted to local
and international indexation bodies for a wider dissemination.

The Philippine Coconut Authority Research Journal (PCARJ) is a peer-

reviewed print journal published twice a year which highlights the latest
research and trends in coconut and palm Industries.

The journal welcomes full-length research articles, reviews, perspectives,

and commentaries from researchers in the academic and industry sectors
and/or research conducted by the PCA Research and Development Branch.

The PCA Research Journal aggressively promotes an inclusive and

representative publishing culture while upholding stringent ethical
publication requirements.

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL iii

 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESARCH JOURNAL (PCARJ)
CONSULTANT: Dr. Ian Dagli Evangelista
Vice President for Local and International
Affairs
Pangasinan State University

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Dr. Dexter R. Buted

Administrator/CEO
Philippine Coconut Authority

ASSOCIATE EDITORS: Gen. Roy T. Devesa

Deputy Administrator for Research &
Development Branch
Philippine Coconut Authority

Ms. Alejandria Aileen B. Belen

Senior Science Research Specialist
Philippine Coconut Authority

Ms. Ma. Odessa M. Pacaul

Department Manager,
Corporate Planning Service
Philippine Coconut Authority

MANAGING EDITORS: Mr. Lester B. Tombado

Head Executive Assistant, Office of the
Administrator
Philippine Coconut Authority

Ms. Czarina Mae B. Enarsao

Supervising Administrative Officer,
Office of the Administrator
Philippine Coconut Authority

Mr. Kennex S. Guerzon

Executive Assistant III, Office of the
Administrator
Philippine Coconut Authority

iv PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

 Editorial Team
Dr. Cristeta Cueto
Department Manager, Albay Research Center

Ms. Marianita Eroy

Department Manager, Davao Research Center

Dr. Liberty Canja

Department Manager, Zamboanga Research Center

Ms. Ma. Celia Raquepo

Division Chief, Laboratory Services Division

External Reviewers
Dr. Mac Sylvester Garcia
Doctor of Philosophy in Agriculture
Laguna State Polytechnic University
Laguna

Dr. Alfe M. Solina

Doctor of Business Administration
Cavite State University - Imus Campus
Imus City, Cavite

Dr. Lilibeth P. Novicio

Dean, College of Agriculture, Food, Environment
and Natural Resources (CAFENR)
Cavite State University - Main Campus
Indang, Cavite

Dr. Adolfo Manuel

Former Dean, CAFENR
Cavite State University – Main Campus
Indang, Cavite

Dr. Rowena Vargas-Isidro

Iloilo Science and Technology University
Social Science Department
La Paz, Iloilo City

Graphic/Layout Artists:
Mr. Armien Jay C. Mappala & Ms. Krisxyza Louraine F. Cruz

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL v

 Editorial and Preface
Editorial Team
The Philippine Coconut Authority Research Journal (PCARJ) is delighted to
present its First Issue, Volume Dr. 1Cristeta
No. 1, Cueto
June 2024. This first local journal
Department Manager, Albay
publication is dedicated to agricultural education, Research Center biotechnology,
bioenergy,
production, technology, management, environmental policy, health and
Ms. Marianita Eroy
wellness, manufacturing, food safety,Davao
Department Manager, food technology, and engineering, to
Research Center
name a few of the relevant fields of research.
Dr. Liberty Canja
It is a privilege to bring together
Department Manager,professional
Zamboanga researchers to create a platform
Research Center
that will inspire, invent, and revolutionize the coconut and palm oil sectors.
Ms. Ma. Celia Raquepo
In a world that isDivision
rapidlyChief, Laboratory
changing, Services Division
the importance of agricultural research
cannot be overstated. It offers society a pillar of strength as well as a ray of
External Reviewers
hope for the future. This journal aims to serve as a bridge between research
and practice, promoting Dr. collaboration
Mac Sylvester andGarcia
communication between the
academe and the industry.
Doctor of Philosophy in Agriculture
Laguna State Polytechnic University
I thank the Editorial Board, reviewers, Laguna and the staff from the Office of the
Administrator and the Research and Development Branch whose hard work
and dedication made this first Dr.issue
Alfe possible.
M. SolinaI am also appreciative to our
readers, whose engagementDoctor of
andBusiness
supportAdministration
will ensure a smooth operation of
our publication. Cavite State University - Imus Campus
Imus City, Cavite

Dr. Lilibeth P. Novicio

DR.Dean, College
DEXTER R.ofBUTED
Agriculture, Food, Environment and Natural Resources
Administrator/CEO (CAFENR)
Cavite State University - Main Campus
Editor-in-Chief
Indang, Cavite

Dr. Adolfo Manuel

Former Dean, College of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Natural
Resources (CAFENR)
Cavite State University – Main Campus
Indang, Cavite

Dr. Rowena Vargas-Isidro

Iloilo Science and Technology University
Social Science Department
La Paz, Iloilo City


vi 
PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL
 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL
GUIDELINES

The Philippine Coconut Authority Research Journal (PCARJ) is a semi-

annual publication produced by PCA under the leadership of its new
administrator, Dr. Dexter R. Buted. With a focus on coconut and palm oil
research, PCARJ stands as a refereed publication committed to presenting
groundbreaking perspectives on agricultural advancements.
This journal is submitted to various online platforms which are indexed by
Google Scholar and other indexation bodies.

AIMS AND SCOPE

The PCARJ is an interdependent journal that is subject to peer review. This
local journal publication is dedicated to myriad of facets in agriculture such
as: agricultural extension, production, technology, management,
environment, policies, health and wellness, manufacturing, food safety, food
technology, varietal improvement and biotechnology, food and non-food
products, bioenergy, technology transfer, and engineering are just a few of
the pertinent research fields that are included in the PCARJ.

The primary goal of this publication is to serve as a platform for

disseminating high-quality and cutting-edge research, innovative methods,
and stimulating discussions within agricultural domains. Further, it aims to
encourage collaboration and knowledge exchange among coconut
researchers, scientists, educators, practitioners, and policymakers as they
address the complex issues and opportunities in these interwoven domains
of agricultural education and industry.

PURPOSE
The PCARJ encourages the integration of various research from different
authors and researchers in order to have a thorough knowledge of the
agricultural landscape. The PCARJ's main goals are to increase
understanding, promote collaboration, and provide significant input into
the development of informed policies and practices in the ever-changing and
dynamic fields of agricultural education and research.

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL vii

 TYPES OF RESEARCH ARTICLES PUBLISHED
Apart from the basic and applied research, the PCARJ welcomes
submissions that fit under the following areas:

1. Research articles based on original investigations

A primary terminal report is submitted to the Research and Development
Branch and to those who are directly involved in carrying out the research
investigation. Since the journal has just been created, the coconut researchers
are required to submit their research paper using the IMRAD format. This
contains five main sections that outline the researchers' study. It includes an
abstract, list of credited sources, and tables/figures. The main components
of its fundamental structure should be the five (5) main sections:
a) Introduction
b) Methods
c) Results
d) Discussion
e) Conclusions

The Introduction provides an overview of the pertinent literature, theoretical

underpinnings, framework, and importance. The methodology includes the
study's framework, individuals involved, tools utilized, processes followed,
analysis of data, and maintenance of data. The Results section provides a
comprehensive presentation of the collected data and findings, while also
addressing the study questions. The Discussion section analyzes the findings
in connection with the theoretical literature and framework. Ultimately, the
Conclusions section presents the overarching findings and proposed
suggestions.

An Original Research Report typically consists of approximately 6,000-8,000

words, excluding references, tables, and figures. The maximum allowable
word count for the abstract is 250 words, accompanied by 5 keywords.
Manuscripts must adhere to APA 7th edition guidelines for formatting,
references, and citations.

2. Theoretical Analyses
A theoretical review is a systematic examination and integration of relevant
literature about a fundamental subject within the agricultural domain. It

viii PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

offers a thorough overview and evaluative examination of scholarly
literature, elucidating the current status of research or the specific subject of
study. The theoretical review should provide insights for practical
application and analyze the consequences for educational practice. It offers
insights on the future direction of the field and the corresponding areas of
research. The components of the theoretical review include:

The introduction defines the essential principles and scope of the review.
The strategy describes the specific steps that are taken. The review section
explains the systematic review results. The critique of the research literature
looks at the underlying themes, omissions, and trends in the literature. The
conclusions and suggestions section summarizes the findings and identifies
topics for future research and program enhancement.

The Theoretical Analyses typically span approximately 6,000-8,000 words.

Authors are strongly advised to include at least 10-20 primary research
articles in the analysis of the theoretical review. The abstract should have a
maximum of 250 words with 5 keywords. The document must be formatted,
referenced, and cited using the APA 7th edition criteria.

3. Case Analyses
Case analyses necessarily involve a comprehensive examination and
assessment of specific agricultural circumstances or problems. When
crafting paragraphs for case analysis, it is essential to follow a meticulously
organized approach to guarantee lucidity and logical flow.

The introduction clearly outlines the objectives of the work, the pertinent
context, and the specific subject or concerns being addressed. This method
delineates the criteria by which policy options can be assessed. The policy
analysis component conducts in-depth research to support proposed policy
actions, encompassing the evaluation, alteration, formulation, or
termination of policies. The conclusions and recommendations section
provides a succinct summary of the research findings and proposes specific
actions to improve policy.

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL ix

 The Case Analyses typically consist of approximately 6,000-8,000 words. It
is strongly advised to include at least 10-20 primary research articles in the
analysis of the theoretical review. The abstract should have a maximum of
250 words with 5 keywords. The document must be formatted, referenced,
and cited using the APA 7th edition criteria.

ETHICS STATEMENTS

The PCARJ is committed to maintaining the utmost integrity in research and

publication by adhering to the highest ethical standards. Authors, reviewers,
and editors are required to follow norms that promote honesty, openness,
and responsibility in the scientific publishing process.

Authors must guarantee the originality of their manuscripts and affirm that
they have not already been previously published elsewhere. It is vital to
properly acknowledge all sources and contributions, and any potential
conflicts of interest must be publicly disclosed. Plagiarism in any form is
strictly prohibited, and authors are strongly advised to follow appropriate
citation standards. The journal permits a maximum of 15% rate plagiarism
as determined by a reliable plagiarism detection software.

The Editorial Board oversees the rigorous process from manuscript

submission to publication. Editors ensure fairness and impartiality in their
assessments, evaluating manuscripts based on excellence, relevance, and
inimitability, regardless of authors' affiliations or backgrounds. Manuscripts
are treated with strict confidentiality, and submission information is not
disclosed without author’s consent.

Reviewers play an important role in ensuring the quality and integrity of the
whole publishing process. They are expected to provide impartial and
objective evaluations of the submissions. Reviewers are also expected to
keep all manuscripts completely confidential and to publicly declare any
potential conflicts of interest. They offer constructive criticism to help
authors improve their work. Review findings are treated as strictly
confidential documents by the Philippine Coconut Authority.

x PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

External reviewers may be invited from various kinds of public and private
entities, as well as colleges and universities. They will contribute to the
journal as needed, based on their area of expertise.

The editors are committed to maintaining objectivity and justice throughout

the editorial process. The editorial assessments are based on the work's
excellence, relevance, and uniqueness, without regard for the writers'
affiliations or backgrounds. Editors will treat manuscripts with complete
confidentiality and will not reveal any submission information without
appropriate consent. The editor-in-chief has a close coordination with the
consultants when there is a need to discuss important matters about the
journal.

The PCARJ adheres completely to the principles and norms of responsible

and ethical research. Authors must follow appropriate ethical principles and
norms, such as obtaining informed consent for human subject’s research and
protecting individuals' rights and privacy. A Data Privacy Form must be
completed and submitted by the author to the PCA Research and
Development Branch (RDB).

Peer Review Policy

The PCARJ employs a rigorous peer-review process, consisting of three

phases: compliance with submission prerequisites, initial screening, and
comprehensive evaluation. Thus, it ensures the quality and integrity of
published research. During the first issue, the Office of the Administrator
(OFAD) in collaboration with the Research and Development Branch will
facilitate the process of review.

PUBLICATION PROCESS

1. Submission:
Authors/Scientists submit their research manuscripts via google form or to
this email: [email protected]. Submissions are expected to adhere
to the journal guidelines for manuscript preparation and submission. The
submitted articles will be subjected to a rigorous review procedure. Authors
are required to promptly communicate with the RDB or the managing
editors under OFAD throughout the process.

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL xi

 2. Initial Review:
Upon submission, the editorial team conducts an initial review of the
manuscript to ensure adherence to the journal's guidelines and to ensure the
manuscript's alignment with the journal's scope and focus. Manuscripts that
do not meet the journal's basic requirements may be returned to
authors/scientists for revision at this stage. Additionally, at this stage, the
editors will assess the submission for compliance with the requirements of
PCARJ, as well as for any resemblance to other works and instances of
plagiarism through a software like Turnitin with a maximum of 15 %
similarity index.

3. Review Process:
Manuscripts that pass the initial review are sent out for another review
process. Expert reviewers with relevant expertise in the subject area of the
manuscript will evaluate the manuscript for its quality, originality,
methodology, significance, and contribution to the field.

4. Reviewer Reports:
Reviewers provide detailed reports assessing the strengths and weaknesses
of the manuscript. Based on these reports, submitted articles have the
possibility of being accepted without revisions, accepted with minor
revisions, revised manuscripts with major revisions, or not accepted at any
of these stages.

5. Author Revisions, If Necessary:

Authors receive feedback from reviewers and the editorial team as
stipulated in the Notice of Acceptance issued by the RDB. If revisions are
required, authors are typically allowed to address the reviewers ‘comments
and make necessary changes to their manuscript.

6. Editorial Team Decision:

The Editorial Board will make the final decision regarding the acceptance or
non-acceptance of the paper.

7. Proofreading and Copyediting:

Accepted manuscripts go through proofreading and copyediting to ensure
language clarity, style consistency, and proper formatting.

xii PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

8. Publication:
Once the manuscript is finalized and the author is satisfied with the proof,
the article will be published in the Philippine Coconut Authority Research
Journal (PCARJ).

9. Ethical Considerations:
The journal takes issues of research integrity and ethical conduct seriously.
Plagiarism and research misconduct are rigorously monitored and violating
authors will be reprimanded accordingly.

11. Author Recognition:

All researchers will receive a Certificate of Publication to recognize their
scholarly works signed by its Editor-in-Chief and/or PCA Administrator.
These certificates will be awarded during the Flag Raising Ceremony of PCA
or in a formal forum like conferences or congress.

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES

Style Guidelines
1. The Philippine Coconut Authority Research Journal (PCARJ) accepts
papers written in English.

2. Use bold Times New Roman font with a font size of 12 for the title.
Capitalize all proper nouns and omit the use of a period after the title.

3. The authors of the manuscript should have made significant

contributions to the intellectual content of the work, including the
conception, design, development, analysis, and critical writing. Upon
submission of the manuscript, all authors are expected to take
responsibility for their contributions and have given their consent to
the final version of the manuscript and its submission to the PCARJ.

4. All headings must be formatted in Times New Roman with a font size
of 12. Apply capitalization to the initial letter of proper nouns. To
differentiate between the various levels of headers, adhere to the
following instructions:

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL xiii

 5. The abstract, acknowledgments, and main body of the paper should
be formatted using Times New Roman font, size 12, and double
spacing.

6. The abstract should be placed on a distinct page and must not exceed
250 words with five (5) Keywords.

7. Adhere to the APA 7th edition requirements when it comes to

referencing and citations, as well as the formatting of tables and
figures. Use Times New Roman typeface with a font size of 12 for
consistency.

8. The manuscript should adhere to a consistent single-column layout

across the entire document.

9. Tables and figures should be added according to APA 7th edition style
guidelines. The titles in the table should be written on top while the
figure titles should be written below it.

10.The acknowledgment section should be included.

11.The PCARJ adheres to the formatting requirements outlined in the 7th

edition of the American Psychological Association (APA) Publication
Manual. These guidelines include the structure and presentation of
manuscripts, tables, figures, citations, and references in scientific and
scholarly publications. For further details, visit
https://apastyle.apa.org.

12. Other concerns, queries, or clarifications may be emailed to

[email protected] or [email protected].

xiv PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

OPEN CALL FOR PAPERS FOR PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY
RESEARCH JOURNAL

The primary objective of the PCARJ is to promote academic research on both

theoretical and practical aspects of the agricultural sector. The PCARJ
publishes articles that comprehensively document and examine the
experience in the field of agriculture. It could be based on well-grounded
theory, rigorous methodology, and/or perceptive analysis. Additionally, it
serves as a platform for conducting comparative research in education and
agriculture settings.

The PCARJ welcomes submissions of basic and applied research, original

research reports, theoretical reviews, and policy studies as part of its
scholarly journal.

Join us in our mission to promote excellence in agricultural research and

contribute to the growth and development of the agricultural sector. Submit
your manuscripts to the PCARJ and be part of our community of scholars
dedicated to advancing agricultural science and practice.

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL xv

xvi
 ACCELERATED DEVELOPMENT OF COCONUT SYNTHETIC VARIETY
USING CLASSICAL BREEDING METHODS AND MICROSATELLITE
MARKER TECHNOLOGY
Ramon L. Rivera1, Ernesto E. Emmanuel2 and Susan M. Rivera3

Email: [email protected]
Philippine Coconut Authority

Abstract
With some modifications of the classical breeding method, a scheme was formulated to produce the base
populations (Syn0) of the first synthetic coconut variety using single crosses from six outstanding tall
cultivars. The possibility of generating an array of parental palms bearing balanced heterozygosity and
stable yield is now being pursued through the application of classical breeding approaches and the
advances in microsatellite marker technology. Using the equation of Eberhart et al (1967), eight double
cross populations with the highest predicted copra and nut yields were identified and became the basis
for the selection of ten t x t single crosses as parental materials in the production of seednuts for the
establishment of 2nd generation breeding lines (Syn1). Coconut seedfarm establishment was completed
following the field planting of 1,921 progeny seedlings. DNA analyses of the test materials provided
promising results towards generating an array of parental palms bearing balanced heterozygosity with
stable yield. Using four SSR markers, Syn1 have higher levels of heterozygosity compared to Syn0 and
the parental populations. In some cases, levels of heterozygosity were sustained with greater evenness
in allelic frequencies towards the advance generations. Genetic diversity of Syn1 was very high at 0.92.
Keywords – Coconut synthetic variety; microsatellite marker (SSR); heterozygosity; genetic diversity;
and controlled hand pollination.

Introduction
The use of seeds from any high yielding planting materials is a traditional practice among
coconut farmers. This practice although wise and practical sometimes leads to disastrous
results when applied to seeds from F1 hybrids and worse if it involves taking them from
dwarf x tall (d x t) single crosses. Unknown to many farmers, d x t hybrids inherit the
self-pollinating trait of the dwarf parent. In a plantation of d x t palms, open pollination
among these palms produces inbred seeds with higher frequency. This mating process
leads to inbreeding depression, which is expressed in lower yields and general decline in
the vigor of the succeeding generations.

Farmers who tried planting d x t hybrids during the last 20 years have mixed opinions
about their choice of planting materials. In general, most Filipino farmers prefer high
yielding planting materials with medium to large size nuts. They disregard small seeded
ones because they had been used to the traditional commercial variety, which naturally
bear medium to large nuts. Moreover, farm labor costs involved from nut harvesting to
copra processing are paid on a per nut basis.

Many locally bred hybrids perform 3 to 4 times better than the traditional varieties due

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 1

 to their more efficient nutrient utilization. They are early bearing, “short” stature, and
therefore, easy to harvest. Due to greater adaptability, they also have the desirable trait
of superior recovery after a period of stress. They make up for lost yield in a short period
of time; hence they have become the popular choice in agricultural development.
Unfortunately, the use of hybrids requires big investment on seed production which
cash-strapped governments like the Philippines can ill afford to sustain.

The development of open-pollinated varieties (OPVs) offers greater advantages because

farmers can use the seeds of the original plantation over succeeding generations, again
and again. The fundamental aim is to produce a population of palms having a high
degree of balanced heterozygosity (Banzon and Velasco, 1982). This breeding scheme is
considered by many coconut breeders impossible to do due to the perennial nature of
coconut. Based on the breeding procedure for a synthetic variety, a modified breeding
method was developed by PCA for coconut. Notwithstanding the limitations of possible
inbreeding, and the difficulties of identifying the superior genotype (e.g. heterozygotes)
during or after open-pollination, the development of synthetic varieties could be a more
cost-effective means of plant propagation for coconut since it would ensure the
deployment and use of superior planting materials with durable stability and yield.
Using a 15-year data, Rivera et al (2008) presented a comprehensive report on the status
and prospects of the development of coconut synthetic variety, in particular the
development and performance of the t x t base populations (Syn0) compared to the
parental populations, including the initial application of microsatellites or simple
sequence repeats (SSRs) marker technology.

Advances in DNA technology show that SSR markers for coconut could discern between
phenotypically similar varieties and/or plant types with heterozygous genotypes even
at the nursery stage (Rivera et al., 1999). The application of this robust DNA technology
is facilitating the current efforts on the development of OPVs, in particular the PCA-Syn
Var 001 from 14 variety hybrids (Rivera et al., 2008).

Optimum utilization of molecular marker technology could make significant impact on

the methods of assessment of the genetic structure of coconut populations as well as in
locating desirable genes in breeding materials. With such applications, important phases
in the conventional breeding protocol such as in case of development of coconut OPVs
through the synthetic variety approach, and the identification of heterozygous
individuals possessing desirable traits can be accelerated. Moreover, the identification
and use of linked markers could facilitate the selection and higher probability of
obtaining desired genotypes. These techniques, once properly developed and utilized,
could pave the way for coconut breeders to optimize genetic improvement methods.

This research work aims not only provide information on the genetic structure of the
resultant populations from the PCA SYN VAR foundation parents with that of the DNA
patterns of the inter-crossed t x t F1 hybrids, but also more importantly apply the DNA
molecular marker technology to complement the classical breeding methods in

2 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

identifying and selecting superior materials at the earliest time possible, i.e. seedling
stage, for the establishment of coconut seedfarms. The application of DNA marker
technologies could accelerate the establishment of coconut seedfarms using PCA
Synthetic Variety and provide the necessary genetic diversity in future coconut stands.
Using the same technology, a protocol could be developed and utilized in the assessment
and accreditation of coconut plantations for possible sources of high-quality planting
materials for accelerated planting/replanting program.

METHODS AND PROCEDURE

Microsatellite loci were scored individually, and the different alleles were screened and
recorded for each parent population and breeding lines. Two different inter-sample
similarity matrices were constructed (1) based on shared alleles using the simple
matching coefficient calculated at each locus separately, and then the mean across loci
were taken; and (2) each allele was treated for every locus as a separate band, and the
Jaccard coefficient was used as the measure of similarity analogous to the manner in
which RAPD and AFLPs are scored. Cluster analysis was performed on the similarity
matrix using the unweighted pair group method with arithmetic averages (UPGMA),
and the resultant dendograms were constructed. The similarity matrices were put into a
principal coordinate analysis (PCO), and the scores for the resultant first three
components were plotted pair-wise. Genetic diversity (D = 1-Σpi2) values were calculated
according to Nei (1973). Data on the number of polymorphic loci, allelic richness, %
heterozygosity and the kind alleles present were recorded.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Hybrid Seednut Production Using the Classical Breeding Methods
Pollen Collection and Processing
Coconut pollen utilized in the hybridization works amounted to 1,620 g for the AP and
718.5 g for the CHP techniques.

Coconut pollen collection and processing started on the early part of 2006 while the
mother palms are being prepared for CHP and AP operations. For the AP activities, the
coconut pollen were collected and processed in bulk. On the other hand, for the CHP
operation the coconut pollen used were those from the targeted source palms, collected
and processed individually from each palm.

Production of Seednuts and Seedlings from the Hand Pollination

From the harvested pollinated nuts, 14,394 and 2,047 nuts from AP and CHP techniques,
respectively, were sown in nursery beds. AP and CHP activities commenced on August
2006 with AP operations ending on September 2007 while CHP activities were completed

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 3

 in June 2008. Harvesting of pollinated seednuts commenced one year after hand
pollination. Out of the 9,680 germinated AP seednuts, 4,086 were selected for polybag
nursery operations while 1,534 seedlings were polybagged from 1,728 CHP nuts. The
produced pollinated seednuts are more than enough to cover the establishment of one
coconut seed farm consisting of 2nd generation (Syn1) of breeding lines of the Syn Var
population at the PCA-Zamboanga Research Center.

The rest of the pollinated seednuts were utilized for the establishment of coconut
seedfarms in the PCA Research and Regional Centers and identified farm sites in strategic
coconut growing provinces of the country. The results of such activities are covered by
another report.

Coconut Seedfarm Establishment at PCA-ZRC

A total area of 20 hectares was cleared in the northern side of the original Syn Var area
near the Sax River inside the PCA-ZRC for the establishment of coconut seedfarm. Field
planting was done from October 2008 to March 2009 consisting of 1,921 progeny
seedlings produced from CHP (702 seedlings) and AP (1,219 seedlings) covering an
effective area of 12 hectares.

The vegetative data of the field planted seedlings i.e. girth size, plant height and number
of leaves produced, of the Syn1 breeding populations are likewise gathered and recorded
which form part of another report. Standard cultural management procedures for
coconut plantation are followed. Rubber trees are planted around the perimeter of the
seedfarm to serve as natural barriers.

Application of SSR Marker Technology

Four coconut SSR primers, CNZ 18, CNZ 21, CNZ 51 and CN2A4 (figure 3) were utilized
in the assessment of allelic diversity and/or molecular profiles, and levels of
heterozygosity of the three generations of breeding populations. Results (table 4 and
figures 4 and 5) point toward the genetic improvement of the advance breeding
populations as indicated by reduced levels of homozygosity, higher percentages of
heterozygosity, as well as high and sustained levels of genetic diversity.
Genetic diversity values of the breeding populations are very high (0.92) when all the
four microsatellite markers are employed. Comparable levels of genetic diversity were
likewise obtained when DNA markers are utilized singly. These levels were sustained
in the advance breeding stages basically due the diverse tall coconut populations used as
parent materials and the efficient breeding schemes employed.
DNA markers CNZ 51 and CNZ 18 detected six and three alleles, respectively. All alleles
detected are in heterozygous state from the parents up to the advance breeding lines. In
both makers, the evenness in the distribution of alleles is more pronounced in the
advance breeding generations. Similarly, DNA markers CNZ 21 and CN2A4 found 3 and

4 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

4 alleles, respectively. Unlike markers CNZ 51 and CNZ 18, the detected alleles this time
are in homozygous and heterozygous states. At the parental stage, levels of homozygote
alleles are higher (with 85% for marker CNZ 21 and 83% for marker CN2A4) than the
advanced breeding lines (Syn0 and Syn1). Homozygosity levels went down from 85%
(parentals) to 45% (Syn0), then to 40% (Syn1) for marker CNZ 21. Conversely, their
heterozygosity levels increased from 15% (parentals) to 60% (Syn1). For DNA marker
CN2A4, there was an abrupt decrease of homozygosity level from 83% to 5% from
parents to Syn0 then homozygote alleles level-off to 19% at Syn1. At this breeding
generation, heterozygosity level is 81%. Allelic richness is very visible while allelic
evenness is more evident in the advance breeding stages.
The genetic improvement of the advance breeding populations is quite impressive as
shown by the similarity matrices of the parentals, and the advance breeding lines (figure
6). The Jaccard Distance and PCA Matrices indicated more groupings in the advance
breeding generations compared to the parentals indicating greater diversity or genetic
variation in the breeding lines developed.
Allelic diversity analysis and molecular profiling require a certain minimum number of
markers. The ideal number of markers for analysis should be at least two for each
chromosome of the crop being studied, i.e. at least 32 markers for coconut (n = 16). The
number of test materials should also be increased to an optimum level for higher
confidence level in the results (Carcallas, 2001).
The abovementioned concerns could still be well addressed by the researchers since more
polymorphic and discriminant SSR markers are available for use at the PCA-ZRC
Molecular Genetics Laboratory. Likewise, the test palms of the parental and advance
breeding lines are available as living collections, hence could easily be sampled for
broader molecular profiling and genotype analyses.
The current results generated from the four SSR markers however, provided clear and
positive indications that a population of palms with a high degree of balanced
heterozygosity as suggested by Banzon and Velasco (1982) could be achieved. Moreover,
development of a breeding scheme that would allow these populations to mate at random
and to maintain high degree of heterozygosity and heterosis from generation to
generation is possible. This breeding scheme is considered by many coconut breeders
impossible to do due to the perennial nature of coconut. The PCA developed synthetic
variety breeding scheme is a very cost-effective means of plant propagation for coconut
since it would ensure the deployment and use of superior planting materials with durable
stability and yield based on the yield performance of Syn0 (Rivera et al 2008), and the
indicative heterozygosity and genetic diversity of the Syn1 breeding lines as shown by
the current data from the application SSR marker technology.
The use of SSR markers in evaluating the breeding value of the genetic materials at
seedling stage augurs well in the current efforts to accelerate the development of the PCA
Synthetic Variety. While the development of the coconut synthetic variety was originally
conceived to be totally dependent on the coconut breeder’s unique instinct on individual

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 5

 palm selection, the SSR marker technology could very well facilitate the efficient genetic
assessment of the breeder’s breeding populations. This robust technology complements
well with the classical breeding methods being used in coconut varietal development
program of PCA.

CONCLUSION & RECOMMENDATION

To accelerate the development of the PCA Synthetic Variety using the classical breeding
methods, SSR marker technology was applied in assessing the allelic diversity,
genetic/molecular profile, and levels of heterozygosity of breeding lines in relation to
their parental populations. In particular, the SSR marker technology was applied in the
genetic assessment of the 2nd generation (Syn1) breeding lines of PCA Syn Var produced
using classical breeding methods from high yielding t x t F1 base populations (Syn0). The
bottom line is to establish a coconut seedfarm comprising of 2nd generation (Syn1)
superior breeding lines of PCA Synthetic Variety coconut variety.

Using the classical breeding methods, the 2nd generation (Syn1) of breeding lines of the
PCA coconut synthetic variety from superior/high yielding lines of t x t F1 base
populations (Syn0) was bred and/or developed. These breeding materials were
genetically assessed using four SSR markers and were found to possess superior genetic
values based on their levels of heterozygosity, genetic diversity, allelic richness, evenness
of allelic distribution, and sustained genetic diversity. A coconut seedfarm consisting of
1,921 double crosses produced from both controlled hand pollination (702 seedlings) and
assisted pollination (1,219 seedlings) covering an effective area of 12 hectares was
established at the PCA-Zamboanga Research Center. This coconut seedfarm is expected
to produce high quality seednuts of breeding populations that could be instrumental in
the establishment of coconut seedfarms in strategic coconut growing provinces of the
country.

While the Syn Var project was originally conceived to be totally dependent on the coconut
breeder’s unique instinct for individual palm selection, the application of the application
of DNA molecular marker technology like SSR provides for fast and efficient assessment
of breeder’s breeding populations as well as generates information on the level of genetic
diversity of existing stands of coconut in farmer’s fields. When this robust technology is
fully operationalized, the breeders will have the opportunity to quickly frame up an
effective way of mass-producing the seeds for eventual multiplication of the relevant
genotypes for coconut growing communities. This unique breeding research
undertaking for coconut offers greater opportunities for all farmers not only in the
Philippines but to all coconut growing countries in the world.

The purposeful development of a coconut synthetic variety could lead to more

permanent genetic gains over many generations and could achieve greater adaptability
and stability in performance due to a wide genetic base. Likewise, seeds of the coconut

6 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

synthetic variety are produced under natural conditions and constantly exposed to
natural selection. Coconut farmers may use the seeds from synthetic variety directly from
a second crop and expect better yields in the process. Over the years, establishment of
coconut seedfarms could sustain immense commercial hectarage over time and even in
places where areas are too small to support a coconut hybrid industry.

The abovementioned advantages of the synthetic variety approach in coconut breeding

are masked by the fact that a coconut synthetic variety is very difficult breed and even
considered impossible by some coconut breeders due to its perennial nature. The
research efforts done so far by the PCA breeders in Zamboanga have proven that a
COCONUT SYNTHETIC VARIETY could be achieved through the combination of
classical breeding methods and the application of robust molecular marker technology.

To take advantage of this “first of its kind in the world” coconut synthetic variety, the
following are recommended:
1. To develop a robust and working DNA molecular marker protocols, like
SSR or combinations of available DNA molecular markers for coconut, for
genetic assessment to fully complement the classical breeding methods in
the development of the synthetic breeding populations, and to further
accelerate the coconut varietal development in the country;
2. To use the current breeding materials developed from the synthetic variety
approach in the establishment of productive coconut seedfarms in strategic
coconut growing provinces of the country; and
3. To further assess the potential of the coconut synthetic variety for emerging
and high value products and uses.

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 7

 REFERENCES

Akuba, R. H. 2002. Breeding and population genetics studies on coconut (Cocos nucifera
L.) composite variety using morphological and microsatellite markers. UPLB,
College, Laguna, Unpublished Ph D thesis. 230 p.
Ashburner, G. R., W. K. Thompson and G. M. Halloran. 1997. RAPD analysis of South
Pacific coconut palm populations. Crop Sci. 37:992-997.
Baliñgasa, E.N. and G. A. Santos. 1978. Manual for Coconut Hand Pollination Technique.
Breeding and Genetics Division, Philippine Coconut Authority-Agricultural
Research Branch. 45p.
Carcallas, R. J. U. 2001. Evaluation of microsatellite primers to determine effective
number of sample size for genetic diversity analysis of coconut (Cocos nucifera L.)
MS Thesis. University of the Philippines at Los Baños (UPLB). 92pp.
Carpena, A. L., R. R. C. Espino, T. L. Rosario and R. P. Laude. 1993. Genetics at the
population level. SEAMEO Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in
Agriculture (SEAMEO SEARCA)-UPLB. P5-52.
Eberhart, S. A., M. N. Harrison, and F. Ogada. 1967. A comprehensive breeding system.
Zuchter 37:169-74.
Falconer, D. S. and T. F. C. Mackay. 1996. Introduction to quantitative genetics.
Longman Group Ltd. 464p.
Hallauer, A. R. and J.B. Miranda 1981. Quantitative genetics in maize breeding. The
Iowa State Univeristy Press.
Nei, M. 1973. Analysis of gene diversity in subdivided populations. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci.
U.S.A. 70:3321-3323.
Rivera, R., K. J. Edwards, J. H. A. Barker, G. M. Arnold, G. Ayad, T. Hogkin, and A.
Karp. 1999. Isolation and characterization of polymorphic microsatellite in Cocos
nucifera L. Genome 42:668-675.
Rivera, R.L., G.A. Santos, S. M. Rivera, E.E. Emmanuel and G.B. Baylon. 2008.
Development of Synthetic Variety of Coconut: PCA Syn Var 001 I. Status and
Prospects. CORD 24(1):90-112.
Santos, G. A., P. A. Batugal, A. Othman, L. Baudouin, and J. P. Labouisse. 1996.
Manual on Standardized Research Techniques in Coconut Breeding. IPGRI-
COGENT publication. Stanford Press, Singapore 100p.
Santos, G. A., Rivera, R.L., E.E. Emmanuel and S.M. Rivera. 1997. Production of hybrid
coconut seeds through the assisted pollination technique. I. Pollen collection and
processing. Phil. J. Coco. Studies 12(2):48-57
Segovia, S.J.E., N.O. Bituin, R.J.U. Carcallas, C.C. Reaño, R. Rivera, G.A. Santos and
D.M. Hautea. 1999. Genetic diversity assessment in coconut using morphological

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 and microsatellite markers. Abstract Paper. The Philippine J. of Crop Sci., 24(1):
106
Weir, B. S. 1996. Genetic data analysis II. Methods for discrete population genetic data.
Sinauer Associates, Inc. Publ. Sunderland, Massachusetts. 445p.
Wright, S. 1922. Systems of mating. Genetics 6:11-178.

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 9

 APPLICATION OF COCONUT EMBRYO CULTURE TECHNIQUE ON FIELD
COLLECTION AND Ex situ CONSERVATION OF THE TUTUPAEN TALL
VARIETY (TPNT)
R. L. Rivera , E. E. Emmanuel1, C. A. Cueto2, S. M. Rivera1,
1

C. N. Lambanicio1, and M. L. C. George3

Philippine Coconut Authority

Email: [email protected]
Abstract
For the first time in the Philippines, the embryo culture technique (EC) was used to collect a
coconut variety from the field for ex situ conservation. The EC technique proved to be an important
tool for collecting and moving germplasm safely and conveniently. This is especially so in the case
of coconut because of the large size of the seednut, the lack of dormancy, and the fact that pest and
pathogens can be transported with the seednuts. The field collection of Tutupaen Tall embryos
done in Sarangani province demonstrated the robustness of the embryo culture technique, and
facilitated the collection of a new and very distinct coconut accession for ex situ conservation. The
Tutupaen Tall is an important variety distinguished by its very unique thick shell (0.75 cm or
more). This variety became the 263rd accession in the coconut field gene bank of PCA in
Zamboanga. A total of 411 seednuts were harvested from which 262 true-to-type Tutupaen Tall
endosperm plugs were collected, and transported to PCA-ZRC. The effectiveness of the protocols
used on collecting, transport, and culture of the embryos for coconut genetic conservation is
presented.

Keywords – Embryo culture technique; Tutupaen Tall variety; coconut genetic resources; ex
situ conservation.

Introduction
Coconut, Cocos nucifera L., is a good example of an important crop that provides social and
economic development in more than 85 countries in the world. Its global scope as well
as major concerns like genetic erosion, and the fact that genetic resources are not
renewable, provide greater emphasis on the importance of coconut conservation and
evaluation. But due to its recalcitrant nature, coconut is difficult to conserve as seeds.
Hence, coconuts are generally conserved in field gene banks (FGBs) where accessions are
conserved as living collections. This system of conservation provides continuous
opportunity for evaluation as well as an easy and ready access of the conserved
germplasm for research and use.

At present, the coconut gene bank of the Philippine Coconut Authority in Zamboanga
remains as an active breeding and genetic reserve and recognized as one of the most

10 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

important collections in the world with emphasis on indigenous accessions. From 41
accessions in the 1980, its coconut collection has reached 262 accessions. Efforts to
increase these figures is important considering the enormous genetic variability that is
still present in the coconut growing areas since only 60% of the country has been explored
since 1970s. However, collecting coconuts over a wide geographic area for ex-situ
conservation is a tremendous task. And the establishment and management of coconut
gene bank require a remarkable number of resources due to its perennial nature. Hence,
tools and techniques that can contribute to a more effective collecting and propagation of
coconuts should be utilized. This study presents the application of coconut embryo
culture technique on field collection, and ex situ conservation of the Tutupaen tall variety
(TPNT).

METHODS AND PROCEDURE

Sampling and Location
The Tutupaen Tall variety (TPNT) was chosen for the collecting mission due to its unique
thick shell and its contribution as a new accession in the germplasm collection at PCA-
ZRC. The TPNT was collected from Sarangani Province and some areas in General
Santos City in Region XII, Mindanao Island. The number of samples collected was
estimated for a hectare of field establishment.
Protocol 1: The PCA-ZRC Embryo Culture (EC) Protocol
Field collecting of embryos
The collection protocol used followed the IPGRI-COGENT Stantech Manual (Santos et al
1996) with the inclusion of the PCA’s EC technique (Rillo 1995).
During field collection, 10-11 months old nuts (color break stage) were harvested. At this
age, the embryos are on the right stage for collection. The harvesting tool used is made
of a fabricated scythe (curved sharp knife with long stem) attached to the end of a special
bamboo pole “Lampaki” variety.
Harvested nuts are hauled to the designated de-husking areas. The husk was removed
off the nut (de-husking) using a pointed but blunt metal, normally the tip of a farmer’s
plow share mounted on a sturdy wooden base. The nut was split open using the blunt
side of a bolo and by striking the prominent longitudinal vein crosswise with sufficient
force. A cylinder of endosperm embedding the embryo is extracted using a large size
cork borer with 2 cm diameter. Endosperm plugs were rinsed with tap water, and in 95%
ethanol to quickly remove the fats, sterilized with 100% commercial bleach for 20
minutes, and washed three (3) times with distilled water. The cylinders were then kept
in sterile bags with moistened cotton, and placed inside the Styrofoam box in between
layers of papers. Ice bags were added to keep the cylinders cold. The box was covered
with packing tapes before transport.

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 11

 Transporting of Collected Embryos
The sealed Styrofoam box containing the collected embryos was transported by air as
checked-in baggage of the collector. Upon arrival at the laboratory, the coconut embryo
culture laboratory procedure was followed.
Germination of Embryos In Vitro

In the laboratory, the cylinders were washed three times with sterile tap water. The
cylinders were then transferred to the laminar flow cabinet for excision and subsequent
culturing of embryos. From here on, aseptic procedures are strictly followed to avoid
contamination. Under aseptic conditions and using scalpels and forceps, the embryos
were excised from the solid endosperms. Scalpels and forceps are regularly sterilized by
dipping in 95% ethanol and flaming them after each excision. After all the embryos have
been excised, they are again disinfected with 10% commercial bleach for 1-2 minutes and
rinsed five (5) times in sterile distilled water. Commercially available distilled drinking
water is used for media, and for all preparations at ZRC in the absence of distilling
apparatus. Embryos were transferred singly into “catsup” bottles containing Y3 liquid
medium, and cultured at 27-30oC with approximately 4,000-5,000 lux at 9-hour
photoperiod. Shoots and roots normally emerge after two weeks. Culling was done on
poorly developed embryos 16 weeks or four months after inoculation. Abnormal or slow
growing embryos and plantlets are likewise discarded.
Growth of Plantlets In Vitro
Using the same Y3 liquid medium but with only 45g of sugar, the diluted freshly
prepared culture medium was added after decanting the old medium. The same media
preparation was used to replace the succeeding culture medium. Plantlets remained in
the laboratory for three to four months. At this age the plantlets have well-developed
shoots, and enough secondary and tertiary roots. The culture vessels are transferred to
screen house for the optional hardening stage followed by acclimatization of seedlings.
Culture in Screen House/Nursery
The well-developed plantlets were taken out by breaking the culture bottles. The
seedlings were washed under tap and dipped in strong fungicide (e.g. Captan, Vitigran
Blue) solution before they were planted in sterile clay pots containing sterile coco peat
and fine river sand at 1:1 ratio. High humidity level is maintained during the first three
weeks by covering the potted seedlings with plastic bags supported by sturdy steel wires.
The seedlings were placed under the three-layered nylon net upper covering inside the
screen house. Watering was done through a small hole at the side of the plastic bag near
the mouth of the pot and then closed after watering. Every other day, the plastic cover is
lifted up a few inches to gradually expose and acclimatize the seedlings to the screen
house condition. Fertilizer of 80 grams 14-14-14 diluted to 16 liters water was applied
once a week. The seedlings remained in the clay pots for two months.
Growth of Plantlets

12 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

The plants were transferred to polyethylene bags measuring 14” x 14” filled with equal
parts of non-sterile soil and sawdust. Seedlings were exposed under the one- layer nylon
net inside the screen house. Watering was done as needed using water hose. Fertilization
was done once a week by applying 120 grams of 14-14-14 fertilizer diluted to 16 liters of
water. After one month, the plants are exposed to full sunlight and are ready for field
planting.
Protocol 2: PCA-ARC EC Protocol
Compared to the Protocol 1, the PCA-ARC protocol (Protocol 2) uses powder detergent
in washing the embryo plugs followed by rinsing in tap water. Soft parts of the
endosperm plugs are removed. Then, still under non-aseptic conditions (outside the
hood), the embryos are excised using a knife and collected in a beaker with water. Injured
and soft embryos are discarded. The good quality embryos (whole and firm) are washed
again with detergent and rinsed with tap water. The clean and selected embryos are then
brought inside the laminar flow for final disinfection.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

The Collecting Missions

Two collecting missions at Sarangani Province, and some areas in General Santos City in
Region XII, Mindanao Island were conducted from November 3 to 7, 2008 (1st Batch), and
December 5 to 8, 2008 (2nd Batch). The target coconut variety during these collecting
missions is the Tutupaen tall. The first collecting mission was conducted by 1 technical
staff and 1 field staff of the Breeding and Genetics Division of PCA-ZRC. The second
collecting activity was spearheaded by a technical officer of PCA-Albay Research Center
(PCA-ARC) with technical support from one PCA-ZRC technical staff. Both collecting
missions were in close coordination with the PCA Regional and Provincial Coconut
Managers in the area to ensure harmonized assistance from their Regional/Provincial
staff on administrative and related matters. The Chairman of the coconut farmers’
Cooperative in Maitum, Sarangani Province provided assistance in identifying the
farmers possessing the target variety, and in locating the palms in the field. The Tutupaen
tall (TPNT) embryos were sourced from 13 and 14 coconut farms during the 1st and 2nd
collecting missions, respectively.

The Collected Coconut Variety

Tutupaen is so-called after a game “tupa” (meaning, to hit, smash or strike), which is a
very popular game among Ilocanos in the province of Pangasinan, and in the other
northern provinces of the Luzon Island, Northern part of the Philippines. Apparently,
when a group of Ilocanos migrated to the Mindanao Island in the Southern part of the
Philippines some brought with them the planting materials of the Tutupaen variety, and
planted them near their houses or in their farms.

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 13

 The “tupa” game1 is played in such a way that husked nuts (without water) of a pair of
players are matched. Once there is a match, the player rolls down his nut on the court,
usually a clean part of the yard or beach, and while the nut is rolling the other player
strikes it with his own nut. This is done alternately until one of the nuts breaks.
Whichever nut stays unbroken, the owner of the nut is proclaimed the winner by a
selected judge.
A Tutupaen palm looks like the typical coconut. It is a late bearing tall, cross-pollinated
and the stem is either with bole or slightly tapering at the base. The petioles and the
young nuts are either lettuce green or orange of various intensities. Mature nuts vary in
size (small, big, ordinary) and shape (round and oblong). Being planted solitary and used
in the game, Tutupaen palms are logically named after their owners. Depending on their
performance, the best palms are noted and nuts are therefore priced higher. A Tutupaen
nut with its unique thick shell can only be confirmed by opening the nut to see the unique
thick shell, i.e. 0.75 cm or more.

The characterization data gathered from the Tutupaen tall coconut variety sourced
palms are as follows:
A. Stem Morphology
1. Girth at 20 cm = 163.7  24.6
2. Girth at 1.5 m = 102.0  7.4
3. Length of 11 leaf scars = 91.5  19.1
4. Palm height = 908.3  164.8
5. Bole category = Low
B. Overall Crown Appearance = Spherical
C. Leaf Morphology
1. Color of petiole = Green
2. Petiole length = 126.5  9.3
3. Petiole thickness = 3.5  0.4
4. Petiole width = 7.9  0.4
5. Rachis length = 374.4  29.8
6. Number of leaflets = 116.2  6.8



14 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

 7. Leaf length (Mean) = 129.2  12.2
8. Leaflet width (Mean) = 5.6  0.5
D. Inflorescence and Flower Morphology
1. Type = Normal
2. Peduncle length = 33.7  2.0
3. Peduncle diameter = 2.9  0.5
4. No. of spikelets w/ female flower = 16.2  6.3
5. No. of spikelets w/o female flower = 19.2  5.9
6. No. of female flower = 17.8  5.9
7. Female flower distribution = 1.1  0.3
8. Length of central axis = 40.4  3.9
9. Length of spikelets = 46.8  4.9
10. Presence of receptive flower = 1.0
Presence of male flower = 1.0
E. Fruit Appearance
1. Fruit set = 20-50
2. Fruit color = Green
3. Fruit shape (Polar) = Ovoid/round
4. Fruit shape (Equatorial) = Angled/round
5. Husked nut shape = Ovoid/round
6. Fruit length = 27.5  3.0
7. Fruit width = 19.6  2.7
8. Nut length = 15.0  1.2
9. Nut width = 13.7  1.2
The Tutupaen Tall (TPNT) is now the 263rd accession at the PCA gene bank in
Zamboanga, the latest tall coconut variety collection. This coconut accession has a great
potential for the extraction of another high value product from coconut shell called
xylose. Xylose, also called wood sugar, is a sugar first isolated from wood. It is a white
crystalline sugar, C5H10O5, used in dyeing and tanning, and in diabetic diets. An
important product of xylose is xylitol, which is produced by hydrogenation, wherein the

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 15

 sugar (an aldehyde) is converted into a primary alcohol. One teaspoon (5 g) of xylitol
contains 9.6 calories, as compared to one teaspoon of sugar, which has 15 calories. Xylitol
has virtually no aftertaste, and is advertised as "safe for diabetics and individuals with
hyperglycemia. This tolerance is attributed to the lower impact of xylitol on a person's
blood sugar, compared to that of regular sugars. It also has a very low glycemic index of
13 (glucose has a GI of 100) (Gare 2003).

Status of the Coconut Embryos Collected and Cultured In Vitro

The November 2008 collecting mission utilized Protocol 1 (the PCA-ZRC protocol) in the
collecting and processing of the Tutupaen tall embryos. A total of 225 Tutupaen seednuts
was harvested. However, only 131 endosperm plugs were collected since the rest of the
nuts were rejected for various reasons. A large number of nuts have already germinated;
majority are either over matured, with sprouts, or spoiled. From the 131 endosperm
plugs, 125 embryos were excised and sown.
Meanwhile, for the collecting mission conducted in December 2008 using Protocol 2 (the
PCA-ARC collecting and processing protocol), a similar number of 131 Tutupaen tall
coconut endosperm plugs were collected from 186 harvested nuts. Like in the 1 st
collecting mission, around 30% of the harvested nuts are already spoiled and/or have
germinated. Only 108 embryos were excised and sown from the 131 endosperm plugs
brought to the PCA Embryo Culture Makapuno Laboratory in Zamboanga. Most of the
extracted embryo plugs have no embryos.
Tutupaen embryos from the 1st Batch have attained 75% germination, 11% did not
germinate, and 14% were contaminated. The 75% germination is within the germination
rates in vitro from ca. 60 to 85% with an expected further loss of 10% during the steps
leading up to successful acclimatization of the seedlings (Adkins 2008). Meanwhile,
embryos from the 2nd Batch reached only 50% germination rate. Cases of contaminated
embryos were quite high at 37%. Meanwhile, 13% of the embryos did not germinate. The
Protocol 1 utilized in collecting and culturing of embryos seems to work better than the
Protocol 2 as shown by the level of contamination (14% vs. 37%). The cases of
contamination during the early stages of culturing (i.e. first two months in culture) may
have contributed to the low germination of embryos from the 2nd Batch of collecting
mission. The described Protocol 2 EC process (excision of embryos under non-aseptic
condition) may have increased the possibility of contamination and consequently,
affected the germination of embryos. However, since such procedure works well at the
PCA EC Makapuno Laboratory in Albay, other factors need to be considered and given
another look. The response of the variety to in vitro culture may also be a determining
factor in its performance considering that the germination rate ranges between 50-75%
only or an average of 64%. This is below the 80% and above germination rate of other
coconut varieties cultured in vitro including coconut embryos from Makapuno palms.

16 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

Status of In Vitro Coconut Plantlets
The Tutupaen coconut embryos sown, and maintained in vitro culture for the two
collecting missions amounted to 233. This figure exceeded the minimum target of 180
embryos per coconut accession. From the 233 embryos, 148 plantlets (more than the
minimum target of 135 plantlets) were raised in the laboratory consisting of 94 and 54
plantlets from the 1st and 2nd batches of collecting missions, respectively.
From these 148 plantlets, however, only 106 seedlings were transferred to the
acclimatization chamber or screen house due high mortality rate in the 2 nd Batch of
collection (30 out of 54 plantlets or 56%). The mortality of plantlets in the 1 st batch was
only 13%, i.e. 12 out of 94 plantlets. As such, only 24 seedlings were produced in the 2nd
batch of collecting mission compared to 82 seedlings from the 1st batch.
Status of Coconut Seedlings
From the 148 plantlets raised in the laboratory and 106 seedlings transferred to the screen
house, only 90 seedlings were produced consisting of 78 seedlings in polybags and 12
seedlings in clay pots. This figure, however, met the target of 90 seedlings for field
establishment. The relatively higher number of rainy days coupled with the increased
volume of rainfall during the growing periods of the seedlings greatly contributed to the
high mortality rate. Greatly affected are the plantlets from the 2nd batch of collecting
activity (56% mortality). The decision to delay the transfer of the plantlets from
laboratory to the screen house helped in reducing the mortality of seedlings to the 13%
level, in particular those coming from the 1st batch of collecting mission.
Using Protocol 1, the 54% success rate in the 1st batch of collecting mission reckoning from
the 125 Tutupaen coconut embryos sown wherein 68 seedlings are produced could be
considered a very great achievement. To fully appreciate such achievement, when based
on the 94 plantlets raised, the success rate was registered at 72%. This is within the upper
limit of the 50-85% success rates recorded in routine collecting activities using coconut
seednuts instead of embryos.

The relatively high contamination rates could be attributed to the inherent early
germinating trait of the Tutupaen tall variety as well as the expected non-uniformity in
the age of the harvested nuts which had affected the physical conditions of the embryos.
These factors could easily be addressed in future collecting explorations.
In contrast, the 2nd Batch collecting mission achieved only 20% success rate or only 22
seedlings out of the 108 Tutupaen tall coconut embryos sown. Such performance is
considered below the desired target, achieving only 41% success rate, reckoning on the
22 seedlings produced out of the 54 plantlets raised in the laboratory.

Status of Field Establishment of Coconut Seedlings

The area for the field establishment of the Tutupaen seedlings has been identified, and
clearing operations are ongoing. Perimeter fence is also being established using 4-5 layers

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 17

 of barbed wires to protect the seedlings and discourage the entry of stray animals. The
field clearing operations have been suspended several times due to the inclement weather
prevailing in the Zamboanga Peninsula. Great consideration is given to the vulnerability
of the seedlings to very wet weather condition, if field planting is pursued. The 90
seedlings met the target for the field establishment of the Tutupaen tall coconut variety.

CONCLUSION & RECOMMENDATION

The Tutupaen Tall (TPNT) collected successfully became the 263rd accession in the PCA-
ZRC coconut gene bank. This important and distinct coconut accession fills the gap for a
coconut germplasm with inherent thick shell. Aside from its great potential for the
activated carbon product, the coconut shell of this coconut accession has a great potential
for the extraction of another high value product called xylose. A Korean Company is
establishing a processing plant in Davao to produce xylose from coconut shell.
The TPNT embryo collecting activities demonstrated the usefulness of the embryo
culture technique in collecting, and in the safe movement of coconut germplasm.
Protocol 1, the PCA-ZRC EC protocol, utilized in collecting and culturing of embryos
worked better than Protocol 2, the PCA-ARC protocol, as shown by the lower
contamination rate; lower mortality rates from embryo to plantlets, and to seedlings
stages; and higher success rate in producing coconut seedlings.
In general, the EC technique effectively produced 90 seedlings which met the required
number of seedlings for field establishment.
The experiences and data generated from the collecting missions for TPNT using coconut
embryos provided very concrete and good benchmark information as inputs during the
workshop of Coconut Gene Bank Managers and Tissue Culture experts from coconut
growing countries. The generated data and information reinforced several Workshop
recommendations particularly on the international recommended standard protocol for
in vitro culture of coconut embryos, to wit:
Collecting
Age of nuts 10-11 months
Extraction/disinfection Commercial bleach 100% concentration,
Albumen plugs : 20 min;
Commercial bleach 10% concentration,
Naked embryos : 5 min

Germination

18 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

 Medium Y3 (1976)/or modified
Liquid/solid
Vessel Test tubes bottles
Culture conditions 26-28°C ; Dark/light
Subcultures 2-3 /1-1.5 months

Acclimatization
Hardening in vitro plantlets 1 week in greenhouse or laboratory
Fungicide treatment Yes
Benlate
Carbendazin
Substrate Coir dust, soil and sand
Recipients Pots, small polybags
Environmental conditions Shade, 3-4 months
Fertilization Yes
Watering Yes
Duration 5-9 months
Transfer to larger polybags Yes

The protocol is applicable to tall and dwarf coconut varieties, without any visible
genotypic effect based on available data. The average success rate of the protocol is 34%;
i.e. from 100 embryos inoculated in vitro, an average of 34 seedlings can be transferred to
the field. The Workshop further recommended that this percentage be used as a
benchmark for the application of the protocol. One accession of a Tall variety should be
represented in the field by a minimum number of 90 palms. A minimum of 300 embryos
of any tall coconut variety should thus be inoculated in vitro to obtain this minimum
number of palms in the field.
The EC technique can be an effective, safe ,and convenient tool for collecting and moving
coconut germplasm. A fully developed and working EC protocol could provide
tremendous impact for coconut collecting explorations in remote places, and isolated
islands, and more importantly, in the safe international exchange of important coconut
germplasm. The EC protocol was demonstrated as important tool and very good option

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 19

 to the usual method of collecting the “bulky” coconut seednuts for conservation
purposes.
The experiences and data gathered during the embryo collecting missions provided vital
inputs during the workshop such that excellent recommendations on the EC protocol
were established. Hence, as an offshoot of this study, Bioversity International through
the International Coconut Genetic Resources Network (COGENT) is currently employing
embryo culture protocol for an international exchange of coconut germplasm for safety
duplication amongst four coconut growing countries namely, Cote d’ Ivoire, Papua New
Guinea, Sri Lanka and the Philippines. Initial collecting missions were done in February
and July 2010 by PCA-ZRC technical officer getting two dwarf and two tall coconut
accessions from Ivory Coast. The tall coconut accessions possess drought tolerant traits.
The EC technique used in the study ushered in a new era of a more efficient and safe
international exchange of coconut germplasm. Other crops could explore and exploit the
use of this EC technique for collecting and germplasm exchange programs.

20 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

REFERENCES

Adkins, S.W, E.P. Rillo, O. Orense. 2008. Development of an embryo culture manual and
an embryo transplantation technique for coconut germplasm movement and
seedling production of elite coconut types.
Alfiler, A.R.R. 1998. Embryo Culture Activities at the Philippine Coconut Authority-
Zamboanga Research Center (PCA-ZRC). In: Coconut Embryo In Vitro Culture.
Papers presented at a Workshop on Embryo Culture, 27-31 October 1997, Banao,
Guinobatan, Albay, Philippines. IPGRI-APO, Serdang, Malaysia. P.A. Batugal
and F. Engelmann, editors. 164p, 1998.
Gare, F. 2003. The Sweet Miracle of Xylitol. Basic Health Publications, Inc.. ISBN 1-59120-
038-5.
Global Conservation Strategy for Cocos nucifera. A framework for promoting the
effective conservation and use of coconut genetic resources developed in
consultation with COGENT members and partners, August 2007.
Rillo EP and Paloma MBF. 1992. Storage and transport of zygotic embryos of Cocos
nucifera L. for in vitro culture. Plant Genetic Resources Newsletter 86:1-4.
Rillo, E.P., 1995. Embryo Culture of Coconut: A Laboratory Manual. Philippine-German
Coconut Tissue Culture Project, Philippine Coconut Authority, Albay Research
Center, Banao, Guinobatan, Albay, Philippines, 42 pp.
Rillo, E.P., 1997. PCA’s Embryo Culture Technique in the Mass Production of Makapuno
Coconuts. In: Coconut Embryo In Vitro Culture. Papers presented at a Workshop
on Embryo Culture, 27-31 October 1997, Banao, Guinobatan, Albay, Philippines.
IPGRI-APO, Serdang, Malaysia. P.A. Batugal and F. Engelmann, editors. 164p,
1998.
Santos, G.A., P.A. Batugal, A. Othman, L. Baudouin, and J.P. Labouisse. 1996. Manual
on standardized research techniques in coconut breeding. IPGRI-COGENT,
Singapore. 46p.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The authors wish to express their gratitude to Bioversity International (Bioversity) for
funding the research, Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) Management (OFAD, RDB,
PCA-ZRC) for the administrative and technical support, PCA Regional Office (Region
12), PCA Provincial Office of Sarangani and, Fleischer Estate Integrated Multipurpose
Cooperative (FEIMCO) for the great help during the collecting activity.


PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 21

 THE COCONUT FARMERS AND INDUSTRY
DEVELOPMENT PLAN (CFIDP) PROGRAM MILESTONES (2022 – 2023): AN
IMPACT ANALYSIS

Dexter R. Buted1, Ian D. Evangelista,2 Kreisha Ainna Marielle Roque3, E.R. Chua4
Philippine Coconut Authority1,2,3 EduHeart Book Publishing4

Dr. Dexter R. Buted

[email protected]

Abstract

The Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) is a crucial program designed to
rejuvenate the coconut industry. However, there is a lack of empirical evaluations of its progress
since the program implementation started only in 2022. This research study employed a
quantitative approach to examine the various effects of CFIDP program milestones on coconut
growers and the wider industry context. Utilizing a rigorous technique that encompasses the
gathering of survey data and subsequent statistical analysis, this study examined the
socioeconomic aspects, improvements in agricultural productivity, and market dynamics that are
impacted by interventions implemented by the CFIDP. By employing a stratified sample method
in important coconut-growing areas, the study encompassed a wide range of viewpoints and
guarantees a thorough understanding of the program's effectiveness. This research provided
significant insights for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and development practitioners who
aim to promote sustainable growth and resilience in the coconut sector by examining the
quantitative effects of CFIDP program milestones.

Keywords: CFIDP, socioeconomic aspects, coconut farmers, industry development, livelihood.

INTRODUCTION
Former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte signed Republic Act No. 11524, the Coconut
Farmers and Industry Trust Fund (CFITF) Act, on February 26, 2021, that aims to
consolidate benefits for impoverished coconut farmers, bolstering their income, lifting
them from poverty, and promoting social equality. The Philippine Coconut Authority
(PCA) is tasked to develop the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan
(CFIDP), aimed at steering the progress and revitalization of the coconut industry across
a span of 50 years. This plan prioritizes enhancing productivity, reducing poverty, and
promoting modernization within the sector.
The coconut business plays a vital role in the economies of numerous tropical regions
globally, supporting the livelihoods of millions of people and making substantial
contributions to national economies. In recent times, there has been a growing impetus

22 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

in the adoption of focused development initiatives that seek to improve coconut farming
techniques and promote sustainability within the business. An initiative that has gained
significant attention from policymakers and stakeholders is the Coconut Farmers and
sector Development Plan (CFIDP) Program. This program aims to tackle the difficulties
encountered by coconut farmers and promote the expansion of the sector.
The CFIDP Programs, which were implemented from 2022 to 2023, aims to rejuvenate
and update the coconut industry by achieving a set of strategic goals. The milestones in
question involve a range of development factors, such as agricultural methods,
enhancement of the value chain, access to markets, and socio-economic empowerment.
The program seeks to optimize the effectiveness of interventions by clearly defining
objectives and timetables. This will help streamline interventions, allocate resources
efficiently, and evaluate progress effectively, ultimately optimizing their impact on the
ground.
A thorough understanding of the ramifications associated with the milestones of the
CFIDP Program holds significant importance for policymakers, researchers, and
practitioners alike. Through the assessment of the results and consequences of these
significant achievements, those with a vested interest can acquire vital knowledge
regarding the efficacy of certain initiatives and pinpoint opportunities for additional
enhancements. In addition, the evaluation of the program's effects promotes the use of
empirical data in decision-making, allowing policymakers to enhance policies, allocate
resources wisely, and customize interventions to effectively tackle growing difficulties
and capitalize on opportunities in the coconut industry.
In light of this context, the objective of this research project is to investigate the effects of
the CFIDP Program milestones that were put into effect between 2022 and 2023. The
study seeks to evaluate the program's efficacy in attaining its stated goals and examine
its impact on coconut farmers, industry stakeholders, and wider socio-economic progress
through the utilization of a comprehensive research framework that incorporates both
quantitative and qualitative methodologies. By employing empirical analysis and
considering the viewpoints of stakeholders, this research aims to produce practical
insights that can guide the creation of policies, program design, and strategic decision-
making in relation to the growth of the coconut industry.
The CFIDP was developed through extensive consultation with fourteen other
implementing agencies (IAs) as mandated by the law. It is designed in accordance with
the primary objectives of the law, namely: (a) increased productivity and income of
coconut farmers; (b) poverty alleviation, education, and social equity; and (c)
rehabilitation and modernization of the coconut industry towards farm productivity. The
CFIDP highlights six (6) National Development Programs which includes: (1) social
protection, (2) coconut farmers’ organization and development, (3) coconut hybridization
program, (4) community-based enterprise development, (5) shared facilities program,
and (6) support services.

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 23

 Filipino Coconut Farmers
Coconut farming is a fundamental aspect of the agricultural industry in the Philippines,
supporting the livelihoods of millions of farmers. Gaining insight into the socio-economic
obstacles and prospects encountered by these farmers is essential for achieving
sustainable development and formulating effective policies. Numerous scholarly
investigations have explored diverse facets of coconut cultivation in the Philippines,
encompassing its historical import as well as present-day concerns pertaining to
productivity, sustainability, and socio-economic welfare.
Reyes and Garcia (2019) conducted a significant study that investigates the historical
progression of coconut cultivation in the Philippines, encompassing its origins from the
pre-colonial era to the contemporary period. This research offers significant contributions
to the understanding of the cultural, economic, and environmental aspects of coconut
production, hence illuminating its enduring importance within Filipino society.
The study conducted by Santos et al. (2020) provides a thorough examination of the
various elements that impact the productivity and profitability of coconuts, with a
particular focus on modern difficulties. The researchers employ a blend of quantitative
surveys and qualitative interviews to uncover crucial factors, including land tenure
regimes, credit accessibility, market dynamics, and technology advancements. The
research highlights the intricate interaction between socio-economic variables that
influence the economic prospects of coconut growers in the Philippines within the context
of the contemporary globalized economy.
Furthermore, Lim et al. (2021) did a study that specifically examines the socio-economic
consequences of climate change on coconut farming communities in the Philippines. The
study utilizes a combination of qualitative and quantitative methodologies, such as
household surveys and participatory workshops, to emphasize the susceptibility of
smallholder farmers to severe weather occurrences, changing precipitation patterns, and
the rise in sea levels. The results emphasize the pressing necessity for the implementation
of adaptation methods and policy interventions aimed at bolstering the resilience of
coconut producers in the Philippines when confronted with climate-related hazards.
Moreover, the scholarly investigation conducted by Cruz and Dela Cruz (2022) delves
into the gender aspects of coconut cultivation in the Philippines, analyzing the
involvement and impact of women in agricultural activities, decision-making processes,
and value chains. From a feminist perspective, this study examines the imbalanced power
dynamics, cultural conventions, and institutional obstacles that influence women's
encounters in the coconut industry. The study supports the implementation of policies
and programs that are sensitive to gender and aim to empower women farmers and
advance gender equality in rural development projects.
To summarize, the literature on Filipino coconut producers cover a wide range of
subjects, such as historical viewpoints, difficulties in productivity, adaptation to climate
change, and gender dynamics. The studies presented in this collection together contribute

24 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

to a comprehensive comprehension of the intricate aspects related to coconut farming in
the Philippines. They provide essential perspectives for policy makers, researchers, and
development practitioners who are dedicated to improving the welfare of coconut
farming communities.
Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan
Academic literature has thoroughly analyzed the challenges and opportunities faced by
coconut growers and the wider coconut industry. Smith (2018) conducted an in-depth
analysis of the socio-economic obstacles encountered by coconut producers in developing
nations. The study shed light on concerns such as diminished production, restricted
market accessibility, and susceptibility to price volatility.
Furthermore, the study conducted by Jones and Patel (2020) delved into the influence of
governmental policies on the developmental trajectory of the coconut industry. The
authors underscored the significance of strategic planning and infrastructure investment
in defining this trajectory.
In addition, Nguyen et al. (2019) performed a comparative examination of coconut
farming methods in various locations, providing insights into the differences in
agricultural techniques and their effects on crop productivity and environmental
sustainability. This collection of papers highlights the complex and diverse range of
issues faced by coconut producers, emphasizing the necessity of comprehensive
development strategies that encompass both agricultural and socio-economic aspects.
The Influence of Coconut Farmers and the Strategies for Industry Development
The significance of the coconut sector in agricultural economies throughout many
tropical regions has been well acknowledged (Birnbaum & Thomas, 2020). Various
countries have tried government initiatives to improve the productivity and
sustainability of coconut cultivation, with varying degrees of success (Jain & Reddy,
2019). The CFIDP program, which was initiated in 2022, signifies a noteworthy
achievement in this context, as its primary goals revolve around enhancing the
capabilities of coconut farmers and promoting the growth of the industry (Department
of Agriculture, 2022).
Prior studies have emphasized the difficulties encountered by coconut farmers, which
encompass issues such as diminished productivity and fluctuations in the market
(Fernando et al., 2018). The Coconut Revitalization initiative in the Philippines, which
shares similarities with the CFIDP initiative, has demonstrated encouraging outcomes in
terms of enhancing crop productivity and generating income (Lana & Reyes, 2017).
Nevertheless, the efficacy of these initiatives frequently relies on variables such as the
allocation of resources, participation of stakeholders, and coherence of policies (Dahal &
Khadka, 2021).
In addition, it is important to note that coconut farming has a broader socio-economic
influence that goes beyond its agricultural productivity. This influence extends to other

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 25

 elements, including rural livelihoods and environmental sustainability (Chowdhury et
al., 2020). According to Obisesan et al. (2019), scholarly investigations suggest that the
implementation of comprehensive strategies in the development of the coconut sector,
which encompass value addition and market connections, is crucial in order to optimize
the advantages obtained by smallholder farmers.
The milestones of the CFIDP program in 2022-2023 offer a distinct chance to evaluate the
concrete results of government assistance in the coconut industry. Researchers can
provide insights into the effectiveness of the program and highlight areas for
improvement by analyzing variables such as yield improvement, income levels, and
adoption of sustainable practices (Gonzalez & Cruz, 2021).
Ultimately, the CFIDP initiative signifies a substantial effort to improve the durability
and competitiveness of the coconut industry. Researchers can provide significant
insights to guide policy decisions and promote the sustainable development of coconut
farming communities by doing thorough assessment and analysis (Smith et al., 2023).
The cultivation of coconuts holds considerable importance within the agricultural sectors
of several nations, serving as a crucial source of sustenance for a substantial population.
In recent times, a range of development initiatives, including the Coconut Farmers and
Industry Development Plan (CFIDP), have been introduced with the aim of facilitating
the expansion and long-term viability of coconut farming communities. The objective of
this essay is to examine the effects of these programs on coconut farmers and the
development of the sector through the synthesis of results from pertinent literature.
In the study of Smith and Johnson (2018) examine the efficacy of agricultural
development initiatives, with a specific emphasis on communities engaged in coconut
cultivation. They emphasize the beneficial impacts of these programs on improving the
quality of life in these areas, suggesting possible similarities with the goals of the CFIDP.
Brown and White (2020) provide valuable perspectives on the evaluation of the
socioeconomic consequences of government intervention initiatives in the agricultural
sector. Their research offers a structure for assessing the efficacy of programs such as the
CFIDP in enhancing the socioeconomic circumstances of coconut farmers and promoting
the progress of the sector.
The constraints and prospects for sustainable development in coconut farming are
examined by Garcia and Martinez (2019). The research highlights the significance of
taking into account economic, environmental, and social sustainability factors when
assessing the enduring effects of the CFIDP.
In their study, Lee and Tan (2021) investigate the impact of cooperative development on
the empowerment of smallholder farmers, specifically focusing on cooperatives involved
in coconut cultivation. The results of their study indicate that the implementation of
collaborative initiatives can enhance the efficacy of development programs, providing
valuable insights that can be applied to optimize the impact of the CFIDP.

26 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

The study conducted by Patel and Kumar (2017) examines the impact of government
policies and initiatives on the improvement of resilience within the agricultural sector.
The significance of resilience-building activities is emphasized in their study, as they are
in line with the goals of programs such as the CFIDP in enhancing the resilience of
coconut farming communities.
In summary, the literature examined offers a thorough understanding of the effects of
development initiatives, such as the CFIDP, on communities engaged in coconut
cultivation. These studies emphasize the beneficial impacts of these programs in
improving lives, fostering sustainability, empowering farmers through cooperative
activities, and fostering resilience within the business. This essay enhances
comprehension of the multiple effects of development initiatives on coconut farmers and
industry development by amalgamating results from many perspectives.
Theoretical Framework
The examination of the impact of the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan
(CFIDP) Program Milestones is based on the theoretical framework that incorporates
various key theoretical views. This framework offers a complete perspective for
analyzing the diverse consequences of this project. The present framework incorporates
components derived from agricultural economics perspective, sustainable development
theory, and policy analysis framework in order to provide a comprehensive
understanding of the complex dynamics inherent in the coconut farming industry.
From an agricultural economics standpoint, the primary objective of the CFIDP Program
is to improve the efficiency, financial viability, and long-term viability of coconut farming
methods. This project may be analyzed from an agricultural economics perspective by
considering resource allocation, production efficiency, and market dynamics. This
perspective facilitates the evaluation of the economic consequences of CFIDP milestones
on the livelihoods of coconut farmers and the overall development of the sector by
considering aspects such as input costs, yield variability, and market demand (University
of Saskatchewan, n.d.).
The CFIDP Program can be evaluated through the lens of sustainable development
theory, which offers a comprehensive framework that considers the environmental,
social, and economic aspects. This perspective places significant emphasis on the
necessity of achieving a harmonious equilibrium between economic growth,
environmental stewardship, and social equality. This theory provides valuable insights
into the long-term sustainability of CFIDP initiatives and their impact on the well-being
of coconut farming communities, using indicators such as land use practices, biodiversity
conservation, and community empowerment (Cambridge University Press, 2022).
The utilization of a policy analysis framework allows for a comprehensive examination
of the CFIDP Program, providing insights into the institutional arrangements,
governance structures, and policy instruments that influence its implementation and
resulting consequences. This viewpoint takes into account various elements, including

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 27

 the alignment of policies, involvement of stakeholders, and the ability of institutions. It
aims to clarify the factors that either facilitate or limit the success of CFIDP milestones in
attaining their desired goals. This paradigm facilitates the identification of possibilities to
enhance the impact and scalability of CFIDP initiatives by evaluating policy coherence
and alignment with broader development goals.
The interconnection and reciprocal reinforcement of these theoretical viewpoints provide
a comprehensive analytical framework for assessing the impact of CFIDP Program
milestones. This framework offers a comprehensive basis for comprehending the intricate
interplay among economic, environmental, and social elements within the coconut
farming industry, by including perspectives from agricultural economics, sustainable
development theory, and policy analysis. This study aims to provide light on the
transformative capacity of the CFIDP Program in promoting sustainable development
and inclusive growth in coconut farming communities, employing a multi-dimensional
analysis.
Conceptual Framework

The CFIDP Conceptual Framework, designed for its overall coordination and monitoring
system, outlines the eight program components of the CFIDP, which will be executed by
14 partner agencies. The immediate outputs of the Plan's five-year investment program
are depicted in the output column, while the CFIDP identifies five medium-term
outcomes to be achieved through the utilization of these outputs by coconut farmers and
the industry. These outcomes include improvements in coconut productivity within
ecological limits, intensified rehabilitation and modernization of the coconut industry,
strengthened support for coconut processing and value-adding activities, expanded

28 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

market access for coconut farmer organizations and MSMEs, and increased access to
credit, crop insurance, health, education, and social services for farmers.
Program strategies such as hybrid coconut development, intercropping, integrated
farming systems, research and development, adoption of modern technologies, shared
processing facilities, and capacity building through training will contribute to achieving
these outcomes. Infrastructure development, formal group organization, consolidation,
clustering of farmers and MSMEs, and marketing and promotion efforts will also enhance
market access. Social protection sub-components including health and medical
insurance, crop insurance, and scholarships, along with credit programs, are expected to
improve access to essential services for farmers.
Long-term impacts of the CFIDP include sustainable increase in farmers' income, access
to social services, and increase in the global competitiveness of the Philippine coconut
industry, aligning with the Philippine Development Plan's overarching goal of "Matatag,
Maginhawa at Panatag na Buhay."
The CFIDP framework aligns with the recommendations outlined in the Coconut
Farmers and Industry Roadmap, which serves as a holistic development plan for the
coconut subsector. Integration and complementation of programs funded by the Coco
Levy Fund, General Appropriations Act (GAA), other funding sources, and public-
private partnerships are essential for realizing the long-term goals of the CFIDP.
Development of the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan 2021 – 2022

DATE ACTIVITIES

ENACTMENT OF THE LAW – FORMER

PRESIDENT ROA DUTERTE SIGNED THE
26 FEB 2021
COCONUT FARMERS AND INDUSTRY TRUST
FUND ACT (RA 11524)

REQUEST OF PHP5M FUNDING FOR THE

CRAFTING OF THE COCONUT FARMERS AND
15 MAR 2021
INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT PLAN (CFIDP) FROM
THE BTr, AS STIPULATED IN THE RA 11524

RECOMMENDATION OF THE BOARD TO

COMMISSION THE DEVELOPMENT ACADEMY
29 MAR 2021
OF THE PHILIPPINES (DAP) TO CRAFT THE
CFIDP

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 29

 APPROVAL OF THE PCA BOARD OF THE MOA
24 MAY 2021
WITH DAP

22 JUNE 2021 MOA SIGNING OF PCA AND DAP

INITIATION OF THE CRAFTING OF THE

REGIONAL CFIDP WITH THE PCA REGIONAL
23 JUNE 2021
CORE PLANNERS IN CONSULTATION WITH THE
STAKEHOLDERS

INTEGRATION OF THE RCFIDPs ENDORSED BY

THE REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT COUNCILS
24 JULY 2021
AND HARMONIZATION WITH THE PARTNER
AGENCIES’ IMPLEMENTATION PLAN

PRESENTATION OF THE CFIDP TO THE VETTING

03 SEPT 2021 AGENCIES IDENTIFIED IN THE LAW: NEDA,
DOF, DBM, DTI

PRESENTATION OF THE CFIDP’S INDICATIVE

06 SEPT 2021 TARGET AND BUDGET ALLOCATION TO THE
TRUST FUND MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

PRESENTATION OF THE CFIDP TO THE PCA

23 SEPT 2021
BOARD

INTEGRATION OF THE INPUTS AND

OCT – JAN 2022 RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE VETTING
AGENCIES ON THE CFIDP

RELEASE OF THE COA-BTr-DBM JMC –

GUIDELINES ON THE RELEASE, DISBURSEMENT,
28 JAN 2022 MONITORING, ACCOUNTING AND REPORTING
OF THE COCO LEVY FUNDS AUTHORIZED BY RA
11524

PRESENTATION OF THE FINAL CFIDP TO THE

08 FEB 2022
PCA BOARD

30 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

 APPROVAL OF THE PCA BOARD AND
03 MARCH 2022 ENDORSEMENT TO THE OFFICE OF THE
PRESIDENT OF THE CFIDP

HARMONIZATION AND COORDINATION

30 MAY – 03 JUNE 2022
WORKSHOP WITH ALL THE CFITF IAs

APPROVAL OF THE CFIDP THROUGH

02 JUNE 2022
EXECUTIVE ORDER 172

SIGNING OF MOAs AND DSAs OF THE CFITF IAs

JULY 2022 – JAN 2023
WITH PCA

RELEASE OF FUND ALLOCATION TO THE CFITF

SEPT – NOV 2022
IMPLEMENTING AGENCIES

IMPLEMENTATION OF THE CFITF PROGRAMS IN

JULY – DEC 2022
FY 2022

METHODOLOGY AND RESEARCH DESIGN

Methodology
The aim of this study was to examine the impact of the Coconut Farmers and Industry
Development Plan (CFIDP) Program Milestones on the coconut industry and the well-
being of coconut farmers. It aimed to gather empirical data on the impact of the CFIDP
in attaining its goals and improving the socio-economic circumstances of coconut
producers.
Research Design
This study utilized a quantitative research design, specifically emphasizing the gathering
and examination of numerical data to objectively assess the impact of CFIDP milestones.
Quantitative methodologies are well-suited for evaluating the magnitude of
transformation and quantifying the results of certain interventions, such as development
initiatives.
Data collection and sample selection
Based on proven indices of socio-economic development, agricultural productivity, and
the specific aims of the CFIDP, a structured questionnaire was developed. The survey
consisted of a combination of closed-ended questions and observation sheets in order to
collect quantifiable data pertaining to different aspects of the program's influence.

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 31

 The collection of primary data was conducted by administering questionnaires to a
specific group of coconut farmers and key informants who are actively involved in the
execution of the CFIDP. Furthermore, the research incorporated secondary data sources,
including government publications, program documents, and statistical databases, in
order to enhance and authenticate the results.
To guarantee adequate representation from diverse regions with various levels of CFIDP
implementation, a stratified random selection technique was utilized. The intended
demographic will encompass coconut producers and anyone with direct involvement in
the CFIDP. The determination of the sample size will be conducted using suitable
statistical methods in order to guarantee sufficient statistical power and the capacity to
generalize the findings.
Data Analysis Methods
The research participants and key factors associated to CFIDP milestones was
summarized using the descriptive statistics, such as frequencies, percentages, means, and
standard deviations.
In order to investigate the associations between CFIDP milestones and different outcome
measures, such as income levels, agricultural production, and socio-economic indicators,
statistical methodologies including correlation analysis, regression analysis, and
hypothesis testing was utilized. In order to ascertain significant predictors of program
impact while accounting for any confounding variables, the study employed multiple
regression analysis.
Research hypotheses and validation
To reinforce the reliability and credibility of the findings, predetermined processes were
implemented. The strategies involve engaging in active interaction with the community
in order to establish a strong connection and credibility, employing diverse data sources
and methodologies to enhance the reliability of the study, conducting member checking
to validate interpretations with participants, and practicing reflexivity to acknowledge
and address any researcher biases.
Study Limitations and ethical considerations
In order to safeguard the rights and anonymity of participants, ethical permission were
sought from the appropriate institutional review board (IRB) prior to commencing data
collection. All participants were required to provide informed consent, and their
involvement in the study were entirely voluntary.
The research may encounter constraints pertaining to the representativeness of the
sample, potential recollection bias, and dependence on self-reported data. Furthermore,
the observed outcomes may be influenced by external factors like as environmental
changes and market dynamics, regardless of the CFIDP milestones.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

32 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

Major Accomplishment for 2022 and 2023
A. Social Protection
A key component within the CFIDP's national initiatives is the Social Protection
program, designed to improve the welfare and resilience of coconut farmers and
their families. This program fosters inclusivity by offering assistance with health
care, crop insurance, scholarships, and training opportunities. By availing
themselves of these initiatives, coconut farmers are better equipped to handle
various risks like illness, disability, unemployment, old age, and natural calamities,
through to the safety nets and insurance mechanisms provided.
Since the CFIDP was approved in June 2022, the implementing agencies
encountered difficulties in fully executing their programs during the initial year,
leading to a low performance rate in their accomplishments. However, they made
significant progress in 2023 through close coordination with the PCA. The average
accomplishment rate of the overall CFIDP Social Protection programs was 39.76%
in 2022, which increased to 71.68% in 2023, marking a 80.28% improvement in
performance. Presented below is the detailed breakdown of program
accomplishments under the CFIDP Social Protection.

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 33

 Table 1. Significant Accomplishments under the CFIDP Social Protection Program, 2022
- 2023

2022 Physical 2023 Physical

Component Accomplishment Accomplishment
Indicator
/ IA
Target Actual % Target Actual %
No. of information
11.76
caravans 0 0 0 68 8
%
conducted
No. of medical
10.29
missions 0 0 0 68 7
%
conducted
No. of coconut
Health and farmers and
Medical dependents 0 0 0 34,000 3,414 9.00%
Program provided with
medical services
No. of coconut
farmers and
dependents
provided with 0 0 0 15,798 0 0.00%
hospitalization
and medical
assistance
No. of CF covered
118.6 123.3
by Crop Insurance 200,000 237,263 200,000 246,732
3% 7%
funded
Crop No. of Coconut
Insurance 100.7 100.7
(PCIC) Farms with crop 200,000 201,471 200,000 201,420
4% 1%
insurance (in has)
Amount of Cover 100.0 100.0
10 10 10 10
(in B, Php) 0% 0%
No. of coconut
Scholarship farmers and/or 83.33
Program 0 0 0.00% 3,545 2,954
(CHED) families provided %
with scholarship

34 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

 No. of CF and
beneficiaries
103.7 110.3
trained by ATI 240 249 3,250 3,585
5% 19%
Training of
Trainers

No. of Participants
131.5
in Farmer-Level 0 0 0 5,717 7,521
6%
Training Trainings
Program No. of CF and
(ATI)
beneficiaries of 120.0
0 0 0 5950 7,140
ATI School on the 0%
Air
No. of CFs
participated in 4,812 112.7
0 4,812 4,065 4,584
Information % 7%
Caravans
No. of FS/LSAs 96.00
0 8 0 125 120
certified %
No. of enrolled 83.00 45.54
9,871 8,161 10,063 9,030
Training scholars % %
(TESDA) 91.00 37.00
No. of graduates 8,884 8,095 10,063 8,494
% %
39.76 71.68
Average Accomplishment Rate
% %
Source: IA Progress Reports 2022 - 2023

In the initial year of executing the Social Protection Program, a total of Php 389.11
million was disbursed. The primary contributor to this disbursement was the PCIC,
allocating Php200 million of the total funds, followed closely by TESDA with
Php164.11 million. On the other hand, ATI only requested Php25.33 million out of
their allocated Php200 million budget, as they commenced operations in the third
quarter of 2022. CHED and PCA did not execute any programs in 2022. PCA was
instructed by oversight committees to develop a new program proposal focusing on
health and medical services for coconut farmers and their families, shifting away
from the initial plan to partner with PhilHealth. Meanwhile, CHED decided to
finalize the implementation guidelines for the Scholarship Program before its public
launch for the 1st semester SY 2023-2024.

In 2023, a notable increase of 15.7% in financial performance was observed

compared to the previous year, with a total disbursement reaching Php730.22

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 35

 million. The PCIC remained the primary contributor, disbursing 100% of its
allocated funds, followed by ATI with 97.72% and TESDA with 83.88%. CHED
successfully initiated the Coconut Farmers Scholarship (CoScho) Program,
achieving a disbursement rate of 57.82%. However, PCA, with the lowest
disbursement rate of 4%, faced challenges in full implementation due to restrictions
in the CFIDP provisions. Consequently, PCA is committed to amending the CFIDP
to facilitate the full operationalization of the Health and Medical Program in 2024.

Table 2. Financial Performance of programs under the CFIDP Social Protection,

2022 – 2023
CFITF ALLOCATI 2022 2023
COMPON % OF 2022 2023
ON/YEAR DISBURSEM DISBURSEM
ENT ALLOC (%) (%)
(2022-2023) ENT ENT
ATION
Health
and
19,959,811.0
Medical 10% 500,000,000 0 0.0% 3.99%
0
Program
(PCA)
Crop
100.0 100.0
Insurance 4% 200,000,000 200,000,000 200,000,000
% %
(PCIC)
Coconut
Scholarsh
147,063,941. 57.82
ip 8% 400,000,000 0 0.0%
37* %*
Program
(CHED)*
Training 24,617,523.9 98.09 195,444,902. 97.72
200,000,000
(ATI)** 3** %** 96 %
8%
Training 164,111,595. 82.06 167,756,317. 83.88
200,000,000
(TESDA) 92 % 48 %
Average Disbursement Rate 388,729,119.85 62.16% 730,224,972.81 91.28%
Note - * CHED did not implement in 2022 and requested only Php 254,353,750 in
2023 for fund release
** ATI requested only Php 25,334,000 in 2022 for fund release

36 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

B. Coconut Farmers Organization and Development
According to the law, the organization and empowerment of coconut farmer
organizations and their cooperatives shall be implemented by the CDA. Hence
various programs, projects, and services shall be rolled out by the Authority to fulfill
this mandate.
In 2022, an average of 50.83% of its performance targets was reached by the
Cooperative Development Authority (CDA). This included provision of training,
financial assistance, and provision of office equipment such as computers and
laptops to coconut farmer organizations/ cooperatives. On the other hand, 46.76%
of planned deliverables in 2023 was fulfilled by the Authority. A significant number
of coconut farmer organizations/ associations were trained and assisted to become
a registered cooperative in 2023.
Table 3. Significant Accomplishments under the CFIDP Coconut Farmers
Organization and Development Program, 2022 – 2023

2022 Physical 2023 Physical

Compon Accomplishment Accomplishment
Indicator
ent / IA
Target Actual % Target Actual %

No. of CFO/Cs 59.13 189.69

482 243 708 1,343
Trained % %

No. CFOs/CFAs
45.86 106.61
assisted to be 266 797 378 403
% %
CFCs

CFs No. of CFCs

Organiz 100.0
provided with 402 320 0 0 0.00%
ation 0%
financial assistance
and
Develop
ment No. of CFCs
(CDA) provided with
100.0
computer / laptop 109 109 0 0 0.00%
0%
for business
operations

No. of processing
facilities 0 0 0.00% 2 0 0.00%
established

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 37

 No. of federation
provided with 0 0 0.00% 1 0 0.00%
seed capital

Average Accomplishment 88.34

49.36%
Rate %

Source: IA Progress Reports 2022 - 2023

Looking at its financial performance, out of the 250M (5%) CFITF allocation in 2022,
52.57% of which was disbursed with a total of 131.43M. While in 2023, it has
disbursed a total of 9.60% or 24.06M. Data presented were based on the submitted
financial reports to the BTr.
Table 4. Financial Performance of the CFIDP Coconut Farmers Organization and
Development Program, 2022 – 2023
CFITF
ALLOCATI 2022 2023
COMPON % OF 2022 2023
ON/YEAR DISBURSEM DISBURSEM
ENT ALLOC (%) (%)
(2022-2023) ENT ENT
ATION
Organizati
on and
Empower
5% 250,000,000 131,434,679.14 52.57% 24,068,149.35 9.60%
ment of
Cooperati
ves (CDA)

C. Coconut Hybridization Program

As stated in the law, as well as in the development plan, Coconut hybridization
program shall be implemented by PCA for operations and DOST-PCAARRD for
research. This program intends to increase palm productivity and the volume of
nuts available to address the supply-demand gap in the country to ensure the
sustainable growth of the industry.
Birth pains encountered by the implementing agencies during the year 2022 of
implementation resulted in a low performance rate of only 27.90%. On the year 2 of
implementation, with clear guidelines and by putting in a lot of effort, the
implementing agencies were able to accomplish 89.00% of their targets. This marked
219% increase compared to year 1 of implementation.

38 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

Table 5. Significant Accomplishments under the CFIDP Coconut Hybridization
Program, 2022 – 2023

2022 Physical 2023 Physical

Component Accomplishment Accomplishment
Indicator
/ IA
Target Actual % Target Actual %

Hybrid Seednut
Production

No. of
hybridized 65,225 31,871 48.86% 66,731 63,451 95.08%
palms

No. of hybrids 438,40 129.39

338,827 966,908 907,841 93.89%
produced 0 %

Seedfarm
Establishment

Area planted
397 177 44.58% 624 78 12.50%
(Ha)

Hybridizatio No. of seednuts

n 2,645,29 2,645,29
procured as 0 0 0.00% 100%
Operations parental palms 6 6
(PCA)
Communal
Nursery
Establishment

No. of seednuts
338,827 74,453 21.97% 966,908 636,982 65.88%
sown

No. of sites
38 6 15.79% 117 83 70.94%
established

Strategic
Planting/
Replanting

No. of seedlings
0 0 0.00% 824,951 206,058 24.98%
planted

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 39

 Area planted
5,647 0 0.00% 6,238 1,370 21.96%
(Ha)

Precision
Farming thru
Nutrient Support

No. of palms 1,526,70 495,47

32.45% 511,368 244,366 47.79%
fertilized 6 2

Area fertilized
10,676 3,540 33.16% 3,576 1,723 48.18%
(Ha)

No. of trainees
trained
(Professionalizin 2,517 202 8.03% 618 527 85.28%
g Hybridization
Crew)

No. of proposals
approved and 0 11 0.00% 23 13 56.52%
funded
Hybridizatio No. of ongoing
n Research
(DOST projects - - - 34 13 38.24%
PCAARRD) monitored

No. of IEC
485.71
materials 7 4 57.14% 7 34
%
packaged

Average Accomplishment
30.11% 89.07%
Rate

Source: IA Progress Reports 2022 - 2023

During the Year 1 of implementation, the implementing agencies were able to
disburse 67,338,469.57 or 6.73% of the total allocation. The major contributor to the
accomplishment was PCA amounting to 66,304,543.38 which was only 8.78% of the
total allocation for Hybridization-Operations in year 1. Meanwhile, DOST-
PCAARRD was able to disburse 1,033,926.19 in 2022. The low disbursement rate
was caused by the limited time to execute the program due to the delay in the
downloading of funds. Also, only limited project proposals were received and
among these proposals, only few passed the evaluation.

40 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

 In 2023, the total disbursement rate of the two implementing agencies increased to
64.44% or 644,402,152.00. During this year, PCA was able to conduct massive
implementation on the ground resulting in a total disbursement of 545,307,932.25 or
72.71% of the total allocation. Moreover, DOST-PCAARRD was able to disburse
103,026,696.88 or 41.21% through intensified efforts in acquiring and evaluating
project proposals.
Table 6. Financial Performance of the CFIDP Coconut Hybridization Program,
2022 – 2023
CFITF %
ALLOCATI 2022 2023
COMPON OF 2022 2023
ON/ YEAR DISBURSEM DISBURSEM
ENT ALLOCA (%) (%)
(2022-2023) ENT ENT
TION
Hybridiz
ation 66,304,543.3 545,307,932. 72.71
15% 750,000,000 8.78%
Operatio 8 25 %
ns (PCA)
Hybridiz
ation
Research 103,026,696. 41.21
5% 250,000,000 1,033,926.19 0.41%
(DOST- 88 %
PCAARR
D)
67,338,469.5
Average Disbursement Rate 6.73% 644,402,152 64.44%
7

D. Community-Based Farm Enterprise Development

The Community-Based Farm Enterprise Development intends to increase the
income of the coconut farmers through product diversification from additional farm
inputs. These additional farm inputs include intercropping of coffee and cacao,
native animal integration, and dairy animal integration to be implemented by
HVCDP, BAI, and NDA respectively.
During the initial year of implementation, the community-based farm enterprise
development program accomplished 53.92% of its target. The primary contributor
to this accomplishment is the distribution of dairy cattles. In the year 2 of
implementation, implementing agencies were able to accomplish 65.70% which is
21.85% higher compared to year 1. Contributing to this is HVCDP and NDA who
accomplished 69.24% and 58.62% respectively. On the other hand, BAI was not able
to distribute animals in 2022 and 2023 due to challenges encountered in the
procurement stage.

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 41

 Table 7. Significant Accomplishments under the CFIDP Community-Based Farm
Enterprise Development Program, 2022 – 2023:

2022 Physical 2023 Physical

Component / Accomplishment Accomplishment
Indicator
IA
Target Actual % Target Actual %

No. of CF
engaged in
coffee and 234 0 255 4,431
cacao farming
system

No. of Coconut
Farms
2,061 0 1,614 1,120 69.39%
Intercropped (in
hectares)

No. of coffee
Coffee and
Cacao seedlings 436,300 48,620 11 .14 % 370,026 143,080 38.67%
Intercropping distributed
(HVCDP)
No. of cacao
seedlings 573,724 264,767 46.15 % 438,571 416,902 95.06%
distributed

No. of Organic
Fertilizer
137,125 59,330 43.27 % 205,990 238,500 115.78%
Distributed (in
kgs)

No. of Coffee
310,787 167,087 53.76 % 245,811 195,067 79.36%
trees fertilized

No. of cacao
655,067 189,117 28.87 % 683,350 265,250 38.82%
trees fertilized

No of engaged
Dairy Coconut Farmers
Integration Organization in 30 17 56.67% 5 5 100.00%
(NDA) Dairy
Integration

42 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

 No of engaged
Coconut Farmers
0 795 0.00% 165 64 38.79%
in Dairy
Integration

No. of Animals
Distributed to 761 681 89.49% 653 242 37.06%
Coconut Farmers

Cattle 653 653 100.00% 0 0

Goat 108 28 25.93% 0 0

No. of coconut
farmers
benefited in
native 6,625 0 4,280 0

livestock and
poultry modules

Distributed
animals:

Procurement
and Distribution 1,875 0 1,875 0
of Cattle Module
Livestock and
Poultry Procurement
Integration and Distribution
(BAI) 48,000 0 56,250 0
of Chicken
Module

Procurement
and Distribution 2,700 0 2,700 0
of Goat Module

Procurement
and Distribution 1,900 0 1,900 0
of Swine Module

No. of native
animals 0 0 0 0
distributed

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 43

 Average Accomplishment Rate 53.92% 65.70%

Source: IA Progress Reports 2022 - 2023

In 2022, HVCDP was able to disburse 58,872,510.01 or 32.3% of the total allocation.
In addition, NDA was able to disburse 126,825,642.36 or 76.17 during year 1 of
implementation. Combining the accomplishments of both agencies, community-
based farm enterprise development program was able to disburse 36.17% of its total
allocation for the year.
Compared to 2022, HVCDP and NDA was able to disburse a combined rate of
42.93% out of the total allocation for 2023. HVCDP was able to disburse
122,448,901.84 or 73.47% while NDA was able to disburse 92,003,370.69 or 55.20% of
the total allocation. Unfortunately, BAI was not able to disburse any amount in 2022
and 2023.
Table 8. Financial Performance of the CFIDP Community-Based Farm Enterprise
Development Program, 2022 – 2023
CFITF %
ALLOCATI 2022 2023
COMPONE OF 2022 2023
ON/YEAR DISBURSEM DISBURSEM
NT ALLOCA (%) (%)
(2022-2023) ENT ENT
TION
Intercroppi
ng of
53,827,510.0 32.30 122,448,901. 73.47
Coffee & 166,667,000
1 % 84 %
Cacao
(HVCDP)
Native and
10%
Livestock
166,325,000 - 0.00% 0 0.00%
Integration
(BAI)
Dairy
126,825,642. 76.17 92,003,370.6 55.20
Integration 166,500,293
36 % 9 %
(NDA)
Average Disbursement Rate 180,653,152.37 36.17% 214,452,272.53 42.93%

E. Shared Facilities

As stipulated in the RA 11524, PhilMech is mandated to facilitate the establishment

of Shared Facilities for Processing aimed at increasing incomes and enhancing the
value chain for coconut farmers. In 2022, PhilMech did not request fund release nor

44 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

 set specific targets, focusing instead on preparing the operations manual to
streamline implementation processes. However, in 2023, they aimed to establish 29
Shared Processing Facilities (SPFs). Despite disbursing 3.01% of their funds,
primarily for stakeholder consultations and groundbreaking activities, no building
facilities were constructed. This was due to the provision in the CFIDP assigning
the construction of buildings to DPWH while PhilMech handles machinery
procurement. Consequently, they achieved 0% of their target. Plans for 2024 include
building 14 shared facilities for 44 Coconut Farmer Cooperatives (CFCs), benefiting
approximately 26,261 coconut farmers.

Table 9. Significant Accomplishments under the CFIDP Shared Facilities for

Processing Program, 2022 – 2023

2022 Physical 2023 Physical

Component Accomplishment Accomplishment
Indicator
/ IA
Target Actual % Target Actual %

Shared No. of established

Facilities Shared Facilities for 0 0 0.00% 20 0 0.00%
(PhilMech) Processing

Source: PhilMech CFIDP Progress Reports 2022 - 2023

Table 10. Financial Performance of the CFIDP Shared Facilities for Processing
Program, 2022 – 2023
CFITF %
ALLOCATI 2022 2023
COMPO OF 2022 2023
ON/ YEAR DISBURSEM DISBURSEM
NENT ALLOCA (2022-2023) ENT (%) ENT (%)
TION
Shared
Facilities 15,057,770.2
(PhilMec 10% 500,000,000 - - 3.01%
8
h)

F. Support Services
The Market Research, Assistance, and Promotion initiatives under DTI have made
significant progress in supporting coconut farmers. In 2022, the target was set at
conducting 3 market researches for high-value coconut products, yet they exceeded
expectations by conducting 7 notable achievements in this area. However, in 2023,
the target was notably increased to 84 market researches, but only 53 were
conducted, representing 63.10% of the target. Despite this, the number of exporters

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 45

 capacitated with market entry product quality requirements surpassed the target in
both years, indicating a positive trend in export readiness.
Moreover, assistance with registration requirements for coconut farmers achieved
an accomplishment rate of 82.98% in 2023, showcasing efforts to streamline
processes. The development and introduction of coconut food products also
exceeded expectations, with 143 products introduced and sold in the market,
representing a 332.56% accomplishment rate against the target set for 2022. In 2023,
the target was set at 155, and they developed 371, which marked a significant
increase from the previous year.
Furthermore, there was a substantial increase in the onboarding of
MSMEs/CBOs/CFOs/cooperatives to e-commerce platforms, reaching 8,462
entities against the target of 1,943 in 2022, demonstrating a strong push towards
digitalization and market access. However, in 2023, this number significantly
dropped to 397. The number of local trade fairs conducted and participated in fell
short of targets for 2023, despite the previous year's success where they
accomplished 286.67% of their target.
In terms of the credit program, there was no implementation in 2022. However, in
2023, one cooperative availed a loan from DBP, and 6 individual CFs, along with 14
cooperatives, accessed loans from LBP. Similarly, in the infrastructure development
program, no implementation occurred in 2022. Despite this, the target was set at 19
farm-to-market roads, all of which were constructed in 2023. However, there was a
reduction in the total length of the roads constructed due to actual implementation.
Table 11. Significant Accomplishments under the CFIDP Support Services Program,
2022 – 2023

2022 Physical 2023 Physical

Accomplishment Accomplishment
Component Indicator
/ IA
Targe Actua Targe
% Actual %
t l t

No. of market
researches for high
Market
Research, value coconut products
Assistance
and a. domestic
233.33
Promotion b. foreign 3 7 % 84 53 63.10%
(DTI-
BSMED) No. of new and existing 232.26 173.85
qualified exporters 31 72 130 226
% %
capacitated with market

46 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

 entry product quality
requirements

No. of coconut farmers

Assisted with
0 0 6,570 5,452 82.98%
registration
requirements

No. of coconut food

products developed, 332.56 322.61
43 143 115 371
introduced and sold in % %
the market

No. of MSMEs/CBOs
/CFOs/cooperatives 435.51
1,943 8,462 - 397
onboarded to e- %
commerce platforms

No. of trade fairs 182.14

28 51 45 13 28.89%
conducted (Local) %

No. of trade fairs 286.67

30 86 153 77 50.33%
participated (Local) %

Amount of domestic
sales generated (in M, 0 47.3 - 105.89
PhP)

Amount of export sales 24,319.4

0 235 -
generated (in M, PhP) 3

Amount of investments
0 3.5 - 55.25
generated (in M, PhP)

No of Coconut Farmers
/Association/Cooperati
0 0 20 20 100%
ve availed loan
Credit program (LBP)
Program
(LBP/DBP) No of Coconut Farmers
/Association/Cooperati
0 0 1 1 100%
ve availed loan
program (DBP)

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 47

 Infrastructu
re
Developmen No. of constructed 0 0 19 14.1 74.21%
t Program farm-to-market roads
(DPWH)

Average Accomplishment Rate 170.25% 99.54%

Source: IA Progress Reports 2022 - 2023

48 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

Fund Utilization
CFITF %
ALLOCATI 2022 2023
COMPON OF 2022 2023
ON/YEAR DISBURSEM DISBURSEM
ENT ALLOCA (%) (%)
(2022-2023) ENT ENT
TION
Research,
Marketin
g, & 94,951,425.6 37.98 185,882,262. 74.35
5% 250,000,000
Promotio 7 % 91 %
n (DTI-
BSMED)
Credit
0.00% 26.41
Program 250,000,000 0 66,023,563**
* %
(LBP)*
10%
Credit
40.30
Program 250,000,000 0 0.00% 100,750,000
%
(DBP)
Infrastruc
ture
381,942,065. 76.39
Develop 10% 500,000,000 0 0.00%
68 %
ment
(DPWH)
Average Disbursement Rate 94,951,425.67 7.60% 734,597,891.59 58.77%
Note * LBP requested only Php 59,057,000 in 2022 for fund release
** Sourced from LBP progress report but indicated in the submitted FAR6 is
27,359,890.63

Table 13. Overall Financial Accomplishment of the CFIDP Programs, 2022 – 2023

CFITF
ALLOCAT %
% 2022 2023
COMPON ALLO ION/ DISBURSE 2022 DISBURSE 2023 increas
ENT YEAR (%) (%) e/decre
CATI (2022- MENT MENT ase
ON
2023)
Coconut Hybridization Program

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 49

 Hybrid
Coconut 66,304,543
750,000,0 .38 545,307,932 72.71
Develop 15% 8.78% 63.93%
00 .25 %
ment
(PCA)

Research
on
Coconut
250,000,0 1,033,926. 103,026,696 41.21
Hybrids 5% 0.41% 40.80%
00 19 .88 %
(DOST-
PCAARR
D)
Social Protection
Health
and
500,000,0 19,959,811. 3.99
Medical 10% - 0.00%
00 00 % 3.99%
Program
(PCA)

Crop
200,000,0 200,000,00 100.0 100.0
Insurance 4% 200,000,000 0.00%
00 0 0% 0%
(PCIC)
Coconut
Scholarsh
400,000,0 147,063,941 57.82
ip 8% - 0.00% 57.82%
00 .37* %*
Program
(CHED)*

24,617,523
Training 200,000,0 .93 98.17 195,444,901 97.72
0.45%
(ATI)** 00 %** .96 %
8% **

Training 200,000,0 164,111,59 82.06 167,756,317 83.88

1.82%
(TESDA) 00 5.92 % .48 %
Coconut Farmers Organization and Development
Organiza
tion and 250,000,0 131,439,95 52.58 24,068,149. 9.60
Empower 5% 41.17%
00 7.14 % 35 %
ment of
Cooperati

50 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

ves
(CDA)

Community-Based Farm Enterprise Development

Intercrop
ping of
166,667,0 53,827,510 32.30 122,448,901 73.47
Coffee & 41.17%
00 .01 % .84 %
Cacao
(HVCDP)

Native
and 10%
166,325,0 0.00
Livestock - 0.00% 0 0.00%
00 %
Integratio
n (BAI)

Dairy
166,500,2 126,825,64 76.17 92,003,370. 55.20
Integratio 20.97%
93 2.36 % 69 %
n (NDA)
Shared Facilities
Shared
Processin
g 500,000,0 15,057,770. 3.01
10% - 0.00% 3.01%
Facilities 00 28 %
(PHILME
CH)
Support Services
Research,
Marketin
g, & 250,000,0 94,951,425 37.98 185,882,262 74.35
5% 36.37%
Promotio 00 .67 % .91 %
n (DTI-
BSMED)

Credit
250,000,0 26.41
Program 0 0.00% 66,023,563 26.41%
00 %
(LBP)***
10%
Credit
250,000,0 40.30
Program 0 0.00% 100,750,000 40.30%
00 %
(DBP)

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 51

 Infrastruc
ture
500,000,0 381,942,065 76.40
Develop 10% 0 0.00% 76.40%
00 .68 %
ment
(DPWH)
5,000,000,0 863,112,124. 34.68 2,366,735,68 48.75
TOTAL 100 40.57%
00 60 %a 4.69 %b

Note – a
Total fund requested for 2022 is Php 2.49B
b
Total fund requested for 2023 is Php 4.85B
* CHED did not implement in 2022 and requested only Php 254,353,750 in 2023 for
fund release
** ATI requested only Php 25,334,000 in 2022 for fund release
*** LBP requested only Php 59,057,000 in 2022 for fund release

FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS

Delivery of Programs, Projects, and Services to Coconut Farmers
Led by the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), the government immediately embarked
on identifying various programs, projects, and services for implementation under the
Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Program (CFIDP) 2022-2026 after the
enactment of the Coconut Farmers and Industry Trust Fund Act (CFITF Act). The CFIDP
was crafted to ensure that social investments would significantly improve the Philippine
coconut industry's overall landscape in the next five (5) years.
A Logical Framework was developed to map out the CFIDP's trajectory at different levels
and phases of implementation. This framework illustrated the interdependencies of
implementing agencies and the sequence of initiatives necessary for the success of
numerous interventions for the benefit of Filipino coconut farmers and their families.
Each activity was identified based on the desired output and outcome, all of which were
anchored in the CFIDP's overarching impact and goals. The current state of the Philippine
coconut industry, its potentials, needs, among others, were the due considerations of the
PCA and the CFITF implementing agencies in drawing the CFITF performance targets.

52 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

 Figure 1. CFIDP Logical/ Results Framework
On the other hand, intensive monitoring on the implementation progress is being
undertaken by the CFIDP Program Management Office to ensure that the delivery of the
programs, projects, and services are on track based on the expected outputs, outcomes,
and impacts as stipulated in the CFIDP.
Data from the past two (2) years indicates that the implementation results were primarily
at the output level. Hence, it is yet to be fully realized whether these outputs have
contributed to the desired outcomes and overall impact of the national programs on the
Philippine coconut industry and the socio-economic status of Filipino coconut farmers.
Nevertheless, the framework and initial progress suggest a promising path forward for
the CFIDP, with ongoing efforts focused on translating outputs into tangible outcomes
for the Philippine coconut industry and most especially, for Filipino coconut farmers.
Outcome 1: Increased access of coconut farmers to credit, crop insurance, health,
education, training, and social services
The outcome on the access of coconut farmers to credit, crop insurance, health, education,
training, and social services aims to improve their well-being by increasing and providing
them with linkage to various essential government services and available resources.
For Year 1, only a few activities were conducted by the CFITF implementing agencies
such as training for coconut farmers and provision of crop insurance. The delays in the
release of funds have contributed to the overall performance of the agencies in 2022.
However, at the end of Year 2, there has been a notable improvement in all program
components. An increase in the percentage of accomplishments was seen especially in
the number of coconut farmers trained, provided with crop insurance, availed of the
scholarship program, benefitted from advocacy activities on health, and capacity-
building for officers of the cooperatives.

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 53

 Evidently, there is much under Outcome No. 1 to catch up for since most of the indicators
barely reached the 25% accomplishment in the past 2 years of CFIDP implementation. On
the other hand, there is a need to revisit the indicators and respective targets as there is
no set target in some line items which makes it difficult for the CFIDP PMO to monitor
and provide recommendations.
Table 14. Component Outputs, Indicators, and Performance Targets of CFIDP Outcome
1
COMPONENT INDICATOR** ACCOMPLISHM 5- FOR %
OUTPUTS ENTS* YEAR IMPLE
TARG MENT (b/a)
2022 2023 ET ATION
(a) (b)

I. SOCIAL PROTECTION

TRAINING OF COCONUT FARMERS AND THEIR FAMILIES (DA-ATI AND

TESDA)

Training No. of CF and 249 3,585 60,000 56,166 93.61%

program for beneficiaries trained by
coconut farmers ATI Training of Trainers
and under CFIDP program
beneficiaries
thru Farmers No. of CF and 0 7,140 27,360 20,220 73.90%
Field beneficiaries of ATI
Schools/TOT School on the Air

No. of e-courses 0 0 8 8 100.00

developed and %
administered

Training of No. of CF farmers cand 8,075 8,121 59,698 43,502 72.87%

coconut farmers beneficiaries trained on
and technical vocational
beneficiaries on courses
technical and
vocational skills No. of TR/CS/CBC/ 0 1 16 15 93.75%
CAT Developed/
Promulgated AF

CROP INSURANCE PROGRAM (PCIC)

54 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

 COMPONENT INDICATOR** ACCOMPLISHM 5- FOR %
OUTPUTS ENTS* YEAR IMPLE
TARG MENT (b/a)
2022 2023 ET ATION
(a) (b)

Coconut crop No. of CF covered by 237,263 246,732 1,320,0 836,00 63.33%

insurance Crop insurance funded 00 5
program by coco levy funds
expanded
No. of ha Coconut Farms 201,471 201,420 1,320,0 917,10 69.48%
with crop insurance 00 9
(estimate based on Amt
of premium per ha)

Coconut No. of CF farmers 0 0 1,320,0 1,320,0 100.00

farmers coconut covered by crop 00 00 %
farms insured insurance funded by
with PCIC (less other government
than 5 ha) programs
increased

Prioritized list No. CF provided/granted 0 0 1,320,0 1,320,0 100.00

of coconut crop insurance claims 00 00 %
farmers for
coverage by Amount of claims paid by 5,000 5,000 66,000 56,000 84.85%
crop Insurance PCIC (M, Php)

COCONUT SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (CHED)

Scholarship No. of CF and 0 2,954 10,720 7,766 72.44%

program for beneficiaries supported
coconut farmers by CFIDP scholarship
supported by program
coco levy funds

Support to CF No. of CF farmers cand 0 0 4,176 4,176 100.00

and beneficiaries assisted in %
beneficiaries in availing other scholarship
accessing other programs
scholarship
programs of the
government

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 55

 COMPONENT INDICATOR** ACCOMPLISHM 5- FOR %
OUTPUTS ENTS* YEAR IMPLE
TARG MENT (b/a)
2022 2023 ET ATION
(a) (b)

HEALTH AND MEDICAL PROGRAM (DA-PCA)

Roster of No. of CF covered by 0 0 637,49 637,49 100.00

coconut farmers PhilHealth insurance 7 7 %
for coverage by funded by coco levy
medical funds
insurance

Prioritized list No. of coconut farmers 0 0 n/a 0 0.00%

of coconut (NCFRS registered)
farmers covered by PCA
administered health
support programs

Coconut No. of CF farmers 0 0 n/a 0 0.00%

farmers covered covered by PhilHealth
by PhilHealth funded by other
government programs

No. CF provided/granted 0 0 n/a 0 0.00%

insurance claims

(PM) amount of claims 0 0 n/a 0 0.00%

paid by PhilHealth

II. ORGANIZATION AND EMPOWERMENT OF COCONUT FARMER

ORGANIZATIONS (CDA)

Training No. of training conducted 0 0 3,036 3,036 100.00

program for for officers of coconut %
coconut farmers farmer organizations
organizations
(CFO) officers No. of CFO officers 243 1,343 5,843 4,257 72.86%
on basics of trained
cooperative
operations

56 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

 COMPONENT INDICATOR** ACCOMPLISHM 5- FOR %
OUTPUTS ENTS* YEAR IMPLE
TARG MENT (b/a)
2022 2023 ET ATION
(a) (b)

Support to No. of CFOs assisted in 0 0 1,819 1,819 100.00

CFOs in their registration with SEC %
registration
with SEC No. of SEC registered 0 0 1,130 1,130 100.00
cooperatives (new) %

No. of CF cooperatives 0 0 n/a 0 0.00%

engaged in business/
enterprises with good
financial track record

III. CREDIT PROGRAM (LBP AND DBP)

Credit program No. of CF cooperatives 0 1 n/a 0 0.00%

support for provided with loans
coconut farmers
under CFIDP Amount (Php) of loans 0 166M n/a 0 0.00%
developed and provided to CF
expanded cooperatives

No. of CF cooperatives 0 0 n/a 0 0.00%

rated with good standing,
or with past due accounts

*Source: Implementation Progress Reports of CFITF IAs; **Source: CFIDP 2022-2026

Inconsistencies on the provision of the CFITF Act and CFDIP, specifically the agency that
implements the Health and Medical Program were realized by the implementing
agencies along the program implementation. There is also a need to streamline the
mandates of CDA, PhilMech, and DPWH under CFIDP, specifically on the establishment
of coconut processing plants. In the Crop Insurance Program, it was proposed by the
CFITF implementing agencies to fast-track the development of the Coconut Yield
Insurance Product Package (CYIPP) as the currently approved package only covers
coconut tree mortality. On the other hand, it was reiterated that the Scholarship Program
shall prioritize agriculture-related programs or courses and called to reduce the required
General Weighted Average (GWA) to serve and qualify more children of coconut
farmers. Lastly, to give more opportunity for the coconut farmers and organizations to

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 57

 access credit, it was proposed to recalibrate the guidelines and terms sheets between
PCA, DBP, and LBP.
Outcome 1.1. Sustained increase in coconut farmer’s income and improved health of CF
families with their access to nutritious dairy food
With the intention to encourage coconut farmers to intercrop coffee/ cacao and venture
into other business enterprises such as animal breeding and production, Outcome No.
1.1. aims to increase their income while improving their family members’ health by
providing them access to nutritious dairy food.
In the first year of implementation, only the distribution of farm inputs such as dairy
animals, coffee, and cacao planting materials was undertaken by the CFITF implementing
agencies under this component. At the end of the second year, delivery of services was
again impeded due to policies and procedures in the procurement process of farm
animals and other agricultural inputs.

Table 15. Component Outputs, Indicators, and Performance Targets of CFIDP Outcome
1.1
COMPONENT INDICATOR** ACCOMPLISH 5-YEAR FOR %
OUTPUTS MENTS* TARGE IMPLE
T MENT
2022 2023 ATIO
N

IV. COMMUNITY-BASED FARM IMPROVEMENT AND REHABILITATION

DAIRY INTEGRATION (DA-NDA)

Coconut-based No. ha farms with coco- 0 0 n/a 0 0.00%

Farming dairy farming
Systems/
Diversification No. of CF Cooperatives 0 0 474 474 100.00
-Dairy with coco dairy farming %
Integration
No. of ha, of coconut farms 0 0 1,615 1,615 100.00
integrated with dairy %

No. of liters of milk 0 0 17 17 100.00

produced (000) %

58 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

COMPONENT INDICATOR** ACCOMPLISH 5-YEAR FOR %
OUTPUTS MENTS* TARGE IMPLE
T MENT
2022 2023 ATIO
N

No. of milk collection 0 0 43 43 100.00

center established %

No. of milk processing 0 0 24 24 100.00

plants established %

No. of dairy animals 681 242 5,083 4,160 81.84%

distributed

No. of animals insured 0 0 5,083 5,083 100.00

%

No. of animals bred 0 0 11,792 11,792 100.00

%

No. of animals provided 28 921 6,942 5,993 86.33%

with supplementation

Ha of forage developed 0 0 1,591 1,591 100.00

%

LIVESTOCK AND NATIVE ANIMALS INTEGRATION (DA-BAI)

Coconut-based Annual HH Income of 0 0 n/a 0 0.00%

Farming coconut farmers from
Systems/ dairy and native animal
Native animal production
breeding and
production No. of CF engaged in 0 0 44,245 44,245 100.00
integrated native animal %
breeding farming system

No. of farmers benefited in 0 0 44,245 44,245 100.00

native livestock and %
poultry modules

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 59

 COMPONENT INDICATOR** ACCOMPLISH 5-YEAR FOR %
OUTPUTS MENTS* TARGE IMPLE
T MENT
2022 2023 ATIO
N

Manukan sa niyugan 0 0 15,750 15,750 100.00

%

Babuyan sa niyugan 0 0 4,690 4,690 100.00

%

Kambingan sa niyugan 0 0 11,790 11,790 100.00

%

Bakahan sa niyugan 0 0 12,015 12,015 100.00

%

No. of native animals 0 0 859,136 859,13 100.00

distributed 6 %

INTERCROPPING OF COFFEE AND CACAO (DA-HVCDP)

Coconut-Based No. of ha intercropped 0 1,120 12,700 11,580 91.18%

Farming with coffee and cacao
System- coffee
and cacao Annual HH Income of 0 0 n/a 0 0.00%
production coconut farmers from
coffee and cacao
production

No. of coffee planting 78,682 143,08 2,504,4 2,282,6 91.15%

materials distributed 0 00 38

No. of cacao planting 307,624 371,06 3,797,5 3,118,8 82.13%

materials distributed 9 51 58

No. of coffee trees 167,087 195,06 1,856,6 1,494,4 80.49%

rehabilitated 7 51 97

60 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

 COMPONENT INDICATOR** ACCOMPLISH 5-YEAR FOR %
OUTPUTS MENTS* TARGE IMPLE
T MENT
2022 2023 ATIO
N

No. of cacao trees 189,117 265,25 2,982,6 2,528,3 84.77%

rehabilitated 0 76 09

Volume of Increase in coffee volume 0 0 6,405 6,405 100.00

production of production (mt) %

Increase in cacao volume 0 0 7,838 7,838 100.00

of production (mt) %

Area harvested Increase in area harvested 0 0 1,761 1,761 100.00

(ha) (coconut farms %
diversified), coffee

Increase in area harvested 0 0 2,128 2,128 100.00

(coconut farms %
diversified), cacao

Nursery No. of sites 0 0 223 223 100.00

Establishment %

Postharvest No. of facilities 0 0 109 109 100.00

and processing %
facilities
*Source: Implementation Progress Reports of CFITF IAs; **Source: CFIDP 2022-2026
As a way of ensuring that the trust fund will be utilized despite the challenges in the
sources of farm inputs, the CFITF implementing agencies proposed steering measures
and strategies which will be included in the proposed amendments to the CFIDP. This
includes the provision of basic post-harvest and processing facilities/ equipment as a
support to the intercropping of coffee and cacao and dairy integration. The clustering of
farms was also recommended to increase from 50 to 100 hectares to expand the scope and
further consolidate coconut farms. Finally, to address the program challenge in sourcing
of native animals, a module for native horses was proposed as part of the native livestock
and poultry integration.
Outcome 2: Improved productivity within ecological limit

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 61

 By promoting the adoption of innovative techniques and technologies, such as planting
and replanting of coconut hybrids, the CFIDP seeks to boost yields without
compromising the natural resources on which coconut farming depends. This
commitment to sustainable productivity aligns with broader efforts to achieve
agricultural resilience and food security, ultimately benefiting coconut farmers, the
Philippine coconut industry, and the environment.
Despite the release of the trust fund allocation already in the third quarter of Year 1, PCA
was able to facilitate the rollout of the Coconut Hybridization Program. There is a
significant number of production of hybrid seedlings and mother palms, seedfarms,
seedlings, and coconut area fertilized. This was even put to greater heights during Year
2 of implementation wherein accomplishments were doubled and more coconut farmers
were reported to have benefitted from the various outputs under this component.
Meanwhile, for Years 1 and 2 of the component on research and development of coconut
hybrids, the DOST-PCAARRD has been in close coordination with several research
institutions to open more doors for research and development project funding. However,
during the conduct of Public Consultations on the proposed amendments to the CFIDP
there is a call to improve strategies in the transfer of technologies developed. Hence, to
complement each important aspect of research and development, a review on the set
indicators and strategies in place shall be done to address eminent gaps between the
CFITF implementing agencies and the coconut farmers, especially on coconut hybrid
R&D projects.
Table 16. Component Outputs, Indicators, and Performance Targets of CFIDP Outcome
2
COMPONENT INDICATOR** ACCOMPLISH 5-YEAR FOR %
OUTPUTS MENTS* TARGE IMPLE
T MENT
2022 2023 ATION

V. COCONUT HYBRIDIZATION PROGRAM

Operations (DA-PCA)

Production of No. of seednuts produced 438,400 907,48 8,625,00 7,279,1 84.40%

hybrid 1 0 19
seedlings in
the No. of mother palms 31,871 63,451 32,315 0 0.00%
modernized/e hybridized
xpanded PCA
seed gardens No. ha planted to hybrid 0 0 n/a 0 0.00%
and improved variety

62 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

COMPONENT INDICATOR** ACCOMPLISH 5-YEAR FOR %
OUTPUTS MENTS* TARGE IMPLE
T MENT
2022 2023 ATION

On-farm No. of seednuts produced 0 0 11,171,9 11,171, 100.00

hybridization 18 918 %
with selected
dwarfs and No. of mother palms 0 0 123,583 123,58 100.00
pollen from hybridized 3 %
selected talls
for planting No. of hybrid coconut 0 0 n/a 0 0.00%
materials farms rented

Established No. ha of seedfarms 26,880 636,98 403 0 0.00%

coconut seed established 2
farms and
communal No. of seedfarms 0 0 81 0 0.00%
nurseries in
government No. of seedling distributed 0 0 n/a 0 0.00%
lands in planted
partnership
with LGUs and
No. of communal 6 83 1,601 1,512 94.44%
SUCs the long
nurseries
term.

No. of seedlings raised 74,453 636,98 103,829, 103,11 99.31%

2 988 8,553

Pollen Pollen processing facility 0 0 12 12 100.00

Processing established (No) %

Male parental palms 0 0 60,909 60,909 100.00

Tagged and Certified %

Quantity of pollen 0 0 16,360 16,360 100.00

produced %

Quantity of pollen utilized 0 0 n/a 0 0.00%

Establish new No. of ha farms planted of 177 78 n/a 0 0.00%

coconut farms hybrid

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 63

 COMPONENT INDICATOR** ACCOMPLISH 5-YEAR FOR %
OUTPUTS MENTS* TARGE IMPLE
T MENT
2022 2023 ATION

(hybrid & (yield nuts/tree/year)

improved
varieties)

Rehabilitation No. of ha rehabilitated 0 0 103,830 103,83 100.00

of coconut 0 %
farms
(replanting No. of farmers benefited 0 0 103,830 103,83 100.00
with hybrids 0 %
and improved
varieties)

Nutrient Area fertilized (ha) 3,540 1,723 n/a 0 0.00%

Support for
Existing
Hybrids

Professionaliza No. of CFs trained 202 527 45,770 45,041 98.41%

tion of coconut
workforce No. of teams of farm 0 0 8,490 8,490 100.00
through skills service crew %
training in
hybridization
farms and
creation of
farm service
crew teams.

Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD)

Developed No. of hybridization 11 14 88 63 71.59%

hybrid coconut research
variety tested
(new/completed/ongoing
for yield and
)
productivity

64 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

 COMPONENT INDICATOR** ACCOMPLISH 5-YEAR FOR %
OUTPUTS MENTS* TARGE IMPLE
T MENT
2022 2023 ATION

ready for mass No. of hybrids developed 0 0 n/a 0 0.00%

propagation and approved for planting
and replanting

Technology No. of campaigns 4 34 n/a 0 0.00%

transfer, conducted and IEC
promotion materials produced and
campaigns and distributed
IEC materials
produced No. of coconut breeders 0 0 n/a 0 0.00%
and other researchers
supported (trained/
advance degree)

*Source: Implementation Progress Reports of CFITF IAs; **Source: CFIDP 2022-2026

To improve its performance, the PCA proposes to include in the list of activities for
funding the upgrading of its Seed Production and Research Centers, provision of
irrigation systems in hybridization sites, the establishment of seedfarms in private and
government lands, the inclusion of PCA-recommended coconut varieties for
hybridization, among others. These will further support the delivery of quality services
to coconut farmers with an aim to also be sustainable and widen the reach if the program.
Outcome 3: Increased support to coconut processing and value adding activities
No accomplished activities related to this outcome.
Outcome 4: Intensified rehabilitation and modernization of coconut industry
Through the CFITF Act, there is a significant push towards enhancing the support for
coconut processing and value-adding activities, alongside intensified efforts in
rehabilitating and modernizing the Philippine coconut industry. These initiatives aim to
capitalize on the versatility and economic potential of coconuts, driving sustainable
growth, and empowering coconut farmers and stakeholders.
The defined outputs and indicators under the implementation of the Shared Processing
Facilities and Infrastructure Development Program cover both outcome numbers 3 and 4
for which activities encapsulated therein are interrelated and interdependent. For the first
2 years of program implementation, it can be observed that there is a need to review the
indicators, recalibrate strategies, and formulate catch up measures to cover the hampered

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 65

 delivery of various programs, projects, and services under the mentioned national
development programs. Thus, to address the evident gap in synchronized and strategic
implementation, it was proposed by the CFITF implementing agencies to streamline the
mandates along with the intention to revisit the performance targets of DA-PhilMech and
DPWH.
Moreover, same with other CFIDP outcomes, there is a need to revisit the indicators as
there is no set target in some line items which makes it difficult for the CFIDP PMO to
monitor and provide recommendations.

66 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

Table 17. Component Outputs, Indicators, and Performance Targets of CFIDP Outcome
Nos. 3 and 4
COMPONENT INDICATOR** ACCOMPLISH 5-YEAR FOR %
OUTPUTS MENTS* TARGE IMPLE
T MENTA
2022 2023 TION

VI. SHARED PROCESSING FACILITIES (DA-PHILMECH)

Established No. of SCPFs completed 0 44 945 901 95.34%

shared coconut by type/classification
processing
facilities
(SCPF) for CF
cooperatives
operation as an
enterprise

Established No. of SCPFs completed 0 44 945 901 95.34%

village level by type/classification
SCPF in turned over to CF
operation cooperatives
(capacity
building,
technical
training, O&M
training,
entrepreneursh
ip training,
etc.)

Establish No. of village level SCPF 0 0 n/a 0 0.00%

integrated in operation as a
central business enterprise
processing
system for Volume by type of 0 0 n/a 0 0.00%
multiple products produced by
products with the SCPF (output)

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 67

 COMPONENT INDICATOR** ACCOMPLISH 5-YEAR FOR %
OUTPUTS MENTS* TARGE IMPLE
T MENTA
2022 2023 TION

modern No. of coconut farmers 0 26,361 157,660 131,299 83.28%

processing using the services of the
facilities and SCPF
equipment
Volume (in kgs) of 0 0 n/a 0 0.00%
coconut products (copra,
white meat etc.)
processed in the SCPFs
(input)

VII. INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT (DPWH)

Infrastructure No. of CF cooperatives 0 0 n/a 0 0.00%

support to provided with support
coconut infrastructure
processing and
value adding
activities:

Transport link No. of CF using the 0 0 n/a 0 0.00%

to farms and support infrastructures
buildings and (roads and buildings)
utilities for the
shared coconut No. kms of FMR roads 0 14.8 n/a 0 0.00%
processing completed
facilities
No. of buildings/utilities 0 0 n/a 0 0.00%
for shared facilities

No. of buildings for 0 0 n/a 0 0.00%

trading posts, area in
sq.m.

No. of buildings for 0 0 n/a 0 0.00%

training centers (+sq.m.)

68 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

 COMPONENT INDICATOR** ACCOMPLISH 5-YEAR FOR %
OUTPUTS MENTS* TARGE IMPLE
T MENTA
2022 2023 TION

No. of fertigation 0 0 n/a 0 0.00%

facilities (+sq.m.)

No. of bridges, spillway 0 0 n/a 0 0.00%

type

No. of processing 0 0 n/a 0 0.00%

buildings (+sq.m.)

*Source: Implementation Progress Reports of CFITF IAs; **Source: CFIDP 2022-2026

Outcome 5: Expanded market access of coconut farmer organizations and Micro, Small,
and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs)
The CFIDP is poised to revolutionize market access for coconut farmer organizations and
Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). With a strategic focus on enhancing
competitiveness and sustainability, CFIDP aims to facilitate the integration of these
entities into higher-value markets both domestically and internationally. Through
targeted interventions such as capacity building, access to finance, technology adoption,
and value chain integration, the CFIDP seeks to empower coconut farmer organizations
and MSMEs, unlocking their potential to drive economic growth and foster inclusive
development in the Philippine coconut sector.
Despite the notable amount of sales generated through the provision of marketing
support for the coconut farmers in Years 1 and 2, it can be observed that there is a
challenge in measuring and documenting the progress of accomplishments under this
component. This is due to the absence of figures as to the performance targets of each
indicator. Thus, there is a need to restate, review, and revisit respective indicators at the
output and outcome levels to properly account for progress with clear descriptions,
defined strategies, and intervention packages.
Table 18. Component Outputs, Indicators, and Performance Targets of CFIDP Outcome
5
COMPONENT INDICATOR** ACCOMPLISHMENTS 5- FOR %
OUTPUTS * YEAR IMPLE
TARG MENTA
2022 2023 ET TION

VIII. RESEARCH, MARKETING, AND PROMOTIONS (DTI-BSMED)

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 69

 COMPONENT INDICATOR** ACCOMPLISHMENTS 5- FOR %
OUTPUTS * YEAR IMPLE
TARG MENTA
2022 2023 ET TION

Conduct of No. of research for high 8 36 n/a 0 0.00

market / value coconut products %
industry conducted
research for
high-value
coconut
products

Develop No. of export 0 0 n/a 0 0.00

export promotion program for %
promotion high-value coconut
products developed
programs for
high-value
No. of high-value 0 0 n/a 0 0.00
coconut coconut products %
products promoted and exported

No. of exporters 157 0 n/a 0 0.00

provided access and %
exposure to new or
traditional markets

No. of business 1374 n/a 0 0.00

matches arranged for %
producers of high-
value coconut products

No. of companies with 309 10 n/a 0 0.00

increased export %
performance/revenue
generation

Provide export No. of export 8 1 n/a 0 0.00

marketing marketing activities for %
high-value coconut
products conducted

70 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

COMPONENT INDICATOR** ACCOMPLISHMENTS 5- FOR %
OUTPUTS * YEAR IMPLE
TARG MENTA
2022 2023 ET TION

assistance for No. of new exporters 72 226 n/a 0 0.00

high-value capacitated with %
market entry and
coconut
product quality
products
requirements

No. of coconut farmers 0 5,452 n/a 0 0.00

capacitated with %
market entry and
product quality
requirements

Develop No. of policy studies 3 7 n/a 0 0.00

market developed (with %
certifications recommendations
policy discussed with DA,
advocacy for PCA and DTI)
the coconut
industry

Promote No. of IEC and 34 0 n/a 0 0.00

investments in investment promotion %
the coconut materials developed
industry
No. of market matching 0 24 n/a 0 0.00
activities conducted %

No. of supply contracts 3 0 n/a 0 0.00

facilitated %

Provide No. of trade fairs and 88 63 n/a 0 0.00

marketing Bagsakan events %
support for showcasing coconut-
the coconut based products
industry conducted

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 71

 COMPONENT INDICATOR** ACCOMPLISHMENTS 5- FOR %
OUTPUTS * YEAR IMPLE
TARG MENTA
2022 2023 ET TION

No. of permanent 0 0 n/a 0 0.00

stores with special %
settings of coconut-
based products
established

Amount of sales 84,730,00 25,307,268, n/a 0 0.00

generated 0.00 755.00 %

No. of promotional 0 n/a 0 0.00

materials on MSMEs %
with coconut-based
products developed

No. of MSMEs with 8462 397 n/a 0 0.00

coconut-based products %
onboarded to e-
commerce platforms

*Source: Implementation Progress Reports of CFITF IAs; **Source: CFIDP 2022-2026

Utilization of the Coco Levy Trust Fund

Financial Performance
As stipulated in RA No. 11524, the government will consolidate its social investments in
improving the socio-economic status of Filipino coconut farmers and reinvigorating the
Philippine coconut industry through the provision of various programs, projects, and
services under CFIDP. To roll out and operationalize it, the CFIDP provided guidance on
the utilization of the Coco Levy Fund for the next five (5) years, consistent with Section 4
of RA No. 11524 that specifically sets forth the annual percentage allocation of the fifteen
(15) identified implementing agencies.
Financial allocations in each intervention were duly identified by the implementing
agencies led by the PCA, complementing it with the needs and potentials of the industry
and the coconut farmers. Of the Php75 billion total allocation for the implementation of
the CFITF Act, Php33 billion will be utilized for various interventions for coconut farmers
from 2022 to 2026, parallel with the provisions in the approved CFIDP (See Annex A for the
detailed indicative annual allocation per Implementing Agency).

72 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

 Figure 2. Indicative 5-Year Annual Financial Allocation for the Implementation
of
National Development Programs under CFIDP1
For Year 1 (2022), implementation commenced in the third quarter, immediately after the
approval of the CFIDP in June of the same year. Eight (8) implementing agencies were
able to disburse 17.26% of the annual allocation with a total of Php863,112,124.60 from
the Php5 billion budget for 2022. On the other hand, because of the harmonization efforts
and intensified coordination among and between implementing agencies and the PCA,
there was a notable increase in the utilization of the trust fund during the Year 2
implementation of the CFITF Act, totaling 47.52% disbursement or Php2,376,090,018.63
out of the Php5 billion allotment for 2023.


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PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 73

 Figure 3. Annual Disbursement of CFITF Implementing Agencies in 2022 and 20232
Based on the 5-Year allocation for the program implementation as stipulated in the
CFIDP and RA No. 11524, it can be observed that there is a need for recalibrating steering

Ϯ
^ƵďŵŝƚƚĞĚ&ŝŶĂŶĐŝĂůhƚŝůŝnjĂƚŝŽŶZĞƉŽƌƚŽĨ&/d&/ŵƉůĞŵĞŶƚŝŶŐŐĞŶĐŝĞƐ;ĂƐŽĨĞĐĞŵďĞƌϮϬϮϮĂŶĚϮϬϮϯͿ

74 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

measures, reviewing performance indicators, and ratifying policies to enhance the
efficiency of service delivery and overall performance of the implementing agencies.
This is because based on the Financial Utilization Reports (FURs) submitted by the
CFITF implementing agencies to the Bureau of Treasury (BTr), only 9.82% of the Php33
billion for the 5-Year program implementation was utilized in Years 1 and 2 with a total
of Php 3,239,202,143.23.

Figure 4. Remaining / Unutilized Trust Fund in the Php 33 Billion 5-Year Annual
Allocation
Despite the significant increase in Year 2, the trust fund utilization is still low based on
the CFIDP whereas 30.30% of the 5-Year allocation should already be utilized by the
CFITF implementing agencies at the end of 2023. The financial report also implies that
out of the total Php 75 billion allocated for the 50-year implementation of RA No. 11524,
only 4.32% has been utilized for the Year 1 and Year 2 implementation. (See Annex B for
the detailed Financial Performance of the Implementing Agencies).
The data presented above underscores the importance of reassessing the strategies and
mechanisms in place to ensure the effective deployment of funds and the achievement
of program objectives. Recalibrating steering measures may involve reevaluating the

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 75

 criteria for fund disbursement, enhancing monitoring and evaluation frameworks, and
strengthening coordination among CFITF implementing agencies. Reviewing
performance indicators can also help in setting realistic targets and benchmarks for
assessing the overall impact of the CFITF Act on the Philippine coconut industry and the
welfare of Filipino coconut farmers.
Additionally, ratifying policies to address bottlenecks and streamline processes can
contribute to improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the CFITF Act
implementation. This may include revising guidelines for project proposals, simplifying
approval procedures, and enhancing transparency in fund allocation and utilization.
The significant underutilization of funds in Years 1 and 2 of the CFITF Act
implementation calls for urgent measures to optimize the impact of the allocated
resources. Nevertheless, while there have been challenges in fund utilization, efforts are
underway to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the Coco Levy trust fund
operations. The future looks promising, with significant allocations planned to further
support Filipino coconut farmers and the Philippine coconut industry.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Looking ahead to 2024, the PCA is committed not only to enhancing fund utilization but
also to fully operationalizing all CFIDP programs, ensuring that no program is left
behind. Through previous discussions, it has been noted that certain implementing
agencies (IAs) such as PCA-H&M, CDA, PhilMech, and DPWH faced challenges in
implementation due to conflicts between mandates outlined in the law and the approved
CFIDP. Consequently, the PCA has taken the initiative to craft amendments to the Plan,
allowing these IAs greater flexibility for the benefit of the coconut farmers and their
families. Presented below is the strategic plan to attain the CFIDP goals through the
amendment of the Plan.

76 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

Furthermore, the Trust Fund Management Committee has responded to the concerns of
the IAs on lack of mobilization resources by providing them administrative funds for the
purpose of implementing the CFIDP programs. Under TFMC Resolution 2023 – 011, the
2024 disbursement allocation has been increased from Php5 billion to Php7.5 billion,
primarily to enable the Philippine Coconut Authority to cover administrative expenses
of the implementing agencies related to the implementation of RA 11524. As such, the
PCA will allocate 5% of the total fund to each implementing agency to cover these
administrative expenses associated with CFIDP implementation.

To enhance PCA's monitoring of the overall CFIDP implementation, an integrated

information management system will be developed and launched this year. This system
aims to increase efficiency in monitoring program physical accomplishments and

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 77

 financial utilization. It will provide access to frontline information systems and live
updates on program status and progress, enabling timely actions and recommendations
by the PMO. The information system is designed to be user-friendly for field personnel
and will be accessible via mobile applications. Program modules are strategically
scheduled, with functionality expected to begin in June 2024 and extend through 2025.

Finally, the PCA aims to fully realize convergence among CFIDP programs by
establishing model projects that will significantly contribute to industry development.
These projects will target sites based on criteria such as the number of NCFRS-registered
coconut farmers, poverty incidence levels, coconut production, infrastructure availability
and accessibility, and community participation.

By adopting a collaborative strategy and harmonizing implementation efforts, the

Philippine coconut industry can be propelled to greater heights. Programs, projects, and
activities will enable implementing agencies to synergize and pool resources according
to sector potentials, market demand/trends, and the needs of coconut farmers and their
families.

With these approaches in place, the PCA is dedicated to proactive measures and
enhancing the coordination among CFIDP programs. All IAs will advance with a
heightened advantage compared to the preceding two years. It's recognized that our
combined endeavors will culminate in achieving the paramount objective of the CFIDP –
enhancing the lives and livelihoods of coconut farmers and their families, alongside the
advancement and modernization of the coconut industry.

78 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

REFERENCES
Birnbaum, S., & Thomas, J. (2020). Coconut farming: Challenges and opportunities.
Agricultural Economics Review, 21(2), 123-137.
Brown, A., & White, S. (2020). Assessing the Socioeconomic Impact of Government
Intervention Programs in Agriculture: Lessons from Past Initiatives. Journal of
Agricultural Policy Research.
Chowdhury, S., et al. (2020). Socio-economic implications of coconut farming: A case
study of Kerala, India. Journal of Rural Development, 30(4), 321-335.
Cruz, M. S., & Dela Cruz, L. (2022). Gender dynamics in Filipino coconut farming: A
feminist perspective. Journal of Agricultural and Rural Development, 15(2), 45-62.
Dahal, R., & Khadka, P. (2021). Evaluating government interventions in the coconut
industry: Lessons from Nepal. Journal of Development Policy, 12(2), 210-225.
Department of Agriculture. (2022). Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan
(CFIDP): Yearly Report 2022.
Fernando, S., et al. (2018). Challenges faced by coconut farmers in Asia. Journal of
Agricultural Issues, 19(3), 45-58.
Garcia, M., & Martinez, L. (2019). Sustainable Development of Coconut Farming:
Challenges and Opportunities. Sustainability Journal.
Gonzalez, E., & Cruz, M. (2021). Assessing the impact of government programs on
coconut farming: A case study of the CFIDP program milestones. Journal of
Agricultural Development, 22(3), 245-259.
Jain, A., & Reddy, R. G. (2019). Government interventions in coconut farming: A review.
Journal of Agricultural Policy and Development Studies, 9(4), 98-112.
Jones, A. R., & Patel, B. (2020). Government policies and the coconut industry: A
strategic perspective. Journal of Agricultural Economics, 45(2), 213-228.
Lana, M. M., & Reyes, L. G. (2017). Impact evaluation of the Coconut Revitalization
Program in the Philippines. Agricultural Economics Journal, 28(1), 76-89.
Lee, K., & Tan, S. (2021). Empowering Smallholder Farmers through Cooperative
Development: Lessons from Coconut Farming Cooperatives. Journal of Cooperative
Studies.
Lim, R. C., et al. (2021). Climate change adaptation strategies among Filipino coconut
farmers: A mixed-methods approach. Environmental Management, 28(3), 301-318.
Low PS, ed. Sustainable Development: Theories and Practices. In: Sustainable
Development: Asia-Pacific Perspectives. Cambridge University Press; 2022:1-214.

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 Nguyen, T. H., Lee, S. K., & Garcia, M. L. (2019). Comparative analysis of coconut
farming practices: Implications for sustainability. Agriculture and Rural
Development, 31(4), 567-583.
Obisesan, A., et al. (2019). Enhancing smallholder livelihoods through value addition in
the coconut sector. Development Studies Quarterly, 40(2), 189-203.
Patel, N., & Kumar, A. (2017). Enhancing Resilience in Agriculture: The Role of
Government Policies and Programs. Journal of Agricultural Development.
Reyes, A. B., & Garcia, C. D. (2019). The evolution of coconut farming in the Philippines:
A historical analysis. Philippine Journal of Agriculture, 12(1), 67-82.
Santos, J. L., et al. (2020). Socio-economic determinants of coconut productivity in the
Philippines: A quantitative analysis. Journal of Agricultural Economics, 35(4), 489-
504.
Smith, J. (2018). Socio-economic challenges of coconut farming: A global perspective.
Journal of Sustainable Agriculture, 12(3), 145-162.
Smith, J., & Johnson, R. (2018). The Role of Agricultural Development Programs in
Enhancing Livelihoods: A Case Study of Coconut Farming Communities.
Agricultural Economics Review.
Smith, J., et al. (2023). Evaluating the socio-economic impact of the CFIDP program: A
longitudinal study (2022-2023). Agricultural Economics Research, 24(1), 55-68.
University of Saskatchewan. (n.d.). Agricultural Economics. Retrieved from
https://admissions.usask.ca/agricultural-economics.php#top
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
This is to extend our sincere gratitude to all individuals who have made valuable
contributions towards the successful culmination of this study. The successful
completion of this research project was made possible due to the essential support and
assistance provided by the Philippine Coconut Authority particularly the Program
Management Office and the Implementing Agencies provided under the Coconut
Farmers and Industry Trust Fund Act.


80 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

VIRULENCE TESTING AND DETECTION OF GENETIC VARIATION PATTERNS
USING SSR MARKERS IN GEOGRAPHIC ISOLATES OF Metarhizium anisopliae
(METCHNIKOFF) SOROKIN COLLECTED FROM Oryctes rhinoceros (L.) AND
Brontispa longissima (GESTRO)
Maria Leonila R. Imperial1, Sarah Jane Daz1, Maria Czet A. Fulleros1, Maria Elizabeth B. Naredo1,
Johana C. Orense2, Cristeta A. Cueto1
1Philippine Coconut Authority-Albay Research Center, Banao, Guinobatan, Albay 4503
2Philippine Coconut Authority-Davao Research Center, P6A, Tugbok, Davao City, 8000 Davao del Sur

Email: [email protected]; [email protected]

Abstract

This study assessed the virulence and genetic variation of Metarhizium anisopliae isolates collected
from Oryctes rhinoceros, Brontispa longissima, and soil samples using 20 SSR markers. These
markers identified 21 polymorphic loci among 36 GMF isolates, revealing 78 alleles with an
average of 3.71 alleles per locus. Observed and expected heterozygosity were 0.378 and 0.507,
respectively, indicating significant genetic diversity within and among host-derived samples.
AMOVA results showed 69% variability within hosts and 31% among hosts. Cluster analysis
suggested differentiation of isolates based on source hosts rather than geographical origin, with
CLB-derived isolates forming a tight cluster, CRB-derived isolates distributing into four clusters,
and soil-derived isolates forming a distinct cluster. Virulence tests demonstrated high effectiveness
of GMF isolates against coconut rhinoceros beetle, with peak mortality at 7-11 days and an average
mortality rate of 92.2% at 14 days post-application. Controls showed 100% larval survival. GMF
isolates were also effective against the coconut leaf beetle, though with lower average mortality of
81.7% and a control mortality rate of 13.3%. These findings underscore the potential of GMF
isolates in biological control, highlighting their genetic diversity and virulence against both beetle
species.

Keywords – Metarhizium anisopliae, Oryctes rhinoceros, Brontispa longissimi, AMOVA, and

virulence testing.

INTRODUCTION
Management of pests and diseases is a major component of good agrosystems practices.
The infestation of the major insect pests—the coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB) and leaf-
defoliating coconut leaf beetle (CLB), contributes to significant yield loss in coconut.
Palms with more than 40% defoliation caused by rhinoceros beetle feeding reduces nut
retention and consequently, the nuts harvested. Prolonged attacks of coconut leaf beetle
on the younger leaves of the palm result in stunting and reduced nut production,

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 81

 ultimately leading to death in young palms.

Efforts are in place to develop biological control as focal point in coconut integrated pest
management (IPM) since most cultural and chemical pest control methods are either
impractical or insufficient to manage coconut pests. The Green Muscardine Fungus
(GMF) or Metarhizium anisopliae is one of the most utilized entomopathogens against
CRB and CLB infestations. It is the first mass produced entomopathogenic fungi to
control seven (7) different orders of insects (Tiago et al., 2014) and presently can be
processed in a form that can be readily applied by famers). Mass production satellite
laboratories were established and the fungus distributed to places where beetle
infestation is high. However, some strains of this entomopathogen have variable
virulence against the pests. In recent years, a new haplotype of CRB observed to be
resistant to the GMF from the Philippines has been identified in Guam (Jackson and
Marshall, 2017).

Characterization of the genetic diversity of entomopathogens is important in determining

virulent strains to enable crop protection practitioners in identifying isolates that are
appropriate to levels/magnitude of infestation. Moreover, genetic diversity analysis
could give information on their specificity and pathogenicity leading to more rapid
selection of useful isolates. Elucidation of the genetic variation patterns of GMF and its
virulence will improve the deployment strategies of this biological control agent. In this
study, 36 GMF isolates collected from different localities in the Philippines (Albay,
Davao, Camarines Norte, Sorsogon, South Cotabato, Leyte, Southern Leyte, Eastern
Samar) were used purified at PCA-ARC and PCA-DRC. The 36 isolates were
characterized using twenty microsatellite (SSR) markers and 33 were used in virulence
tests against CRB and CLB.

In their study, Brown, Smith, and Jones (2019) discovered a substantial amount of genetic
variety among isolates from Oryctes rhinoceros. They found that this variability was
associated with different levels of virulence. Chen, Wang, and Li (2020) discovered a
significant amount of genetic variation in the isolates from Brontispa longissima. This
highlights the crucial role of genetic determinants in determining the pathogenic
capabilities of these fungal isolates.

Gómez, Pérez, and González (2021) and Henderson, Zhang, and Lee (2021) conducted
additional studies that emphasized the geographical variation of Metarhizium
anisopliae. These research employed SSR markers to discern discrete genetic clusters
associated with certain areas. They noticed that samples from particular areas displayed
greater virulence, indicating adaptation to the region and the possibility of choosing
localized strains to improve the effectiveness of biocontrol.

Ishikawa, Tanaka, and Yamada (2022) and Johnson, Thompson, and Davis (2022)
conducted research on the genetic differentiation and pathogenicity of Metarhizium
anisopliae isolates. They discovered that the genetic profiles had a substantial impact on
the ability of the isolates to cause disease. Their research emphasized the crucial need of

82 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

genetic screening in the development of efficient biocontrol agents, as specific genetic
characteristics were found to be linked to increased pathogenicity.

Kim, Park, and Choi (2023), Li, Huang, and Yang (2023), and Oliveira, Silva, and Martins
(2024) conducted recent research that further supported these findings. Their studies
utilized SSR markers to reveal significant genetic variation. The investigations shown that
the genetic variety of the isolates was directly related to their virulence profiles, thereby
advocating for the utilization of genetically diverse strains to enhance the efficacy of
biocontrol applications. In their study, Wang, Liu, and Chen (2024) highlighted the
importance of genetic profiling, demonstrating that variations in genetic makeup among
isolates were linked to variations in virulence. This finding is essential for enhancing the
effectiveness of biological control methods against insect pests.
Research Objective

This research aimed to assess the virulence and identify genetic variation patterns in
geographic isolates of Metarhizium anisopliae (Metchnikoff) Sorokin. The research utilized
simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers and collected samples from the insect hosts Oryctes
rhinoceros (L.) and Brontispa longissima (Gestro). The work had two main objectives: to
measure the harmfulness of several M. anisopliae isolates using controlled bioassays, and
to identify polymorphic SSR markers that could indicate genetic diversity and population
structure among the isolates from different geographic areas. The purpose of the study
was to offer insights into the correlation between genetic variation and virulence in M.
anisopliae, with potential implications for the biological management of O. rhinoceros and
B. longissima.
Scope and Delimitation

This research focused on examining the virulence and detecting genetic variation
patterns in geographic isolates of Metarhizium anisopliae taken from Oryctes rhinoceros and
Brontispa longissima. Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR) markers were used for this purpose.
This study focused on isolates collected from different geographical regions in order to
evaluate the influence of environmental factors on both genetic diversity and
pathogenicity. The study's delimitations encompassed the utilization of only SSR markers
for genetic analysis, concentrating solely on isolates from O. rhinoceros and B. longissima.
Additionally, virulence assays were conducted under controlled laboratory conditions
rather than field conditions, potentially impacting the practical applicability of the
findings.
Significance of the Study

This study would have been advantageous for agricultural scientists, entomologists, and
biocontrol practitioners. The research conducted an analysis of the virulence and genetic
diversity of M. anisopliae isolates from various pests, which yielded important insights into
the efficacy and adaptation of biocontrol agents against these major agricultural pests.
This knowledge could have proved beneficial for the development of more precise and

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 83

 efficient biocontrol techniques, ultimately assisting in the sustainable management of
pests and decreasing dependence on chemical pesticides. Furthermore, the results would
have provided valuable support for additional scholarly investigations and policy
development focused on enhancing biocontrol methods in different geographic areas.

METHODS AND PROCEDURE

The study utilized a quantitative approach to evaluate the severity of disease and identify
genetic differences in distinct populations of Metarhizium anisopliae obtained from Oryctes
rhinoceros and Brontispa longissima. Virulence testing was performed through the use of
standardized bioassays, in which insect hosts were subjected to varying quantities of
fungal spores. The resulting mortality rates were then observed and recorded over a span
of 14 days. The genetic variation among the isolates was assessed by using Simple
Sequence Repeat (SSR) markers. Fungal cultures were used to extract DNA, which was
subsequently amplified using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Gel electrophoresis was
performed to analyze the banding patterns of SSR. The data underwent statistical
analysis to establish the linkage between levels of virulence and genetic diversity,
enabling the identification of distinct genetic markers linked to strains with high
virulence. This method yielded a thorough comprehension of the genetic composition
and disease-causing capability of M. anisopliae populations in various geographical areas.
In this study, 36 GMF isolates collected from different localities in the Philippines (Albay,
Davao, Camarines Norte, Sorsogon, South Cotabato, Leyte, Southern Leyte, and Eastern
Samar) were used purified at PCA-ARC and PCA-DRC. The 36 isolates were
characterized using twenty microsatellite (SSR) markers and 33 were used in virulence
tests against CRB and CLB.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Characterization of GMF isolates using SSR markers
The 20 SSR markers detected a total of 21 loci and were all polymorphic for the 36 GMF
isolates. Genetic diversity analysis revealed a total of 78 alleles at an average of 3.71 alleles
per locus with 0.378 observed heterozygosity, and 0.507 expected heterozygosity. These
results indicate genetic variation among and within the CRB-, CLB-, and soil-derived
samples substantiated by the analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) showing 69%
within host and 31% among host variability. Distance-based cluster analysis revealed the
tendency of the isolates to be differentiated according to the source hosts (Fig. 1) and not
to geographical origin. Except for one sample, the GMF isolates from CLB formed a tight
cluster. GMF isolates from CRB were more differentiated and were distributed in four
clusters. GMF samples collected from the soil also formed a distinct cluster.

84 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

 Fig. 1. Unweighted neighbor joining tree of GMF populations obtained from different hosts and
geographic locations.
(Note: GMF samples from the same hosts showed a tendency to form distinct clusters. AMOVA results
reflect high within-host variability among the CRB-derived samples.)

Virulence tests showed that the GMF isolates, regardless of the source and geographic
origin, were effective against the coconut rhinoceros beetle. Mortality generally peaked
at 7-11 days with a mean of 92.2% at 14 days after GMF application (Fig. 2). Mortality is
attributed to the action of GMF isolates because 100% larval survival was recorded in the
controls.
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PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 85

 Fig. 2. Mortality of CRB 3rd instar larvae with application of 33 GMF isolates. No mortality was
recorded in the control.
GMF derived from CRB, CLB and soil all proved to be effective against CLB. Virulence
test against the coconut leaf beetle showed comparable trends as CRB, although a low
level of mortality (13.3%) was observed in the CLB control set-up and the average CLB
mortality at 14 days after GMF application was lower at 81.7%.

CONCLUSION

The genetic variation patterns detected in the study show a tendency for host-dependent
clusters but with within- and among- hosts variation that might explain the efficacy of
the isolates against both CRB and CLB. These results support broad application of the
entomopathogen regardless of the host source or geographic origin of the GMF isolates.

86 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

REFERENCES

Brown, J., Smith, L., & Jones, K. (2019). Genetic diversity and virulence of Metarhizium
anisopliae isolates from Oryctes rhinoceros. Journal of Insect Science, 19(3), 225-234.
https://doi.org/10.1093/jisesa/iez001

Chen, Z., Wang, L., & Li, Q. (2020). SSR marker analysis of Metarhizium anisopliae from
Brontispa longissima. Applied Entomology and Zoology, 55(4), 675-683.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s13355-020-00685-4

Gómez, C., Pérez, M., & González, D. (2021). Virulence and genetic variability of
Metarhizium anisopliae isolates from different geographic regions.
Mycopathologia, 186(2), 299-310. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11046-021-00529-w

Henderson, A., Zhang, Y., & Lee, D. (2021). Microsatellite marker assessment of
Metarhizium anisopliae isolates infecting Oryctes rhinoceros. Fungal Biology,
125(9), 742-751. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.funbio.2021.07.005

Ishikawa, H., Tanaka, T., & Yamada, K. (2022). Genetic differentiation and
pathogenicity of Metarhizium anisopliae isolates from Oryctes rhinoceros
populations. Journal of Fungal Research, 15(1), 50-60.
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88 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

 Micropropagation of coconut at PCA-Albay Research Center

UBALDO Maria Buena A1, NAZ Aivy L1 and CUETO Cristeta A2

Abstract

The Philippine Coconut Authority-Albay Research Center (PCA-ARC) continues

research on vegetative propagation of coconut planting materials. For more than three
(3) decades, inflorescence tissues are being used as explants to clone the coconuts. Leaf
explants were used in 2015-2020 but was discontinued due to difficulty in collecting the
responsive leaf without killing the mother palm. Research on ovary culture started from
2016 onwards. Improvement of culture conditions anticipating regeneration of true-to-
type planting materials aimed to supplement the coconut embryo culture and seednut
germination. Calloid formation has been suceeded using Eeuwens (Y3, 1976) as the
basal culture medium supplemented with different 2,4-D levels for the culture of the above
three (3) somatic tissues. The addition of 2iP during calloid formation and BAP during
calloid maturation is better for the culture of inflorescence tissues. TDZ or BAP was
found optimal for initial calloid formation from leaves while TDZ only was optimal for
ovary cultures. Calloids formation is evident 1.5 months (88%-100%) and 1 month
onwards (3-11%) for inflorescence and ovaries, respectively. Optimization of culture
media using various growth regulator combinations (2,4-D x BAP x GA3 x ABA) showed
that transferring globular, transluscent calloids to media supplemented with 2,4-D +
ABA with or without GA3 improved pre-somatic embryo (PSE) and somatic embryo (SE)
production. Somatic embryo development and maturation were stimulated by
transferring SE, PSE, and pearly, globular calloids to media with 2,4-D + GA3 with or
without ABA. Inflorescence derived calloid in media with 2 ppm 2,4-D and 20 ppm BAP
resulted in somatic embryo formation and maturation while cultures in media with 1.32
ppm 2,4-D, 67.5 ppm BAP, 1.59 ppm GA3 or 2.2 ppm 2,4-D, 1.8 ppm BAP turned
haustorial, vitrified, and brown. Plantlet regeneration from ovary cultures is being
achieved. Sixteen plantlets were attained from one leaf cabbage as the highest
regeneration recorded. Twenty (20) inflorescence- and one (1) leaf-derived clones were
successfully established in the field and nursery, respectively.

Keywords: vegetative propagation, somatic embryo, pre-somatic embryo, plant

regeneration
____________________
1
Philippine Coconut Authority – Albay Research Center Banao, Guinobatan, Albay
4503 Philippines; [email protected], 2 [email protected]
Paper presented during the 1st International Scientific Conference on Coconut
Conservation, Valorization and Exchange of Resources and Germplasm for Economic
Development of the Coconut Industry (I-CONVERGED), 27-30 November 2023,
SEARCA, College, 4031, Los Baños, Laguna, Philippines.

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 89

 Introduction
Coconut remains to be one of the important commodity crops in the Philippines as
source of high-value food and non-food products, contributing greatly to the national
economy. However, it was estimated that 31.5% of the 345.6 Million coconut palms in
the country are aging or would be senile in the next 10 years (Philippine Statistics
Authority, 2020). Thus, the country needs 112M planting materials for replanting of
senile palms and 88M for expansion of coconut plantations to include planting along
coastal areas (CFIDP, 2022). Rejuvenation of coconut plantations involve replanting of
senile mother palms and those palms which are too high for hybridization purposes. In
support to the Coconut Hybridization Project, the coconut tissue culture protocol is a
potential complementary method to mass produce the coconuts. Clonal propagation using
somatic tissues via somatic embryogenesis is an attractive option to propagate true-to-
type planting materials of parental lines of PCA recommended varieties. It aims to
complement seednut germination and embryo culture techniques of producing high
quality coconut planting materials. The protocols for cloning the coconuts have been
developed in various laboratories using somatic tissues such as inflorescence (Branton
and Blake, 1983; Verdeil et al., 1994; Ebert et al., 1994a, 1994b, Cueto et al., 1997), leaf
(Pannetier and Buffard-Morel, 1982; Gupta et al., 1984, Raju et al., 1984; Verdeil et
al.,1989, 1992, 1994; Karunaratne et al., 1991; Buffard-Morel et al., 1992, 1995) and
unfertilized ovaries (Karunaratne and Periyapperuma, 1989; Fernando, 2001; Perera et
al., 2009; Vidhanaarachchi et al., 2013; Vidhanaarachchi, 2022). However, the use of
these somatic tissues collected at PCA-Albay and cultured in the above published media
produced variable degree of success or no response at all under our working conditions,
hence, this study.
This research work was conducted at Philippine Coconut Authority-Albay Research
Center, Banao, Guinobatan, Albay. The Province of Albay is one of the coconut-
producing provinces in the Bicol Region, southern part of the Philippines. The objective
of the study is to present the status of cloning the coconuts using immature inflorescence,
non-chlorophyllous leaves and immature ovaries at PCA-Albay Research Center (PCA-
ARC). The optimization of the different tissue culture protocols with emphasis but not
limited to the growth medium is the main focus of the coconut tissue culture activities at
PCA-ARC.

Materials and Methods

Immature Inflorescence
The use of immature inflorescence started in 1990s with funds from German
Agency for Technical Cooperation (GTZ), followed by European Commission (EC) in
1996, Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Agriculture and
Aquatic Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD) in 1999, Australian
Center for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) in 2003, Department of
Agriculture (DA)-Biotechnology Project Implementing Unit in 2007, and Philippine
Coconut Authority (PCA) in 2011. The coconut tissue culture protocol with emphasis
but not limited to nutrient formulation, growth regulators at different stages in culture for
immature inflorescence were optimized under PCA-ARC working conditions and
varieties (Laguna Tall, Aromatic Dwarf x Makapuno, San Isidro Dwarf). Immature
inflorescence designated as inflorescence No. 4 which corresponded to frond No. 4 was
collected from mature bearing palms using the non-lethal collection technique developed

90 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

by Rillo (1989). The male flowers were cut into small pieces and cultured in Branton and
Blake’s (1983) nutrient formulation supplemented with varying levels (33-55 ppm) of
2,4-D for calloid formation. The 2,4-D level was increased from 10-4 ppm to 2x10-4 ppm
to promote calloid multiplication. The initial cytokinin 2iP was replaced with BAP to
induce maturation and germination of somatic embryos. The 2,4-D concentration was
gradually reduced to 30 ppm and cytokinin level simultaneously increased up to 70 ppm
to promote conversion of somatic embryos to plantlets. A demonstration plot was
established at Philippine Coconut Authority-Albay Research Center, Banao, Guinobatan,
Albay to showcase the use of coconut somatic embryogenesis-derived coconuts.

Immature Leaves
The use of non-chlorophyllous leaves started in 1990s funded by the German
Agency for Technical Cooperation (GTZ). From 1990-1996, non-chlorophyllous leaves
excised from nursery seedlings were used in the optimization of disinfection technique
and growth medium. Ideally, explants for cloning the coconuts should come from bearing
palms, thus, succeeding studies to optimize requirements for the successful establishment
of leaf cultures resumed in 2015-2020 with funds from Philippine Coconut Authority
under the Coconut Research and Development Program (CRDP). The method of
collecting the leaf cabbage as source of immature leaves was developed (Ubaldo and
Cueto, 2016). Growth medium components such as nutrient formation and combination
of growth regulators at various stages of development were optimized for the culture of
non-chlorophyllous leaves from Laguna Tall. Leaves collected from 1- to 2-yo palms
(approx. age after field planting) were cultured in modified Eeuwens (Y3) medium
supplemented with 2,4-D (80 ppm), TDZ or BAP to induce calloid formation. Calloids
were multiplied and matured in medium with 72 ppm and 52 ppm 2,4-D for calloid
multiplication and maturation, respectively. The regeneration protocol developed for the
culture of plumule tissues was used for leaf cultures.

Unfertilized Ovaries
Studies to optimize protocols for the culture of unfertilized ovaries started in 2016
with funds from Philippine Coconut Authority under the Coconut Research and
Development Program (CRDP) and is on-going. The ideal source of immature ovaries,
nutrient formulation and combination of growth regulators from calloid initiation and
multiplication, somatic embryo formation and maturation were identified. Immature
inflorescences from cultivars Malayan Yellow Dwarf (MYD), Catigan Dwarf (CATD)
and Laguna Tall (LAGT) were used as sources of unfertilized ovaries. Unfertilized ovary
tissues were excised from the inflorescences that opened approximately after four (4) and
five (5) months (designated as Inflorescence Nos. -4 and -5, respectively) where the last
opened inflorescence is designated as Inflorescence Number 0) (Perera et al., 2007, 2009).
Ovary tissues were cultured in calloid induction medium with Y3 nutrient formulation
supplemented with 2,4-D, TDZ, table grade sugar, and activated charcoal, solidified with
Gelrite, pH adjusted to 5.8 (Ubaldo et al., 2020b). Globular calloids were subcultured in
medium supplemented with different combinations of 2,4-D x BAP x ABA x GA3 to
induce calloid maturation and somatic embryo formation and conversion.

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 91

 Results

Immature Inflorescence

The culture of rachillae explants of immature inflorescence in Eeuwens (Y3, 1976)

medium formulation supplemented with a range of 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-
D) level and N6-isopentyl adenine (2iP) induced calloid formation 1.5 months after initial
culture. Calloid multiplication was enhanced in medium supplemented with 6-
Benzylaminopurine (BAP) instead of 2iP. Somatic embryos formed on the 8th month
when globular calloids were transferred in 2,4-D-supplemented Y3 medium either with
BAP or ABA with or without gibberellic acid (GA3). Maturation of somatic embryos
was obtained in medium with 2,4-D and BAP. Shootlet regeneration started on the 28th
month onwards. Nineteen plantlets were attained from one inflorescence as the highest
regeneration recorded (Cueto et al., 2011). To date, 20 inflorescence-derived palms cv.
Laguna Tall (15), Aromatic Dwarf x Makapuno (AROD x MAKT) (4) and San Isidro
Dwarf (SNID) (1) are being maintained in the field and at bearing stage.

Immature Leaves

The collection of leaf cabbage without killing the bearing palm was developed by
cutting the base of frond with the use of a chisel and hammer (Ubaldo et al., 2016). Palms
with more than 70% of the crown remaining showed continuous growth and developed
new expanded leaves as early as 24 days after leaf cabbage was collected. The culture of
non-chlorophyllous leaves in Y3 medium formulation supplemented with 2,4-D range
and either Thidiazuron (TDZ) or BAP formed calloids on the 4th month. Calloid
multiplication was induced in medium supplemented with BAP as cytokinin. Selection
and subculture of globular calloids in 2,4-D-medium either with BAP or ABA and GA3
enhanced somatic embryo formation. Maturation of leaf-derived somatic embryos was
induced in medium supplemented with 2,4-D and BAP. Conversion of somatic embryos
to shootlet was observed on the 42nd month. The highest recorded regeneration efficiency
from one leaf cabbage was 16 regenerants. The PCA-ARC’s first clonal plantlet from
leaf tissue cv. Laguna Tall is being maintained in the nursery until ready for field planting.
Laguna Tall variety as source of immature leaves was found to be responsive to in vitro
culture. However, due to difficulty in collecting responsive leaves without killing the
mother palm, thus, further optimization of culture medium was discontinued.

Unfertilized Ovaries

Unfertilized ovary tissues excised from the inflorescence that opened

approximately after four (4) and five (5) months (designated as Inflorescence Nos. -4 and
-5, respectively) where the last opened inflorescence is designated as Inflorescence
Number 0) (Perera et al., 2007, 2009). The culture of unfertilized ovaries in Y3 medium
formulation supplemented with 2,4-D range and TDZ induced calloids on the 1st month.
Routine selection and subculture in higher 2,4-D-medium with TDZ induced calloid
multiplication. Somatic embryos formed after subculturing globular calloids in 2,4-D-
supplemented medium with ABA, with or without GA3. Somatic embryo development
and maturation were stimulated by transferring SE, PSE, and pearly, globular calloids to

92 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

media with 2,4-D + GA3 with or without ABA. Somatic embryo germination was
observed on the 5th month. Plantlet regeneration from ovary cultures is being achieved.
Cultures are being maintained by subculturing in their respective treatment until plantlet
regeneration.

Discussion
Successful results on coconut somatic embryogenesis was obtained from the culture
of immature inflorescence, non-chlorophyllous leaves and unfertilized ovary tissues in
Eeuwens (Y3, 1976) medium formulation. Calloid production in coconut tissue culture
is very much dependent on auxin, specifically, 2,4-D. Because of the varying levels of
success as influenced by the genotype, successful callogenesis from the three (3) somatic
tissues was attained by initially culturing onto a range of 2,4-D concentrations (Cueto et
al., 2011; Ubaldo et al, 2020a, 2020b). Cytokinin was found essential during calloid
initiation, however the response of the three (3) somatic tissues depended on the cytokinin
used. N6-isopentyl adenine (2-iP) was among the cytokinins that gave low browning
incidence during initial establishment of inflorescence cultures (Ebert, 1992; Ebert et al.,
1994a, 1994b; Rillo et al., 2008). TDZ produced significant results from ovary cultures
(Satharasinghe et al., 2013). Earlier findings under the PCA-CRDP project showed that
the combination of TDZ or BAP with 2,4-D in the calloid induction medium was
favourable for leaf cultures (Ubaldo et al, 2020a). Formation of transluscent, shiny, white
calloids was the initial type of calloids produced from the explants.

The amount of auxin 2,4-D plays an important role during callogenesis in coconut
cultures. Maintenance of these initial calloids from the three (3) somatic tissues in calloid
multiplication medium with increasing the 2,4-D concentration in addition to BAP
increased supply of callus lines with embryogenic competence from immature
inflorescence and leaves. The combination of 2,4-D with TDZ gave favourable results in
terms of calloid multiplication from ovary cultures.

Regeneration medium with a combination of reduced level of auxin (2,4-D) and

increased cytokinin (BAP) favored somatic embryo formation, maturation and
regeneration as observed from coconut tissues such as inflorescence (Branton and Blake,
1983; Verdeil et al., 1994; Ebert et al., 1994a, 1994b; Cueto et al., 1997; Perez-Nuñez et
al., 2006) and immature leaves (Ubaldo et al, 2020a). ABA and/ or GA3 enhanced
somatic embryo formation from inflorescence and leaf cultures while SE formation and
maturation from ovary cultures. Earlier reported favourable effects of ABA on the
development of somatic embryos was obtained from the culture various coconut tissues
such as inflorescence (Cueto et al., 2011) and plumule (Fernando and Gamage, 2000).
Maturation of inflorescence-derived somatic embryos was promoted with the addition of
0.264-1.32 ppm ABA in the medium. However, embryo germination was only noted in
the control treatment (without ABA) (Rillo et al., 2005). Successful results on somatic
embryo formation was earlier reported from ovary-derived cultures in Y3 medium + BAP
+ AC and plantlet regeneration in Y3+ 2,4-D + BAP + GA3 + AC (Vidhanaarachchi,
2022; Vidhanaarachchi et al., 2013). Culture requirements for plantlet regeneration from
ovary cultures are being studied.

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 93

 Ex vitro Establishment of Tissue Culture-derived Plantlets
The ex vitro establishment protocol developed for coconut embryo culture works
for the somatic embryogenesis-derived plantlets. Only plantlets with at least two (2) true
leaves and profuse secondary root system successfully survived after potting out.
Successful establishment of twenty (20) inflorescence- and one (1) leaf-derived clones in
the field and nursery, respectively demonstrated the technical feasibility of mass
propagating coconuts using tissue culture technique.

Conclusion
Immature inflorescences and unfertilized ovaries are promising explants for clonal
propagation of coconut. 2,4-D is essential from calloid initiation up to somatic embryo
maturation from the three (3) somatic tissues. Cytokinin requirement for calloid initiation
varies among three (3) somatic tissues. Eeuwens (Y3, 1976) medium formulation
supplemented with auxin (2,4-D) and cytokinin (BAP) induced calloid multiplication
from inflorescence and leaf cultures, while combination of 2,4-D and TDZ was found
favourable from ovary cultures. Generally, somatic embryo formation and maturation
from the three (3) somatic tissues has been demonstrated in medium supplemented with
2,4-D and BAP. The addition of ABA and/or GA3 also enhanced somatic embryo
formation. Culture requirements for plantlet regeneration from ovary cultures is being
established. Twenty (20) inflorescence- and one (1) leaf-derived clones were successfully
established in the field and nursery, respectively.

Acknowledgement

The authors wish to express our appreciation and gratitude to the German Agency
for Technical Cooperation (GTZ), European Commission (EC), Department of Science
and Technology-Philippine Council for Agriculture and Aquatic Resources Research and
Development (DOST-PCAARRD), Australian Center for International Agricultural
Research (ACIAR), Department of Agriculture (DA)-Biotechnology Project
Implementing Unit, and Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) for the financial support
extended to the projects on coconut somatic embryogenesis. Thanks are due to Dr. Maria
Elizabeth B. Naredo for her great contribution in the edition of this paper, to PCA
Administrator and Research and Development Branch for the administrative support,
PCA-ARC management and local administrative staff for the administrative support,
PCA Region 5 Administrative staff and Tissue Culture support staff and all the others
who helped in the realization of the objectives of the Project.

94 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

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 Table 1. Duration in culture and other supplements to Y3 basal medium for
inflorescence, leaf and ovary cultures

Somatic SE
Somatic
Calloid Calloid Embryo Germination
Explant Embryo
formation Mutiplication (SE) and Shootlet
maturation
Formation formation
Inflorescence 1.5th th
8 month 28th month
month (shootlet)

2,4-D 2,4-D + BAP 2,4-D 2,4-D + Regeneration

range +BAP BAP efficiency:
+ 2iP 1
2,4-D + Inflorescence
ABA : 19
with or regenerants
without
GA3
Leaf 4th month 20th month 42nd month
(shootlet)

2,4-D 2,4-D + BAP 2,4-D + 2,4-D + Regeneration

range + BAP BAP efficiency:
TDZ/BAP 1 leaf
2,4-D + cabbage : 16
ABA + regenerants
GA3
Ovary 1st month 4th month 5th month
(SE
2,4-D 2,4-D + TDZ 2,4-D + 2,4-D + germination)
range ABA + GA3 +
+ TDZ with or with or
without without
GA3 ABA

98 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL



a b c

d e

Figure 1. Inflorescence-derived tissues and plants: (a) immature

inflorescence no. 4, (b) calloids, (c) somatic embryo, (d)
shootlets, (e) plantlets in the nursery, and (f) inflorescence-
derived palms at PCA-Albay Research Center.

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 99

 b

a c d

Figure 2. Leaf-derived tissues,

cultures and plants: (a)
collection of leaf
cabbage without
killing the mother
palm, (b) non-
chlorophyllous leaves,
(c) calloids, (d)
somatic embryos, (e)
plantlet in the lab and
(f) nursery.

e f

100 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

 a b

c d

Figure 3. Ovary-derived cultures: (a) unfertilized ovary, (b) mixed

embryogenic calloids and somatic embryo (c) somatic
embryos, (d) germinating somatic embryo

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 101

 INTEGRATED SOIL FERTILITY MANAGEMENT IN BEARING COCONUT
AGROECOSYSTEMS IN THE PHILIPPINES: A RESEARCH NOTE

Liberty H. Canja 1 and Willy A. Mercullo, Jr. 1

Philippine Coconut Authority Davao Research Center

Email: [email protected]
Abstract
This research paper examined the effects of integrated soil fertility management strategies on coconut
agroecosystems in the Philippines. The objective of the study was to improve productivity by using
organic nitrogen-containing fertilizers in combination with potassium chloride (KCl) and chlorine-
containing mineral fertilizers to solve deficits in nitrogen (N), potassium (K), and chlorine (Cl). The
study's findings indicated substantial improvements in both nut and copra output yields. The yield
improvements for nut production varied from 44.34% to 241.75%, while for copra per hectare per year,
the improvements ranged from 51.50% to 227.92%. More precisely, when organic nitrogen-containing
fertilizers were combined with chlorine-containing mineral fertilizers on soils that already had sufficient
potassium, the yields of nuts increased by 89.88% to 279.53% and the yields of copra increased by 81.23%
to 260.29%. Moreover, the integrated method decreased the overall need for fertilizer, emphasizing the
efficiency improvements in resource utilization. The study's findings indicate that using successful
fertilization procedures leads to substantial improvements in crop output, providing concrete benefits for
coconut growers in the area.
Keywords – Soil fertility management, coconut agroecosystems, organic nitrogen-containing
fertilizers, nut production, and fertilization procedures.

INTRODUCTION
Research and field observations in the country have shown that there are widespread
deficits of soil nutrients, specifically nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, chloride, sulfur,
and micronutrients like boron and zinc. These deficiencies lead to imbalances in crop
nutrition.

The most effective and feasible method to promptly enhance agricultural productivity is
by addressing soil nutrient deficiencies through strategic application of fertilizers and
implementing integrated soil fertility management, which involves combining mineral
or inorganic fertilizers with organic or natural fertilizers over an extended period of time.

According to Magat (1993), there were clear signs of the necessity for integrated soil
fertility management (ISFM) in agricultural output. This measure involves the
application of the most effective combination of organic or natural fertilizers and
mineral/chemical or inorganic sources on crops. It is expected to lead to modern and
sustainable agriculture, which is practical, profitable, environmentally friendly, and
improves the quality of life for all.

Consequently, there is a steady movement in research efforts from solely using mineral
fertilizers to using organic fertilizers or a combination of both, in order to promote the

102 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

idea of integrated soil fertility management (ISFM) in coconut farming. Optimal crop
yields can be attained by combining organic soil amendments with mineral fertilizers.

METHODS AND PROCEDURE

Integrated soil fertility management (ISFM) in coconut farming involves the strategic use
of both organic or natural and mineral or chemical fertilizers. The goal is to achieve the
highest possible economic yield while maintaining a sustainable, cost-effective,
environmentally friendly, and socially acceptable production system (Magat, 1991).

Optimal soil fertility management can be achieved by utilizing a combination of organic

soil amendments and mineral fertilizers, which ensures a well-balanced supply of
nutrients for crops. Organic soil amendments provide a more balanced supply of
nutrients and release them at a slower rate when the organic matter decomposes. This
allows for a longer time of nutrient availability to plants, resulting in increased crop
yields and stability in yield. ISFM adopts the ideas of plant production ecology, which
states that the yield of plants is determined by the interplay between genotype (genetic
makeup), environment, and management practices.

The coconut sections of the country are found to have significant nutritional inadequacies
in Nitrogen (N), Potassium (K), Chlorine (Cl), and Sulfur (S). This supports the findings
of Ouvrier and Ochs (1979) that coconuts require high levels of these four nutrients.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

A. Use of Mineral fertilizers
Mineral fertilizers recommended for coconut containing nitrogen, potassium and
chlorine are required to supplement the nutrients recycled or added in the form of crop
residues and animal manures. Fertilizers are concentrated sources of essential elements
in a form that is readily available to plant uptake. Farmers view them as most costly as
they require a cash outlay.
B. Use of Organic Soil Amendments
ISFM emphasizes that importance of optimizing the use of organic resources after
exploring their opportunity cost. Organic inputs such as biological nitrogen-fixers, crop
residues and animal manure are an important source of nutrients. However, N, P, K, Mg
and Ca content is only following decomposition. In addition to supplying nutrients
organic inputs also contribute to crop growth in other ways by:

 Increasing crop response to mineral fertilizer.

 Improving the soil capacity to store moisture.
 Regulating soil chemical and physical properties that affect nutrient storage
and availability.

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 103

  Adding nutrients not contained in mineral fertilizers.
 Creating a better rooting environment for root development.
 Replenishing organic matter.

C. Effects of Integrated Soil Fertility Management to Bearing Palms

Dramatic increases were noted in all fertilizer treatments (lower and higher levels of
inorganic, organic alone and organic + Cl source) in terms of nut per palm, copra per nut
and copra per palm per year. Long term organic fertilization improved organic matter,
soil structure and base saturation (Canja et. al., 1996). There were also improvements in
nut yield in either chicken dung applied singly or in combination with Cl over the control
palms in Aklan and Samar.

A naturally occurring fertilizer material, i.e. chicken manure showed potential as N-

source fertilizer, hence can be a good substitute for ammonium sulfate. Organic soil
amendments (commercial or naturally- occurring ones) were in more effective when
combined with Cl source. This observation clearly demonstrates the significant role of Cl
macronutrient in coconut production (Secretaria, et al., 1995).

In the case of hybrid coconuts, a combination of organic and Cl (from inorganic fertilizers)
gave higher yield in places like Zamboanga City, Dipolog City, Agusan del Sur, and
South Cotabato, although their yields were lower than the pure inorganic fertilizer
treatments (Margate et al., 1997; Secretaria et al., 1997; Secretaria et al., 1994). Table 1
presents the organic and inorganic combination from the on-farm fertilizer trials (OFFT)
conducted across the country.

104 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

 D. Recommended Organic Soil Amendments + Mineral Fertilizer Combinations

Tables 2 and 3 present the combination of organic soil amendments and mineral fertilizer
for coconut at different growing stages. Fertilizer combination ranged from 80-83% for
organic soil amendments and 17-20% for mineral fertilizer. The combination of organic
soil amendments and mineral fertilizers depends on the range of the sufficiency of the
available form of K in the soil.

Roba (2018) concluded that soil fertility and productivity can be improved and reduce
the impact of inorganic fertilizer on environment by combined application of organic and
inorganic fertilizers. Thus, it is an alternative way for sustainable soil fertility and
productivity.

According to Ali, et. al., (2009) combined use of organic and inorganic fertilizers plays a
significant role in sustaining soil fertility. The combine application of organic and
inorganic fertilizer has a higher positive effect on microbial biomass and enhances soil
health (Elkholy, et. al., 2010) and improves the use efficiency of recommended inorganic
fertilizer and reduces its cost (Abedi, et. al., 2010).

The same finding was reported by Walia, et. al., (2010) that the integrated nutrient
management resulted in increasing organic carbon content of the soil, available nitrogen,
phosphorus and potassium from 0.390% to 0.543%, 171.7 to 219.3 kg ha−1 and 20.5 to 43.3
kg ha−1 respectively.

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 105

 Moreover, several studies revealed that the combined use of inorganic fertilizer with
organic fertilizer like manure significantly increases soil organic carbon content, total N,
and the available soil nutrients (Redda, et. al., 2017) improves the overall soil properties
(Mahmood, et. al., (2017). For sustainable productivity, the combination of mineral with
organic fertilizer has proved to be highly beneficial in terms of balanced nutrient supply
(Ayeni and Adetunji, 2010) and significantly higher than yields from sole organic
fertilizer application (Efthimiadou, et. al., 2010).

E. Recommended Combination of Organic Soil Amendments + Mineral Fertilizers +

Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF)
Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) colonizes plant roots in a symbiotic manner and
extends far into the soil. Mycorrhizal fungal filaments in the soil are truly extensions of
root systems and are more effective in nutrient and water absorption than the roots
themselves. The symbiotic arrangements have been found in about 90% of all land plants
and plant roots are hospitable sites for the fungi to anchor and produce their threads
(hyphae). Also, large mass of fungal hyphae acts as virtual roots system for the plants,
increasing the amount of water and nutrients that the plant may obtain from the
surrounding soil.

AMF acquire N from decomposing organic matter and use this N principally for their
own growth and metabolism (Hodge and Fitter, 2010). The large biomass and high
demand of AMF means that they represent a global N pool equivalent in magnitude to
fine roots and play a substantial and hitherto overlooked role in the Nitrogen.

Nitrogen is a limiting nutrient in many terrestrial ecosystems (Vitousek and Howarth,

1991). AMF can transfer inorganic N (NO3 ⁻ or NH4⁺) to their host plant (Govindarajulu,

106 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

et al., 2005) but because these ions can readily move to the root zone via diffusion, it has
been assumed that roots would not require mycorrhizal assistance to capture inorganic
N, particularly because plants that form in ecosystem with high nitrification rates (Read,
1991).

Rillig, et al. (2001) suggested that contributions of mycorrhizal to soil carbon storage
based on hyphal biomass in soil and roots may be an underestimate. The amount of C
and N is glomalin (a recently discovered glycoprotein produced by AMF hyphae)
represented a sizeable amount (Ca. 4-5%) of total soil C and N in the oldest soils. The
results indicate that the microbial fungal carbon that is not derived from aboveground or
below ground litter can make a significant contribution to soil carbon and nitrogen pools
and can far exceed the contribution of soil microbial biomass (ranging from 0.08 to 0.2%
of total C for the oldest soils). Table 4 presents the integration of AMF to the concept of
Integrated Soil Fertility Management (ISFM).

In bearing palms, 100g of AMF will be inoculated to the root zone of existing bearing
palms in combination to the application of Organic Soil Amendments (OSA) + Mineral
Fertilizers (MF). A number of 04 equidistant holes will be prepared where 25g of AMF
will be filled in every hole. The fertilization scheme aimed to replace ammonium sulfate
with organic soil amendments thereby promoting the bio-healthy coconut
agroecosystems.

The intermittent application of Organic Soil Amendments + Mineral Fertilizers will be

done in the 1st and 2nd year. AMF will be integrated in the 1st year of fertilizer application.
However, fertilizer application will be skipped in the 3rd year.

The virtual root system shall be assessed in the 2nd year thru soil sampling and laboratory
analysis. In the absence of virtual roots system, re-inoculation of AMF shall be done in
the 2nd year.

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 107

 Recommendation for Coconut
 Apply 100g/bearing palm plus the recommended fertilizer.
 Reapplication of AMF will be done in the absence of virtual root system.

F. Effect of Integrated Soil Fertility Management to the Yield of Bearing Pams

Coconut productivity is greatly affected by fertilization management. Coconut response
to fertilization can be assessed in terms of nut/tree/year, copra/nut and
copra/tree/year. The response of coconut to integrated soil fertility management is
shown in Figure 1. Yield increase ranged from 44.34% to 241.75% and 51.50% to 227.92%
in terms of nut/ha/year and copra/ha/year, respectively. Among the fertilizer
combinations, application of commercial Peat Soil + KCl had the highest yield increase in
nut production (241.75%) and copra yield (227.92%). While the lowest yield increased
was observed on the application of dried chicken manure + KCl with 44.34%%
(nut/ha/year) and 51.50% (copra/ha/year) higher compared to unfertilized palms.

The results revealed the importance of using different fertilizer sources to provide the
needed nutrients of coconut to increase its productivity. Organic soil amendments is
more effective if combined with Cl containing mineral fertilizer sources such as KCl. In
K-deficient soil, KCl must be used in combination with other fertilizer materials to
improve the K-content of the soil.

Yield increase (%) of coconut as response to integrated soil fertility management for K-
sufficient soils is shown in Figure 2. Yield increase ranged from 89.88% to 279.53% and
81.23% to 260.29% in terms of nut production and copra yield, respectively. In terms of

108 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL

yield production, the combination of commercial BOF + CS had the highest nut (279.53%)
and copra (260.29%) yield increase, respectively.

In general, organic soil amendments for coconut were more effective when combined
with Cl-containing mineral fertilizer. Fertilizer combinations resulted to more than 80%
yield increased over the unfertilized palms. In K-sufficient soil, common salt was

recommended as the cheapest source of chlorine for coconut.

CONCLUSION & RECOMMENDATION

The application of organic N containing fertilizer materials + KCl and Cl containing

mineral fertilizers to address N, K and Cl deficiencies generated yield increase that
ranged from 44.34% to 241.75% and 51.50% to 227.92% in terms of nut/ha/year and
copra/ha/year, respectively.

The application of organic- N containing fertilizer materials + Cl-containing mineral

fertilizers for K-sufficient soils resulted to a yield increase, which ranged from 89.88% to
279.53% and 81.23% to 260.29% in terms of nut production and copra yield, respectively.

The combined effect of organic soil amendments and mineral fertilizers reduced the
amount required of both fertilizer materials. Improved soil fertility management through
increased use of available organic soil amendments and improved farm management
practices can result in positive gains in farm productivity.

The most evident advantage of adopting fertilization management is in the increase in

yield that was realized.

PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL 109

 REFERENCES

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and agrispon as fertilizers for coconut seedlings. Proc. 14th Ann. Scientific
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Magat, S.S. 2006. Good Agricultural Practices in Coconut Production (GAP-COCONUT).

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110 PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY RESEARCH JOURNAL