Davao del Sur coconut farmers, through a Science and Technology-based (S&T) Community-based Farm (STCBF) project, were equipped on the application of S&T to increase coco sap production, processing, and marketing cocosugar in the local and international markets.
The project, which had the title, STCBF on Coco Sap Production and TechnoMart Projects: Propelling the Cocosugar Industry Development in Davao del Sur, was implemented by the Southern Philippines Agri-Business and Marine and Aquatic School of Technology (SPAMAST) and funded by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD).
The project posed a 43.64% increase in the number of accredited and organized coco sap gatherers. The coco sap gatherers were trained on fertilizer application, good manufacture practice (GMP), and food safety, while the adopters were trained on initial sap boiling. Moreover, a total of 1,096 coconut trees were rehabilitated using vermicast and salt.
The products were promoted in 19 trade fairs and exhibits wherein promotional materials and product brochures were distributed. Promotion through TV programs and radio were also conducted.
Currently, the cocosugar products are distributed to the United States, Australia, Germany, and United Kingdom.
The cocosugar industry is considered a sunrise industry and expected to be the new superstar product in the export industry, as stated during the 1st National Coconut Sap Sugar Congress. The product has low Glycemic Index (GI) compared with other natural sweeteners that are sugarcane-based. Low GI products can help control diabetes mellitus, reduce bad cholesterol, and maintain weight.
The major drivers of cocosugar include the growing awareness for healthy product options and increasing consumer preferences for high quality and traceable products.
The project is one of the finalists in the development category of the 2016 National Symposium on Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (NSAARRD).
Initiated by the DOST-PCAARRD, NSAARRD recognizes the outstanding contributions of individuals and institutions in improving the state of agri-aqua research and development in the country.
Held on July 27 at the DOST-PCAARRD Complex in Los Baños, Laguna, NSAARRD served as one of the highlights of the celebration of the National Science and Technology Week (NSTW).