The National Coconut Research Center–Visayas (NCRC-V) conducted a facility assessment and training for the Kilusan ng mga Maliliit na Magniniyog ng Pilipinas (KAMMPIL) Agri-Coop in Jaro, Leyte. The activity aimed to help the cooperative improve its desiccated coconut production, product quality, and processing system.

The facility assessment was organized by NCRC-V with the assistance of the VSU Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering (DABE), headed by Engr. Nilo Leorna. The team inspected the cooperative’s processing facility, equipment, and current production practices for desiccated coconut.

During the assessment, the team identified areas that could be improved to make the processing system more efficient and help the cooperative produce better-quality desiccated coconut. The team also provided recommendations on proper processing practices and the improvement of the facility.

Following the assessment, the NCRC-V team conducted a training on coconut water vinegar production to further improve the existing process of KAMMPIL Agri-Coop. Since coconut water vinegar was already being produced by the cooperative, improved processing methods and practices were introduced to enhance the production process and achieve better and more consistent product quality.

Furthermore, the training introduced the participants to the basic steps and proper practices in producing vinegar from coconut water, including the importance of proper handling and processing to achieve good product quality.

The activity was conducted in partnership with the VSU Department of Business Management, VSU Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 8.

This endeavor attested the importance of maximizing the use of the coconut by turning its by-products into useful and marketable products. Through technical assistance and training, NCRC-V and its partner agencies continue to support coconut farmers and cooperatives in improving their processing practices, developing value-added products, and creating additional livelihood opportunities.

NCRC-V remains committed to providing technologies and technical support that can help coconut communities improve their products, reduce waste, and make better use of the resources available to them.