The Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) is eyeing to distribute and plant 780,000 coconut seedlings in Negros Island Region (NIR) in 2026.

The agency’s goal was discussed by PCA-Negros Island Region (NIR) Manager Aurora Paquibot during the opening of the region’s 1st Coconut Philippines Trade Fair organized by the Department of Trade and Industry, at SM City Bacolod North Block on Monday.

“In the NIR, our target this year is to distribute and plant 780,000 coconut seedlings through various modalities. We are also allocating around 30,000 bags of fertilizer for the entire region,” Paquibot said.

She added that efforts to control the spread of coconut scale insect, also known as “cocolisap,” also continues.

Set until Oct. 18, the 1st Coconut Philippines Trade Fair-NIR is participated by 36 exhibitors, including “cocopreneurs,” coconut farmers and coconut-based enterprises in Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental and Siquijor.

Paquibot said that as the PCA continues to promote and expand markets for Philippine coconut products, the agency also recognizes the importance of ensuring a sustainable and sufficient supply of raw materials to support the growing requirements of coconut processors, manufacturers, exporters and other industry stakeholders.

As such, the PCA is embarking on a massive coconut planting and replanting program, being complemented by an intensified coconut fertilization strategy, to increase coconut production, improve farm productivity, rehabilitate aging and unproductive coconut farms, and secure a reliable and sustainable supply of coconuts for the years ahead.

Paquibot said these initiatives reflect PCA’s commitment to strengthening the entire coconut value chain-from production at the farm level to processing, product development, marketing and export.

“We believe that a thriving coconut industry must be anchored on productive farms, empowered coconut farmers, and a sustainable supply of quality raw materials,” she said.

Paquibot also exhorted coconut farmers and entrepreneurs in their commitment toward building a stronger and more competitive industry.

“Just as the MassKara Festival reflects the strength and determination of the Filipino people, our coconut farmers and entrepreneurs also continue to demonstrate perseverance, creativity, and commitment toward building a stronger and more competitive industry,” she added. (PNA)