By Kenneth Marcos 
New research to check if CFIDP programs truly reach coconut farmers
QUEZON CITY — In a small farming village in Quezon, coconut farmer Mang Resty wonders if government programs meant to support growers like him ever reach his community. He’s not alone. Across the country, many coconut farmers still struggle with low prices, outdated farming tools, and limited market access.
To help address these concerns, the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) has partnered with Pangasinan State University (PSU) to conduct a nationwide review of the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP)—a flagship program launched to uplift the lives of the country’s coconut farmers.
The Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was signed on September 16, 2025, at the PCA central office in Quezon City. The collaboration includes a ₱3.5 million research grant to support PSU’s independent assessment of the CFIDP.
Reviewing the Reach of Coconut Programs
The research project will run from September to December 2025 and aims to assess how well CFIDP programs are working on the ground. This includes looking into the distribution of resources, access to modern technology, institutional support, and the level of farmer involvement.
Researchers will use surveys, focus group discussions, and interviews with coconut farmers, PCA staff, and local stakeholders. The goal is to find out where the program is working, where it’s falling short, and what can be improved.
According to PCA Administrator and CEO Dr. Dexter R. Buted, who is also a former PSU president, the study will provide evidence-based insights to make sure programs are implemented more effectively and reach the intended beneficiaries.
“This collaboration with PSU is to ensure that programs reach our coconut farmers effectively and sustainably,” said Dr. Buted during the signing ceremony, which also marked his birthday and a visit from a PSU delegation.
Support from National Leadership
Dr. Buted said the review aligns with the directives of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., who has consistently pushed for improved support for the agriculture sector, and DA Secretary Francisco “Kiko” Tiu Laurel Jr., who is leading key reforms in farming productivity and farmer welfare.
PSU’s Role in Coconut Research
For PSU, the project is a chance to show how academic research can support real-world development, especially in agriculture.
PSU President Dr. Elbert M. Galas reaffirmed the university’s commitment to delivering independent, high-quality research that contributes to one of the country’s most important rural sectors.
“We are committed to helping ensure that science and data guide how our country supports coconut farmers,” Dr. Galas said.
Why This Matters
The CFIDP was created following the release of the Coconut Farmers and Industry Trust Fund, a multibillion-peso fund designed to compensate farmers affected by the decades-long coco levy issue. The plan outlines support for farm productivity, replanting, processing, training, and market development.
With over 2.8 million coconut farmers in the Philippines, mostly from poor and rural areas, ensuring that government support reaches them is essential for national food security and rural development.
Towards Inclusive Growth in the Coconut Industry
As the country continues to rely on coconut as one of its top agricultural exports, ensuring that farmers benefit from reforms remains a top priority.
This PCA-PSU partnership seeks not only to track progress but also to bridge the gap between policy and reality. With better data and feedback from farmers themselves, future programs under the CFIDP can be made more responsive and inclusive.
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