SDGCoco Project concludes after four transformative years, empowering coconut farmers

The Development Cooperation Project “Sustainable Development and Good Agricultural Practices in the Philippine Coconut Supply Chain (SDGCoco)” celebrated the accomplishment of its fruitful 4-year journey with a Closing Ceremony and Networking Event in Daet, Camarines Norte. Bringing together stakeholders from across the coconut sector, the event honored the collective achievements of this public-private partnership between the Government of Germany through GIZ, Franklin Baker Company of the Philippines, Symrise, The Absolut Company, and the Department of Agriculture- through the Philippine Coconut Authority (DA-PCA) and the Agricultural Training Institute (DA-ATI). The SDGCoco Project, dedicated to improving the livelihoods of coconut farmers in Laguna, Quezon, and Camarines Norte, has made notable strides toward improved socioeconomic and environmental sustainability in the Philippine coconut industry. Watch the Same-day Edit video here. 

A Celebration of Accomplishments: In the opening preliminaries, farmer associations made a ceremonial entrance, setting a powerful tone for the day. This was followed by a moving performance by the Tanghal Kulturang Cam Norteño Chorale and the singing of the Philippine national anthem.

Key Remarks and Recognitions: The formal program opened with remarks from the Country Director of GIZ Philippines and Pacific Island Countries, Immanuel Gebhardt, joined by Maria Carlotta Lim, Marketing Manager at Franklin Baker Company of the Philippines, and Atty. Marlon Terrado as Acting Regional Manager for Philippine Coconut Authority Region V. Afterwards, Cornelia Skokov, Chief Advisor and Coordinator of Development Partnerships in Agriculture with the Private Sector (AgriDPP) at GIZ, took attendees through SDGCoco’s journey during the last 4 years, highlighting the project’s transformative achievements on capacity development, enhanced coconut-based demonstration farms, on strengthening farmer associations, and partnerships and cooperation with public partners.

Celebrating Collaborative Success: At the heart of the event was the turnover of knowledge products developed through SDGCoco, marking a legacy of shared learning and sustainable agricultural practices. Following this, a series of awards and appreciations were presented to public partners, celebrating their contributions and commitment to the project’s goals. The recognition ceremony culminated in a special segment honoring farmers who demonstrated excellence in adopting sustainable practices. Namely, there were farmer champions, golden age award, and young farmer excellence award. The morning program concluded with a final project video, a fitting tribute to the SDGCoco journey and its contributions to the coconut industry.

Knowledge-Sharing Sessions and the Launch of a New Project: Attendees participated in sofa sessions that underscored the project’s commitment to knowledge-sharing and cooperation with private partners. Moderated by Franklin Baker and GIZ, Ma. Liela Reyes Gallargan and Patricia Rogriguez, respectively, these sessions focused on capacity building and future collaboration, paving the way for continued development in the sector. The highlight of the afternoon was the official announcement of a new project, piloting Regenerative Agriculture, Enhanced Business Skills for Associations and Occupational Health and Safety for Coconut farming, a forward-looking initiative aimed at building on the successful achievements of SDG Coco and exploring new paths for coconut sector development. Cornelia Skokov closed the session with an optimistic message, encouraging attendees to embrace the promising possibilities that lie ahead. 

Evening Networking and Celebration: The evening festivities opened with a networking dinner where partners, farmers, and guests gathered to enjoy a relaxed evening of food, games, and camaraderie. Tomas Cabuenos Jr., Senior Advisor, GIZ, welcomed everyone with opening remarks, setting an inviting tone for a night of celebration. The evening program organized by the Philippine Coconut Authority Region IV-A and V featured interactive presentations and cultural intermissions, with games like “Ping Pong,” “Ring Your Prize,” and the Filipino favorite “Pabitin,” adding a spirit of playfulness and team spirit.

A Legacy of Sustainable Growth and Future Prospects: The SDGCoco Project’s closing ceremony was a powerful testament to the partnerships and dedication that fueled its success, supporting coconut farmers and advancing sustainable practices across the Philippine coconut industry. As SDG Coco transitions into a new project, it leaves a legacy of positive results and a foundation for continued growth, inspiring progress in sustainable agriculture and community resilience for years to come.