Farmers in Bukidnon have been introduced to an innovative farming approach that combines coconut farming with goat raising.

Noriel Kris Santillan, Training specialist at the Agricultural Training Institute Northern Mindanao (ATI-10), said in a statement Friday that farmers in Kalilangan, Bukidnon, underwent a weeklong orientation to learn the cost-benefits of integrating these two agricultural practices.

“Participants are expected to effectively implement the best practices in native goat production, enhancing their farming capabilities and promoting sustainable agricultural practices in their communities,” she said.

The farmers, members of the Kalilangan Coconut Farmers Association, participated in theoretical and hands-on workshops that demonstrated how coconut trees could provide sustenance to goats, improving their overall health.

Val Nino Batistil, farm manager and co-owner of Val-Marden’s Integrated Coconut Farm and Livestock in Kadingilan, shared his expertise in integrating coconut and goat farming with the participants.

Last week’s “Masaganang Cocobuhayan” expo also inspired commitments from agriculture entrepreneurs.

ATI National Director Remelyn Recoter emphasized that various coconut products could benefit farmers and provide valuable networking opportunities for value chain players.

“We are here to promote these products for the benefit not only of the public but also the producers, the coconut producers themselves, and the processors,” she said. (PNA)