PCA Seeks P1.26 Billion More for Coconut Replanting Program

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) is seeking P1.26 billion in additional funding to meet its coconut-replanting target this year to replace aging trees. The agency said that it needs to plant about 8.5 million coconut seedlings to meet its 25.4 million target for 2026. Its current budget will only allow the planting of 16.85 million trees. Full funding of the massive replanting program will allow the PCA to remain on schedule to hit its goal to plant 100 million coconut trees by 2028. “It is an investment in the future of our coconut farmers and the entire industry. Every palm planted means higher incomes, stronger rural communities and a more competitive Philippine coconut sector,” PCA administrator and CEO Dexter Buted said. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said rebuilding the coconut industry requires long-term investments allowing lasting benefits for the industry. “Higher productivity means higher incomes, while a stronger coconut industry supports jobs, exports and food security. Every peso invested today helps build a more resilient agricultural economy for tomorrow,” Tiu Laurel said. The PCS has also continued the implementation of the program despite the lack of funding through participatory planting projects, coconut hybridization, partnerships with local governments and community-led programs. Seedlings for replanting are also housed in nurseries to secure more supply in the next planting cycle. The PCA said that survival rates, growth and long-term productivity would serve as its key performance indicator as new coconut trees may take several years before generating real income for farmers.