The Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) is spearheading the holding of the 7th National Coconut Festival at the SM Mega Trade Hall 2, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City from August 7-10, 2008, this is according to PCA Administrator Oscar G. Garin.

"We now call on all coconut industry stakeholders to fully participate in the exhibits, trade fairs and various special events lined up" Garin declared highlighting the importance of the festival in offering an excellent venue for coconut processors in showcasing their new products and innovative breakthroughs and in establishing market linkages both locally and globally.

According to the administrator, the coconut festival is part of the celebration for the 22nd National Coconut Week as mandated by Presidential Proclamation No. 142. He bared that this year´s theme is "Kasaganaan at Kaunlaran sa Pinagyamang Niyugan" which is in line with the vision and objectives of the PCA’s centerpiece National Coconut Productivity Program (NCPP).

"The theme highlights the importance of increasing the fruit bearing capacity of coconut trees through fertilization and of increasing coconut farm productivity through intercropping of various food crops" Garin explained highlighting the immense multiplier effect of increased coconut production. "With increased production, we will have more raw materials for processing, more coconut products to sell locally and abroad, and thus more opportunities for wealth generation".

Garin likewise highlighted the huge potentials that idle coconut lands will give to achieving food security amidst the growing global scarcity for staples. "Our Plowable Intercropping Project aims to turn coconut farms into veritable food mine by intercropping various food crops" he said.

The administrator concluded that the vigorous implementation of the NCPP´s components, namely the Plowable Intercropping Project, the Salt Fertilization Project and the Participatory Coconut Planting Project – provides a most fitting backdrop for this years´ coconut week celebration. "We are celebrating for the coconut and at the same time are working for the industry’s expansion and development".

Interested exhibitors and demo/seminar/business opportunities presenters may now contact the Coconut Festival Secretariat through Ms. Maribel Sahagun and Lea Lilia Africa at Telephone Nos. 928-5401 to 08 local 412; Laura Payupay and Conchita Cruz at local 504; and Gilda Laurente at local 301. The PCA is coordinating with Philippine Trade and Investment Centers in Philippine delegations overseas to give the events exposure in the global arena.

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