PCA urges NCFRS use

Baler, Aurora — The Philippine Coconut Authority has urged coconut farmers of the province to register themselves at the National Coconut Farmers Registry System for them to become qualified beneficiaries of the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan and other programs of the agency.

According to PCA Provincial Coconut Development manager Juan Milar, the registration is in lie with Republic Act 11524 or the Coconut Farmers and Industry Trust Fund Act that aims to establish a coconut industry in the country utilizing coco levy funds.

Qualified beneficiaries of the NCFRS include the farm owner, seasonal worker, and renters of coconut farms five hectares or less.

Some of the privileges that the registered coconut farmers can avail is the college scholarship, medical assistance, training and seminars, capital loans, and crop insurance.

Part of the CFIDP program include the distribution of hybrid coconut seedlings, and boost the community-based livelihood such as intercropping, local product development, and livestock farming in coconut farms.

Milar said that there are 15,000 coconut farmers or 58 percent from the 26,000 targeted farmers are already registered at the NCFRS, adding that those who want to register can submit their registration form at their office or at their official website at www.pca.gov.ph.