By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines is on track to register another record year for coconut exports, with industry officials projecting overseas sales to surpass last year’s historic earnings despite concerns over the effects of the expected El Niño phenomenon.
The Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) said robust global demand for coconut-based products is expected to offset production challenges brought about by prolonged dry weather.
PCA Head Executive Assistant Joseph Cezar Deligero expressed confidence that export revenues this year will exceed the $3.57 billion generated in 2025, the highest on record for the country’s coconut industry.
While acknowledging the risks posed by El Niño, Deligero said government interventions are being intensified to cushion its impact on coconut production.
The PCA recalled that the previous El Niño episode led to an estimated 20-percent decline in coconut output, highlighting the importance of early mitigation efforts to protect farmers and sustain production.
To prepare for the anticipated dry spell, the agency has accelerated the distribution of quality planting materials to coconut-growing communities nationwide and strengthened coordination with cooperatives and partner agencies implementing the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP).
Authorities are likewise expanding the use of solar-powered drip irrigation systems to help maintain adequate water supply in plantations expected to experience reduced rainfall.
Beyond water shortages, the PCA is also monitoring the possibility of increased pest infestations, particularly the spread of the coconut scale insect (cocolisap), which tends to proliferate during periods of extreme heat.
The agency has stepped up its integrated pest management program through regular field surveillance, biological control measures, and technical assistance to farmers to minimize potential crop losses.
Despite the climate-related challenges, the PCA remains optimistic that sustained international demand, coupled with government support and climate-resilient farming initiatives, will enable the Philippines to retain its position as one of the world’s leading exporters of coconut products while achieving another milestone in export earnings.
ia/xf
