Agusan VCO Processing Plant to Benefit Coconut Farmers in Caraga Region

Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) Administrator Benjamin Madrigal, Jr. led last week on August 24 the handing over of the P17-million virgin coconut oil plant in Barangay Libas in Jabonga, Agusan del Norte. The plant is expected to benefit coconut farmers including from neighboring areas in the Caraga Region.  The plant was received by the 147-strong Libas Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative (LFMPC) which will manage the VCO plant.  The PCA in Caraga Region (PCA-13), together with the Jabonga town government, will monitor the operations of the plant.
The VCO plant has a capacity of processing some 10,000 coconuts per day and can produce around 867 liters of VCO daily.  Aside from VCO, the plant will also produce coconut juice, coconut aminos, and vinegar.  Market outlets were earlier established by the cooperative in the different towns of Agusan del Norte, Surigao del Sur, and even in Bohol province.  Coconuts for processing will be supplied not only by its members, but also by other coconut farmers and organizations in Agusan del Norter and nearby provinces