PCA Teams Up with Japanese Conglomerate for Organic Fertilizers

The Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) has teamed up with Japanese conglomerate Swung Inc. to enhance cooperation in testing and regulating organic fertilizers based on Japanese technology. Under a non-binding agreement, they will conduct field trials in select coconut plantations, design trial methodologies and analyze soils and leaves before and after fertilizer application.

In a statement, PCA said organic fertilizers will first be applied to coconut plantations and before expanding it to other crops. PCA also noted that the technologies that will be used in this initiative are protected under a patent of Swung’s partner company, Kira Shoten Co. Ltd., for Bokashi fertilizer and solution. 
 
“The PCA will continue to pursue modern technologies that can uplift the livelihood of coconut famers, as long as they undergo thorough evaluation and comply with standards,” PCA Administrator Dexter Buted said. These follows previous talks between PCA and Swung, where they tackled initial tests on organic fertilizers made from materials such as coconut residues, sugarcane waste and beer byproducts. The PCA is considering the next steps for the wider adoption of the technology.  

It also revisited foreign firms’ interest in producing SAF derived from coconut and other crops. Swung hopes to work with local biofuel players and build SAF production facilities in the Philippines.  The PCA said the collaboration with Swung is expected to bolster the amended Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) covering the years 2024 to 2028 and its five-year strategic development plan.