In 2006, our family acquired an agricultural land planted with coconuts and bananas. However, the production was low because the land had long been applied with chemical inputs that eroded its natural fertility. Both crops showed signs of nutrient deficiency. We then decided to convert the land into an organic farm.
All the crops were applied with organic inputs that were produced out of the materials that were available on the farm. We planted nitrogen-fixing plants as regular sources of nitrogen for the crops. We also diversified the crops, apart from bananas and coconuts we planted fruit trees, vegetables, root crops, and herbs. We integrated livestock that became our steady source of organic inputs.
In less than two years, we were able to increase production and the income twofold. We generated regular earnings from coconuts and bananas and we got a steady supply of essential foods from our livestock, vegetables, and fruits. The once barren land is now covered with lush vegetation.
The onset of the financial crisis in 2008 pulled down the price of the coconut. The price of the whole nut dropped from P8.00 to P3.00 per kilo. This situation compelled us to look for viable options to make coconut farming a doable venture. The production of coconut sugar was seen as the most viable alternative because of its health benefits and income potentials.