The Context of the Family-Farm School
The
province of Northern Samar has a vast coconut plantation. It is the
predominant source of economic
activity of majority of farmers. Despite this rich resource, still
farmers remain low in terms of farm productivity and income due
partly to over-dependence on coconut as a mono-crop. Meanwhile,
there is a resurgence of coconut production, particularly with the
high price of copra (current price is Php22.00 per kilo - variable),
and the potential for coco coir production in the international
front. Of importance is the expressed concern of the
Department of Agriculture to
meet long-term demand for coconut as biodiesel and other
by-products. The School, to a limited extent, may partly contribute
to this effort.