An increase in the demand for coco coir products in the international market has geared up the operation of a company in Bacong, Oriental Negros, the Philippine Coconut Administration provincial office said yesterday. PCA Provincial Manager Brendan Trasmonte said geo textiles are now becoming the important material in preventing soil erosion.

The coco coir is a fiber from coconut husk that is made into rope for a geo-textile commonly used in China and other Asian countries.

A geo textile company owner from Albay, Dr. Justino Arbolida, made an on site visit in Bacong and was interested in buying the coco coir for his international market.

Arbolida shared some technical assistance in modifying the mechanical system for a more refined coco coir product.

He also promised to bring in his 50 kilo capacity bailing machine used in packing the coir.

Trasmonte said the company is buying the coco coir at P 9 per kilo and the coco coir rope for P 27 per kilo.

He added that the company of Arbolida is extending its market from coconut rich provinces in the region.

Trasmonte said the province is still open to other investors who are willing to provide technical assistance and help the sustainability of the industry. A coco coir plant can be set up in the Pamplona, Guihulngan, Bindoy and Bayawan City, that can be utilized as collection points.

Pamplona has the biggest coconut production while Negros Oriental is the number one coconut producer in Central Visayas with a total coconut farm area of 80,518 hectares.*MA

back to top