Laoag: More local government units (LGUs) in Ilocos Norte have joined the massive coconut planting program (MCPP), seen as an alternative way to boost income and food security. In Laoag, the City Agriculture Office announced on Monday the availability of almost 7,000 high-yielding coconut varieties for distribution to interested growers.

According to Philippines News Agency, Engr. Sheila Marie Opelac stated that everyone can request planting materials, and the Philippine Coconut Authority, together with the City Agriculture Office, will validate these requests. In partnership with the PCA, a seed nut nursery has been established in the city to support the national government's coconut revolution program.

Interested groups or individuals are encouraged to coordinate with city agricultural extension workers or visit the Office of the City Agriculturist in Barangay Camangaan to check the requirements and obtain the free seed nuts. Recipients are expected to attend an orientation or technical briefing to ensure proper planting and fertilizer application.

The towns of Burgos, Pagudpud, Currimao, and Batac City have already started planting more coconut trees within their areas. The nationwide coconut planting initiative is part of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s vision to plant 100 million coconut trees by 2028. This initiative is a priority under the administration's agricultural modernization and food security agenda.

The PCA is leading the nationwide MCPP as a national renewal movement aimed at empowering coconut farmers and restoring productivity to one of the country's most vital agricultural sectors.