Agay‑ayan Multi‑Purpose Cooperative (Agay‑ayan MPC), headquartered in Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental, Philippines, is a farmer-led cooperative established in 1992. Over the past three decades, the cooperative has played a vital role in improving rural livelihoods through the sustainable production and commercialization of agricultural goods, most notably organic coconut sugar. Agay‑ayan MPC integrates inclusive agribusiness practices with community development, impacting hundreds of farming families in Northern Mindanao.
Core Business and Specialization
The cooperative specializes in the cultivation, processing, and marketing of organic and locally grown agricultural products. Agay‑ayan MPC’s flagship product, organic coconut sugar, has garnered national recognition for its low glycemic index and export-grade quality.
Product Portfolio
- Organic Coconut Sugar: Produced using traditional sap collection and natural dehydration techniques. Certified organic and known for its nutritional properties.
- Coco Honey: A natural sweetener derived from coconut nectar.
- Milled Rice: Sourced from local rice farms and sold in bulk to communities and institutional buyers.
- High-Value Vegetables: Includes tomatoes, eggplants, and leafy greens cultivated using sustainable farming techniques.
- Livestock Products: Chicken, pork, and eggs from free-range and backyard-raised animals.
Market Position and Target Audience
Agay‑ayan MPC primarily serves:
- Local markets and cooperatives in Northern Mindanao.
- Government procurement programs (e.g., school feeding programs).
- NGOs and social enterprises supporting organic farming.
- Specialty food buyers seeking sustainable and traceable sources of organic sweeteners.
Their coconut sugar has also gained traction in the health food segment and export development programs.
Business Capabilities
- Organic Certification: Products are certified under national and international organic standards.
- Processing Infrastructure: Facilities for coconut sap collection, evaporation, and packaging.
- Membership Base: Over 200 farmer-members involved in coconut farming, rice cultivation, and vegetable production.
- Capacity Building: Offers internal training on sustainable agriculture, post-harvest handling, and cooperative management.
Certifications and Compliance
- Certified Organic Coconut Sugar (Philippine National Standards)
- Compliant with Good Agricultural Practices (GAP)
- Registered under the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA)
- Recognized by the Department of Agriculture and Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA)
These certifications enable Agay‑ayan MPC to participate in institutional procurement and export development projects.
Financial and Operational Insights
Agay‑ayan MPC has secured multiple grants and livelihood assistance programs from national agencies such as:
- Department of Agriculture (DA)
- Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA)
- Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR)
These funds have been invested in post-harvest equipment, cooperative facilities, and farmer education. The cooperative reported consistent revenue from bulk coconut sugar orders, particularly from health food enterprises and local traders.
International Shipments and Trade Activity
Though primarily focused on domestic distribution, Agay‑ayan MPC’s organic coconut sugar has been promoted through export readiness initiatives by the DTI and PCA. The cooperative has potential to scale toward export markets in Japan and North America, where demand for low-GI sweeteners is increasing.
Achievements and Recognition
- Recipient of PCA grant for organic coconut sugar development.
- Partnered with NGOs for sustainable agriculture training and livelihood support.
- Recognized by the Philippine Information Agency for contributions to local food security and community empowerment.
- Listed as a model cooperative for organic agriculture in Northern Mindanao.
Testimonials
While formal testimonials are limited, community beneficiaries and partner agencies consistently highlight:
- “A grassroots cooperative that uplifts the farming community.”
- “Their coconut sugar is high quality, chemical-free, and suitable for health-conscious buyers.”
- “The cooperative is well-organized and committed to sustainable development.”
Conclusion
Agay‑ayan Multi‑Purpose Cooperative exemplifies the power of community-driven agribusiness in advancing rural livelihoods and sustainable farming. Through its dedication to organic production, fair trade, and cooperative development, Agay‑ayan MPC continues to deliver meaningful impact in Mindanao’s agricultural landscape while positioning itself for broader market expansion.