To set the example, he gradually converts his 50-hectare sugar plantation into a coconut farm. He believed that as a sugar planter himself, coconut has more economic potential compared to sugar.
He explained that sugar plantation requires many workers and needs huge capitals for fertilizers and worker's wages. Coconut plantation, however, uses less fertilizers and the farm can be used into inter-cropping purposes for additional income.
He further explained that while it is true that sugar plantation has bigger gross, much of the income goes to the expenses that result in small net income.
He said he has to lead by example to encourage farmers and planters to follow suit and may inspire them to plant more coconut trees.
Last month, several businessmen from Cebu visited the city to buy coconut shells and other parts to be used for fashion accessories.
Meanwhile, Reyes also lauded the provincial office of the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) in facilitating the release of payment checks to initial 10 coconut farmers in the city.
PCA provincial manager Brendan Trasmonte personally turned over the check as payment for their "participatory coconut-planting program".
The move is the first in Negros Oriental and Central Visayas where farmers had received their respective incentive under the said program.
Mayor Reyes said that there are good prospects for the coconut industry as there is now a high demand of oil in the world market. (EBS)
