Strengthening the Cooperative Development of Coconut Farmers in Relation to Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan Programs and Services of the Department of Trade and Industry Laguna: Basis For Redesigning the Program

The study examines the status of the programs and services under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) undertaken by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Laguna province, Philippines, with a particular focus on their cooperative development. It entails to find out the profile of the CFIDP beneficiaries, status of the implementation of the program, and the status of the programs being implemented by the DTI. In addition, ithis study aims to find whether the perception of the employees is the same as with the beneficiaries. The findings reveal demographic trends among respondents and significant disparities in perceptions between beneficiaries and employees. While beneficiaries perceive DTIs programs as somewhat effective, somewhat accessible, somewhat sustainable, and somewhat satisfied, employees rate them all highly, indicating a potential gap in understanding and expectations. Based on the results, the study concludes that no statistical differences were found in the variables of effectiveness, accessibility, sustainability, and satisfaction when grouped by demographic profiles, except for income level, which showed differences in effectiveness and accessibility. On the other hand, significant differences were observed between the perceptions of beneficiaries and employees across strategic planning, product development, and trade fairs, except for seminars, where no statistical difference was found. Thus, it is recommended that the DTI may refine communication strategies, enhance program offerings, and engage stakeholders effectively. Further research replication in other provinces is encouraged to validate findings and ensure their applicability across diverse settings.