RESORTS IN DINADIAWAN: They Can Create Farming Opportunities
Wherever there are people going there, there are opportunities for farmers to make money. We just came from what could become a major tourist destination in the North, and we could imagine the farm products that could become bestsellers there.

We are referring to the more than 20 beach resorts in Dinadiawan, a northern barangay of Dipaculao town in Aurora province. We are sure the place will become a major tourist destination because the beaches are endowed with fine white sand and the waters are excellent for swimming and other activities.



Now, what are the opportunities for the local farmers? Well, Dipaculao has plenty of tall coconuts. These are good sources of “buko” for the tourists. What could be developed now is to plant dwarf varieties under the tall trees. There are varieties that have sweet water and aromatic meat like those from Thailand. Planting materials are now available although in somewhat limited numbers but these could eventually become more available later.

Fruits that can also be grown in spaces under coconuts that receive adequate sunlight could become a good source of income for the local residents or even outsiders who would invest in planting fruiting plants. Papaya is one good candidate because it has a short gestation period. There are low-growing hybrids like Red Lady, Sinta, Red Royale and some others that could be planted between coconuts.
Banana should be another good choice. Dr. Rene Sumaoang who was with us during the trip said that the Mama Sita would make a very good choice. It has big trunk which can withstand winds better than other varieties. And the fruit is also nice to eat. It is sweet and it can be boiled, eaten fresh, made into “maruya”, barbecue and some other preparations.

Jackfruit is another fruit that can be produced that will have a market in the resorts. The fruits can be served fresh or processed into sweets. The pulp can be used in making “halo-halo”, turon and other snack foods. The latexless jackfruit will grow between coconut trees. It usually starts bearing fruit as early as the third year if given the right care. The young fruits can also be cooked with coconut milk as vegetable.

Sweet corn could also be a favorite of tourists in the resorts. If there are enterprising farmers, they can plant small patches on a staggered basis. They could plant only what they think they can sell because sweet corn is highly perishable.
Culinary herbs can also be produced locally to make health drinks. Tarragon, for instance, can make a refreshing tea. Fresh leaves can be harvested and placed in a cup of boiling water. Presto, one can enjoy the special flavor of the tarragon. Ginger, lemon grass and turmeric will grow under the coconut trees. And these could make healthful drinks, too.

And how about livestock and poultry? Free-range native chickens will certainly be well loved by customers if available.

And how about the supply of rice? Well, there is a cooperative that recently received grants for a rice processing center that include facilities for milling and drying. According to Eugene Gabriel who is involved in managing the cooperative, they will promote rice production in the area that will supply the needs not only of Dipaculao but also other neighboring towns.
