Zamboanga City, Philippines [October 18, 2025] – The Ateneo de Zamboanga University, through its Center for Community Extension Services (CCES), continues to strengthen its commitment to sustainable and inclusive community development with the presentation of the CEST COCOVIDA Project: Coconut and Carabao Venture for Inclusive Development and Advancement to the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Regional Office No. IX Regional Technical Evaluation Committee (RTEC) held in La Paz, Zamboanga City.
The COCOVIDA Project focuses on transforming coconut waste into value-added products, reducing environmental impact while promoting economic empowerment among women and local farmers. Central to the initiative is the capacity-building of 40 coconut farmers in La Paz, who will be trained and equipped with technical skills, entrepreneurial competencies, and sustainable practices to maximize coconut resources and enhance livelihood opportunities.
Through these interventions, the project aims to position La Paz as a model community for sustainable and inclusive social entrepreneurship, founded on the principles of innovation, resilience, and collaboration.
The presentation was enriched by the participation of key partners and experts, including Ms. Charisa from DOST-CEST and Ms. Ethelin from Agricultores de La Paz, whose active engagement underscored the strong intersectoral collaboration behind the project. Their insights reaffirm the shared vision of transforming local communities through science, innovation, and partnership.
The COCOVIDA Project aligns closely with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) particularly SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) reinforcing the university’s commitment to advancing global sustainability through local action.
Through ongoing collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and community partners, the Ateneo de Zamboanga University, via CCES, reaffirms its dedication to fostering innovation-driven empowerment, environmental stewardship, and sustainable local livelihoods for the people of La Paz and beyond.
– Arjun P. Carolasdolasan