The Corazon Catmon Farmers Association (Cocafa) has evolved from a small organization into one of the most active grassroots associations in Catmon town since its establishment on March 23, 2023.
In the coastal barangay of Corazon, where most residents rely on fishing, there was initially little interest in farming. However, through unity and support from the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS), community interest in farming as an additional livelihood gradually increased.
Today, Cocafa has 68 members and is accredited by the local government and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). Members say their experience as Kalahi-CIDSS volunteers greatly helped in developing leadership, project management, and community organizing skills.
“What we learned from Kalahi is that development is possible if the community is united,” a member said.
The association is also active in the operations and maintenance of sub-projects such as drainage systems, roads, and a daycare center. In 2023, they took over the management of a PHP 1.7 million daycare center expansion and rehabilitation project.
Initially, it was difficult for the group to attract other residents to join because many doubted the potential of farming in a coastal barangay. But through livelihood programs and farming initiatives, more families saw its benefits.
Members also learned modern farming techniques, farm management, and product development. Above all, it strengthened their unity as a community.
Although the organization faced challenges, members continued to work together to sustain their livelihoods. Their efforts paid off when they won second place at the Catmon Agro Fair.
“Even though we are a coastal barangay, we proved that we can still succeed through unity and hard work,” another member added.
Cocafa continues to support Kalahi-CIDSS projects and has become a symbol of volunteerism, community ownership, and community-driven development in Barangay Corazon.
