Lanao Del Norte Agro-Industrial Strategic Development Plan

The Philippines is a significant player in the global coconut market and holds a significant share in the global abaca market. However, the country faces challenges such as stagnant supply bases, lower yields due to traditional methods, and adopting mechanized processes, limiting its potential growth.

As a distinguished hub for coconut copra production and virgin coconut oil manufacturing as well as being a leading producer of abaca, Lanao Del Norte is envisioned to fulfill its role as the gateway for agricultural development in Northern Mindanao and enhance the country's global reputation in coconut and abaca production. Agriculture accounts for 52.1% of the Province’s land use.

The Province is also known as the regional economic center of Northern Mindanao. Its location along Iligan Bay and Panguil Bay gives it access to navigational routes, making it a potential economic hub. To help achieve this, an Agro-Industrial Strategic Plan was created. The Province established the Metro Iligan Regional Agro-Industrial Center (MIRAIC), a 77.8-hectare industrial park, to drive the region’s overall development by harnessing the strengths of agriculture and industry.

The Provincial Government of Lanao Del Norte and PALAFOX crafted the Lanao Del Norte Agro-Industrial Strategic Development Plan for the MIRAIC. This encompasses formulating strategies, industry positioning, and identifying suitable spatial frameworks that harmonize agriculture, agro-industry, community development, and ecological sustainability. 

The Strategic Development Plan also aims to attract local and international investments that will boost the Province’s economy. The other main objectives of the Agro-Industrial Strategic Development Plan include, among others:

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1. Assessing site hazard susceptibility and recommending prevention and mitigation measures,
2. Identifying needed infrastructure to accommodate growth and utilities demand,
3. Conducting situational and financial analyses as part of the Industry Marketing and Positioning Plan, and
4. Involving key strategic partners and stakeholders in establishing the agro-industrial development track of Lanao Del Norte

Spatial strategies for the MIRAIC were proposed to optimize the immense agro-industrial potential of the region while minimizing environmental impact and fostering socio-economic growth. 

The MIRAIC aims to be a leading global processing facility, meeting market demands with high-quality, affordable products. It pledges to stay at the forefront of food processing technology, utilizing proven methods in plant and machinery to achieve its vision and mission. 

The following are the identified potential improvements in the MIRAIC value chain, which can significantly boost its standing as a leading producer of coconut and abaca:

1. Expansion of coconut seedlings and nursery gardens to support farmers with high-quality planting materials, aiding the growth of the coconut industry.

2. Coconut and abaca intercropping to enhance land productivity, diversify income, and sustain both value chains.

3. Investment in R&D centers to foster disease studies, crop management systems, and new crop uses for sustainable development.

4. Training centers for agro-industrialization to enhance farmer and industry skills, promoting efficient production practices.

5. Integrated facilities for value chain coverage to support industry growth and diversification.

6. One-stop business centers to streamline operations and assist stakeholders in 

navigating regulatory matters and financing.

Proposed development components include: 

• The Agri-Tourism Experience Hub will offer exhibition spaces and accommodation facilities. Farm resorts and an adventure park will provide opportunities for agri-tourism and adventure tourism experiences, such as farm-to-table offerings. Surrounded by research and training areas and coconut production and processing facilities, the hub will serve as a vibrant gateway to the region’s agricultural landscape.
• The Innovation in the Industrial Utilities sector is tailored for advanced food production and processing. Specifically designed for coconut and banana operations, this sector will accommodate warehousing, storage, and a halal processing facility. There will also be quality employee housing, utilities, and a well-buffered provincial ecological waste processing facility.
• The industrial estate also has a Knowledge Hub for agro-industry, housing research, and training facilities, setting the grounds for collaboration between academe and industry. Supported by funding from national agencies and civil society organizations, these engagements will underscore the MIRAIC’s commitment to technical education and innovation.
• The Locally-Driven Community Initiatives sector in the eastern wing will retain space for abaca and cardava banana production and processing. Mixed-use residential and commercial structures, retail areas, and recreational spaces are proposed to enhance community well-being. Additionally, proposed medical and police facilities will ensure the safety and well-being of both the MIRAIC and nearby communities.