JOSE ABAD SANTOS, Davao Occidental — The local government of Jose Abad Santos has secured ₱680,000 in funding from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) XI to launch a community-based project that transforms discarded coconut husks into valuable products. The initiative aims to create livelihood opportunities while strengthening disaster resilience in the municipality.
From Agricultural Waste to Economic Asset
The project, called SMART-BUNOT, stands for Sustainable Management and Adaptive Resilience Technologies for Bio-based Utilization and Nurturing of Organic Technologies. It will establish a processing facility that converts coconut husks, locally known as bunot, into coco coir fiber, coco peat, twine, and erosion-control coco logs. These products address both economic and environmental needs.
Mayor Jason John A. Joyce explained that the municipality intends to integrate these value-added products into its Disaster Risk Reduction and Management strategies. The coco logs will help address flooding and soil erosion challenges that affect local communities. This approach turns agricultural waste into a resource that protects lives and property.
Science-Powered Solutions for Local Challenges
DOST Davao Occidental Provincial Director Maria Victoria I. Dado noted that the project emerged from observing the accumulation of coconut husks in the area. The agency partnered with the LGU to explore ways to convert this waste into productive use. The initiative supports the national government's push for responsive, homegrown science and technology solutions.
The project aligns with the Bio-Circular-Green economy model, where waste materials are recovered and transformed into useful products. This framework reduces agricultural waste buildup while creating sustainable livelihoods. It demonstrates how science, technology, and innovation can deliver community-level benefits.
Empowering Women, Youth, and Indigenous Peoples
Beyond economic gains, the SMART-BUNOT project will provide targeted skills training and capacity-building programs. Women, youth, and Indigenous Peoples will participate directly in manufacturing and facility operations. This inclusive approach ensures that marginalized groups benefit from the initiative.
The project will create new micro-enterprise opportunities for coconut farmers who previously treated husks as waste. These alternative revenue streams strengthen rural economies and reduce dependency on single income sources. The initiative promotes inclusive growth within local communities.
A Model for Coastal Municipalities
The SMART-BUNOT project serves as a practical model for other coconut-producing municipalities in the Davao Region. It demonstrates how local governments can partner with science agencies to address environmental challenges while creating economic value. The initiative was highlighted during the Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week 2026 celebration.
The project supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to leverage Filipino technology for sustainable development. It shows that innovative thinking can turn ordinary waste into extraordinary opportunities. Jose Abad Santos is now positioning itself as a leader in community-driven, science-based resilience.
