The logo of DepEd, taken from en.wikipedia.com - Edge Davao, can be found on the top of the page. This page is dedicated to the Division of Masbate, specifically the Cataingan National High School located in Cataingan, Masbate. The main topic of this report is Coconut, also known as "The Tree of Life," which is the major crop in the Bicol Region and is considered as the sunshine industry of the region. Coconut palms create scenic views on the beach, but little do people know that coconut has a variety of uses and benefits.

Coconut is more than just a fruit or nut - it's a versatile crop that can provide a wide range of products, from food to solid furniture, oil, medicine, paper, and even clothing. In this report, we focus on the production of refined coconut oil. Coconut oil can be extracted through wet or dry processing, made by pressing fresh coconut meat or dried coconut meat called copra. Refined coconut oil is neutral and has no distinct coconut taste or aroma, unlike unrefined coconut oil, which has a delicate taste.

The data presented in this report shows the life cycle of a coconut, from harvesting to refining oil. The first phase of harvesting involves picking up coconuts that have fallen from the tree. The exocarp layer is hard and green, while the mesocarp is the husk that lies underneath, brown and hairy. The endocarp is the seed's outer layer, found inside the husk. The coconut contains a white layer of meat, liquid, and a lot of lives relying on it for survival.

The second phase involves the use of the whole coconut, followed by the third phase of dehusking. The fourth phase is water removal, or the extraction of coconut water. The fifth phase is deshelling, while the sixth phase involves drying the coconut. The seventh phase involves drying the meat, known as copra, and the final phase is refining oil.

In conclusion, coconut is indeed the "Tree of Life" with its numerous uses and benefits. It is considered as the sunshine industry of the Bicol Region and is a valuable crop for the Philippines. The production of refined coconut oil is just one of the many ways that coconut can be utilized, making it an essential crop for various industries worldwide.

Refined Coconut Oil (RBD), which is made through dry processing of copra, is extracted from the dried coconut meat. Prior to oil pressing, the coconuts are cracked open and then sun-dried or machine-dried. After which, the copra is sent to a coconut expeller machine to get crude oil, which then undergoes oil refining process (Refining, Bleaching, Deodorizing) to obtain the final refined coconut or copra oil.

As for alternative products for coconut oil in baking or cooking, there are several options available. Extra Virgin Olive Oil is arguably the most popular and easiest substitute for coconut oil. It can be utilized in the same quantities as coconut oil and its inclusion in Mediterranean diets has been shown to offer a host of benefits, from reducing the effects of aging to improving cardiovascular health.

Coconut King Extra Virgin Coconut Oil is a certified organic RBD (cooking oil), MCT oil, and vegan coconut milk powder producer based in the Philippines. Sunflower Seed Oil, which is derived from sunflower seeds, is another excellent replacement for coconut oil. It is rich in vitamins A, E, and D, as well as antioxidants and fatty acids that may help lower cholesterol levels, protect heart health, and reduce the risk of chronic disease. Virginia Foods, Inc. is a Filipino food manufacturing company that produces and sells a comprehensive range of cooking oils, including sunflower cooking oil.

Butter is another substitute for coconut oil in baking or cooking. Although coconut oil is more popular in tropical countries, butter was the cooking fat of choice in many European cuisines. Farm to Table is an independent purveyor of high-quality, all-natural, 100% grass-fed dairy products founded by two aspiring Filipino business pioneers. Olive Oil is primarily used for the treatment of heart disease, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. It is also commonly used as a cooking and salad oil. Doña Elena is a brand known for its premium quality olives directly sourced and harvested from the farms of Andalucia, which also offers high levels of natural antioxidants and vitamins.

Lastly, coir is a natural fiber extracted from the outer husk of coconut, which is used in several products such as floor mats, doormats, brushes, and mattresses. It is the fibrous material found between the hard internal shell and the outer coat of a coconut and is used extensively in horticulture for creating potting compost.

San Roque Coconut Cooking Oil is a local business situated in Camarines Sur, with a goal to make its customers happy by offering high-quality and wholesome products that are thoughtfully prepared. The coconut oil the company produces is not only beneficial to its customers but also contributes to the company's growth. The company is open to innovative manufacturing strategies to ensure the safety of its products and the environment. As part of its mission to give back to the community, the company provides employment opportunities to individuals who lost their jobs during the pandemic, supports local farmers, and encourages farm initiatives. Despite its modest beginnings, San Roque is grateful for the trust its farmers and customers have given them.

Coconuts have been an essential source of income for Bicolanos, and the Philippines is the leading exporter of coconut oil, supplying 42% of world exports. The nutritional content of coconuts and their fiber content make them an ideal source of food and medicine. Coconut oil is packed with essential proteins, vitamins, and minerals, which makes it a versatile product. While farmers and the environment require further improvements, businesses that produce coconut products sustainably, like San Roque, should be supported.

Coconut is also an excellent medium for craftsmanship, as it can be used to make different items like furniture, utensils, plates, vases, and decorative items. Coconut wood is a popular material for interior design elements due to its unique texture and versatility. Coconut fibre is also used to make a range of products such as doormats, mattresses, and even bowls.

In conclusion, coconuts hold immense economic value for the Philippines, and numerous products can be made from its various parts. San Roque Coconut Cooking Oil is an excellent example of a business that values its customers and farmers' welfare while providing high-quality products. The demand for coconut products is rising every day, and it is necessary to support businesses that produce coconut products sustainably.

Rachael Link, a knowledgeable MS and RD, has written an informative article on coconut nutrition on Healthline. You can find it at https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/coconut-nutrition. Additionally, if you're interested in learning about the process of creating coconut oil, https://www.virginutty.co.uk/blog/how-coconut-oil-is-made-virginutty offers an ultimate guide on the topic, complete with pictures. Furthermore, the website https://www.linbro.com/14-coconut-products/ has compiled a list of 14 coconut products currently popular among consumers.

If you're looking for substitutes for coconut oil, John Staughton (BASc, BFA) has written a comprehensive article on https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/oils/coconut-oil-substitutes.html?fbclid=IwAR09Q8Iv4xGOK_wc3dd9nWzc0mVNuHtIurSjrLHkXH2ncrrzmWTQ4O8K1bo. Updated as of May 26, 2021, the article lists some of the best alternatives to coconut oil and how to use them.