Published August 14, 2025 by Campus Information Office
𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐨𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐮𝐭 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤 𝐤𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐬 𝐨𝐟𝐟 𝐚𝐭 𝐂𝐒𝐔 𝐒𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐳 𝐌𝐢𝐫𝐚
The 39th Regional Coconut Week Celebration officially opened today, August 14, at the Cagayan State University–Sanchez Mira Campus, gathering industry leaders, local government officials, farmers, and students under the theme “Niyog: Ginto sa Kabukiran, Hatid ay Kabuhayan, at Sandigan sa Kaunlaran ng Bayan.”
In his welcome message, Dr. Rodel Francisco T. Alegado, Campus Executive Officer of CSU-SM, emphasized that the event not only honors the resilience of coconut farmers but also paves the way for innovation and collaboration.
“This celebration is to honor the people who sustained the coconut industries. This event is not just an avenue of learning but for building a stronger network and nurturing our vision,” he said.
PCA Regional Manager III Mark Roy Q. Macanlalay reminded participants of the agency’s mission by highlighting the endemic Sanchez Mira Tall Variety and reaffirming the PCA’s commitment to provide opportunities for coconut farmers and the industry.
Echoing the importance of the industry, Dr. Arthur G. Ibañez, ASEAN Engr., OIC University President of CSU, underscored, “The coconut tree serves humanity. All its parts are helpful to our communities.”
Meanwhile, Hon. Abraham B. Bagasin, Municipal Mayor of Sanchez Mira, proudly affirmed the town’s position as the leading coconut producer in the province. He also emphasized that farmers are the true wealth of the community and called on them to use the celebration as an opportunity to unite.
Adding to the call for progress, Dr. Junel B. Guzman, CSU Vice President for Research and Extension, stressed, “There lies the promise of progress. It is a call for us to protect, promote innovation, and strengthen partnerships between farmers, academe, and the government. Together we can assure the coconut industry remains a pillar of development and national progress."
A ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the formal opening of the Coconut Trade Fair, showcasing local products and innovations from the coconut industry.
The program continued with presentations of the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP), highlighting initiatives for agriculture, livelihood, and sustainability in the region.
The celebration will run until August 16, featuring the CocoSina culinary contest, CocoGames, and recognition of Gawad Saka awardees on August 15.
It will conclude on August 16 with a Fun Run and Coconut Tree Planting activity promoting health, camaraderie, and environmental stewardship.
The three-day event reflects the united efforts of PCA, CSU, government agencies, and stakeholders in advancing the coconut industry while honoring the resilience and contribution of coconut farmers in the region.