QUEZON CITY— The Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) kicked off the week-long celebration of the 50th Founding Anniversary with the theme “PCA@50: Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future of the Philippine Coconut Industry.”

Among the highlights of the celebration is the opening of the photo exhibition featuring PCA milestones and the showcase of coconut products produced by coconut farmers supported by the Authority.

“This is a remarkable year for all of us. From being three different government agencies to merging as one institution whose foundation lies within its core values of commitment, honesty, and competence, the men and women who passionately served the Filipino coconut farmers with all their hearts and minds made PCA a stronger and better institution,” said PCA Administrator Bernie F. Cruz in his welcoming message during the press conference.

Administrator Cruz also emphasized that there are still many things needed to revitalize the Philippine coconut industry— making it progressive, sustainable, and globally competitive. He also called on the support of the media in the PCA advocacy of reaching and empowering Filipino coconut farmers.

Following the press conference is the Ceremonial Awarding of Coconut Farmers and Industry Trust Fund (CFITF) Act Program benefits to coconut farmers and coconut farmer organizations.

A total of about Php 65 million worth of programs, projects, and services under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development.

Plan (CFIDF) was awarded to the invited coconut farmers and organizations.

Meanwhile, the Coco Bazaar located at the PCA grounds is open to the public until Tuesday, June 27.

The Philippine Coconut Authority was created in 1973 through the Presidential Degree No. 232 with a mandate to (a) promote the accelerated development of the coconut and other palm oils industry in all its aspects; (b) provide general directions for the steady and orderly development of the industry; and (c) achieve vertical integration of the coconut industry so that the coconut farmers become participants in and beneficiaries of the development and growth of the coconut industry.

The PCA is one of the implementing agencies of the CFITF Act with an annual allotment of 15% from the Trust Fund that shall be utilized on the Coconut Hybridization Program, particularly operations on the ground, through its Regional Offices and Research Centers. (PCA)