The coconut tree is known as the "Tree of Life" as a multitude of products can be made from its various parts. 

Beyond its refreshing coconut water and culinary delights, what else can be done with coconut?

With the celebration of the 64th founding anniversary of the town of Linamon in Lanao del Norte, the streets came alive as locals and visitors joined in the festivities of the Hudyaka sa Lubi (Merriment of Coconuts) Festival.

Celebrating culture and creativity

Residents from eight barangays showcased their talents and creativity through the festival street dancing and festival queen competitions and showcased their coconut-inspired costumes and props, including broomsticks, tuba (coconut wine), coconut husks, buko pie, banig  (traditional woven mats), and more. 

Barangay Magoong emerged as the grand champion of the street dancing competition and won a cash prize of P70,000.  This group not only celebrated their cultural heritage but also promoted the importance of preserving natural resources and traditional craftsmanship through the use of indigenous materials in their costumes and props.

"I am overwhelmed and very happy kay after 16 years, karon pa nabalik ang Magoong nga nachampion [I am overwhelmed and very happy because, after 16 years, Magoong has become champion again]," said Jhona Ricaplaza, one of the performers.

Meanwhile, Kris Cuerpo, the festival queen of  Barangay Magoong, shared that they only prepared for two weeks.  She expressed gratitude to everyone, including supporters and municipal officials, for continuing the tradition of the festival.  

Meanwhile, Barangay Samburon secured the first runner-up spot and won a P50,000 cash prize. Their performance also highlighted their town’s pride, the delectable buko pie, the pristine beaches, and other attractions. Moreover,  Barangay Bosque won as the 2nd runner-up and took home the P30,000 cash prize.

Fulfilling dreams as queens

Mary Marjorie Cañete, Barangay Samburon's representative, was crowned the best festival queen and won several other awards, including Ms. Photogenic, Best in Production Number, Intro Spiel, Solo Presentation, and Festival Costume. .

She expressed her long-standing dream of joining such an event.  Mary is currently studying a Bachelor of Arts in History at Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology. Before joining the festival, she conducted research on its significance and origins, particularly its connection to other coconut-related festivals. She discovered the rich history behind the festival, including its first edition in 2001. Mary expressed her passion for history and the importance of research in uncovering past stories and traditions.

"Para sa akoa, naa koy passion nga gusto jud ko muapil ani, and para sa akoa, kabalo ko nga kaya nako sya and ganahan ko ug challenges pud. I want to prove na kaya nako, and I will overcome it. Nindot kaayo siya kay ang residences sa Linamon naa time para magkahiusa, and also makita ang talent sa kanya-kanyang mga barangay [For me, I have a passion inside me that pushes me to participate in this, and for me, I know I can do it, and I also enjoy challenges. I want to prove that I can do it and that I will overcome it. It is really nice that the residents of Linamon have time to unite and showcase the different  talents of each barangay]," she said.

Meanwhile, Mary Moniel Arañez, the festival queen of Barangay Robocon, shared that she was doubtful about joining in the competition, but she motivated herself to do her best for her barangay and to bring pride to their community. She encouraged others to pursue their dreams, do their best, and maintain confidence at all times. 

"Nienter ko ani para magdala ug pride sa among barangay [I joined in this event to bring pride to our barangay]. There are a lot of things nga akong nalearn [that I have learned]. First, you need to be confident at all times. Even though ginadown ka sa uban [other might you down], you need to improve yourself," she said.

Moreover, Mary Andrea Nuñez from Barangay Poblacion joined the festival queen competition for the first time, fulfilling her long-time dream. She took pride in the creativity of her team as she dressed in a gown made from banig. She emphasized the friendships and unity built within their group during the preparation. She also expressed gratitude to the local government for giving them the opportunity to showcase their talents.

Being united like the tree of life 

Mayor Randy Macapil encouraged the unity of everyone, like the coconut tree. Just like how the coconut tree provides resources for communities, unity serves as the foundation for a resilient and thriving society.

“Isul-ob nato ang armor sa panaghiusa. Balik-balikon nako ni kay kung walay panaghiusa, walay kalambuan. Dili mulambo ang katawhan labi na sa ilang panginabuhi [We should wear the armor of unity. Unity should always prevail, because without it, there is no progress. People, especially their livelihoods, will not prosper],” he said.

Macapil shared that efforts were made to address the community's basic needs, prioritizing access to water and other necessities. Opportunities for employment and food were also pursued. The mayor hoped that leadership would continue to prioritize those in need, despite any differences, with the objective remaining focused on serving the people, particularly the poorest of the poor. 

Just like the 'Tree of Life', the people of Linamon remain strong and united, working together to build a better future for their community with their rich resources. (LELA/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)