By Kenneth Marcos 
Under the warm Ilocos sun, tobacco leaves swayed gently as farmers gathered with pride, celebrating a livelihood that has shaped their community for generations.
The National Tobacco Administration (NTA) Candon Branch joined forces with the Candon City Government, led by Mayor Eric D. Singson, to celebrate Tobacco Day in Candon City, Ilocos Sur. The event honored the tobacco industry and recognized the dedication of farmers who continue to support the local economy.
Top officials from the NTA attended the celebration, including Administrator and CEO Belinda S. Sanchez, along with Deputy Administrators Benedicto M. Savellano and Nestor C. Casela. Branch managers and staff from Pangasinan, La Union, Abra, Vigan, Ilocos Norte, Isabela, and Candon also showed their support. Local leaders, including Vice Mayor Kristelle Singson, members of the City Council, and Deputy Speaker Kristine Singson-Meehan, were present during the event.
The celebration highlighted the strong partnership between the NTA and the local government in supporting tobacco farmers. Organizers said this collaboration is important in ensuring stable income, access to programs, and continued development in farming communities.
Farmers, both young and old, actively joined various contests and activities designed to showcase their skills and knowledge. Among the highlights was the Longest Tobacco Leaf contest, where participants displayed the quality of their harvests.
In the Virginia Improved category, Domingo Gabong of Barangay Tablac secured first place, followed by Evelyn Valdez of Barangay Parioc 2nd in second place, and John Paul Alcantara of Barangay Allangigan 1st in third place. The same winners also topped the Native category, showing consistent excellence in their crops.
Traditional skills were also featured in the Panagdubla contest, a local practice of bundling tobacco leaves. In the senior category, Nancy Galolo of Barangay Bugnay won first place, followed by Susan Galicia of Barangay Tablac and Aida Alcantara of Barangay Allangigan 2nd. In the adult category, Julia Camarao of Barangay Bugnay took the top spot, with Jennie Galario and Manilyn Valencia, both from Barangay Parioc 2nd, placing second and third.
The Sticking Relay, a team-based activity, added excitement to the celebration. Group 3 from Barangay Allangigan 2nd emerged as the winner, followed by Group 2 from Barangay Parioc 2nd, and Group 1 from Barangay Allangigan 2nd.
Beyond the competitions, the event served as a reminder of the importance of tobacco farming in the region. Ilocos Sur remains one of the country’s key tobacco-producing areas, providing livelihood to thousands of families. Government support, training, and community programs continue to play a role in sustaining the industry.
Officials emphasized that while challenges remain, such as changing market demands and climate conditions, farmers’ resilience and strong community ties help keep the industry alive.
As the celebration ended, farmers returned home carrying not just prizes but renewed pride in their work. The event underscored a simple truth: behind every tobacco leaf is the hard work of Filipino farmers who continue to feed their families and support their communities.
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