By Kenneth Marcos 
A simple yet heartfelt gesture marked a moment of gratitude as the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) expressed its deep appreciation to Representative Anna York P. Bondoc of Pampanga’s 4th District for her unwavering support to the country’s coconut industry and to millions of Filipino coconut farmers.
During the budget hearing of the Department of Agriculture on September 29, 2025, Rep. Bondoc strongly defended the need for continued government assistance to the agriculture sector, emphasizing that the coconut industry remains one of the main pillars of the Philippine economy. She highlighted how this sector provides livelihood to millions of farmers and their families across the country.
In her remarks, Bondoc underscored the importance of sustaining key government programs for coconut farmers, including large-scale replanting, fertilizer distribution, intercropping support, provision of shared service facilities, and access to healthcare and welfare programs. These initiatives, she said, aim to increase farmers’ income and strengthen the foundations of rural development.
The congresswoman also lauded the Department of Agriculture and Secretary Francisco “Kiko” Tiu Laurel Jr. for reinforcing their commitment to uplift agriculture under the “Bagong Pilipinas” agenda. She noted that improving the allocation and utilization of agricultural funds is vital in ensuring long-term food security and economic growth.
In recognition of her steadfast advocacy, PCA Administrator and CEO Dexter R. Buted presented Rep. Bondoc with a unique handcrafted bouquet made entirely from coconut leaves. The creative token symbolized the resilience, artistry, and resourcefulness of the coconut industry—an emblem of both nature’s abundance and the farmers’ ingenuity.
The bouquet was crafted by skilled workers from the PCA–Albay Research Center, known for developing innovative coconut-based products and promoting value-adding enterprises in line with Administrator Buted’s direction to strengthen entrepreneurship in the coconut sector.
The PCA family, through Administrator Buted, extended its heartfelt thanks to Rep. Bondoc for her continuing support to the agency’s mission and to the coconut farming community. Her leadership and compassion, the agency said, serve as an inspiration for PCA to further advance programs that build a stronger, more sustainable, and inclusive coconut industry for the nation.
As the government pushes toward a “Bagong Pilipinas,” the PCA reaffirmed its pledge to work hand in hand with leaders and farmers to achieve a coconut industry that is resilient, competitive, and prosperous — one that secures the future of millions of Filipino families who depend on it.
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