TUBOD, LANAO DEL NORTE – July 1, 2025 — The 66th Araw ng Lanao del Norte officially opened with a resounding celebration of the province’s lifeblood—agriculture. Branded as “Agriculture Day,” the kick-off event at the Agora Complex in Tubod showcased not only the province’s agricultural richness but also the vibrant culture and hardworking spirit of its people.
The opening ceremony, led by top provincial officials and national agency heads, marked the beginning of the Agri-Aqua, Livestock, and Trade Fair, which runs as a central feature of the weeklong celebration. Among the dignitaries who graced the ribbon-cutting were Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) Administrator and CEO Dr. Dexter Buted, Department of Agriculture–Region 10 Executive Director Jose Apollo Pacamalan, BFAR Regional Director Edward B. Yasay, PCA Acting Regional Manager, and members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan led by Vice Governor Allan Lim.
At the heart of the fair was the Inter-Municipality Agri-Aqua Booth Exhibit, where all 19 municipalities displayed their best produce—from fresh fruits, vegetables, and aquaculture harvests to indigenous food products and handicrafts. More than just a showcase of bounty, each booth reflected the unique culture, traditions, and environmental practices of the towns they represented, reinforcing the link between agriculture and heritage.
Simultaneously, the Trade Fair provided a bustling marketplace for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Offering native delicacies, processed goods, crafts, and organic products, the fair was a platform for local entrepreneurs to promote their goods, engage new markets, and strengthen grassroots economies. The initiative reflects the provincial government’s vision of inclusive development—where agriculture, enterprise, and cultural identity grow hand in hand.
Adding excitement and color to Agriculture Day was the 26th Livestock Fair, hosted by the Provincial Veterinary Office. This annual event put the spotlight on livestock farmers—often unsung heroes of the agricultural sector—and honored their contribution to food security and rural livelihoods.
A crowd favorite, the Livestock PINAKA Contest, recognized the best artificial insemination (AI) calf and caracalf, while the Painted Carabao Competition turned the iconic farm animal into a moving canvas. The Municipality of Lala claimed the top prize in the painted carabao category, taking home ₱20,000. The Carabao Racing event added adrenaline to the festivities, with Tubod proudly emerging as champion and bagging ₱7,000.
Other standout winners included a contestant from Maigo, whose entry was named the Heaviest Manok, winning ₱5,000 worth of prizes from PILMICO. Fun-filled family competitions such as the Load Carrying Relay, Milk Drinking Contest, and Egg Eating Challenge brought farmers and their families together in laughter and unity. Winners received gift packs courtesy of Pigrolac, with all participants receiving tokens of appreciation.
More than just a festive gathering, Agriculture Day served as a powerful reminder of the province’s commitment to sustainable rural development. By highlighting local innovations, strengthening community pride, and supporting small-scale farmers and businesses, the Provincial Government of Lanao del Norte reaffirms its dedication to nurturing the agricultural heart that sustains its people.
As the province looks forward to the rest of the 66th Araw ng Lanao del Norte festivities, Agriculture Day has already set the tone—a celebration rooted in resilience, rich heritage, and shared prosperity.