𝘘𝘶𝘦𝘻𝘰𝘯 𝘊𝘪𝘵𝘺—The Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), led by Administrator and CEO, Dr. Dexter R. Buted, held a strategic meeting with the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) - College of Agriculture and Food Science (CAFS) Dean, Dr. Amado A. Angeles on January 6, 2025, at the PCA Central Office to discuss potential collaborations aimed at bolstering the agency’s massive coconut planting and replanting programs.

During the meeting, both leaders explored UPLB’s role as the country’s national university in spearheading initiatives among State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) to support the PCA's mission of revitalizing the coconut industry. The discussion also included the possibility of designating UPLB as a strategic site for planting coconut seedlings, strengthening its years-long commitment to supporting coconut-related programs.

UPLB, known for its role in advancing the agricultural sector, has long been a reliable partner of the authority, particularly in accommodating coconut-related projects, such as the cultivation of new coconut hybrids at its experimental farms. Over the years, UPLB has also been at the forefront of efforts aimed at safeguarding and revitalizing the coconut industry, leveraging its expertise in agricultural innovation and research.

PCA chief underscored that the engagement with UPLB is part of the agency’s "whole-of-the-nation" approach, which seeks to involve key institutions, stakeholders, and communities in achieving the agency’s ambitious goal of planting and replanting millions of coconut trees nationwide.

This renewed partnership reflects the crucial role of academic institutions in driving sustainable agricultural initiatives and advancing the growth of the coconut industry.