Quezon City—The Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), the Council of Hotel and Restaurant Educators of the Philippines (COHREP), and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) gear up for a thrilling culinary battle. The "Coco Kulinarya Turismo x COHREP Skills Competition," a major highlight of the 39th National Coconut Week, will see aspiring chefs and culinary artists from schools, industry players, and tourism institutions unleash their creativity in a high-stakes showdown

Expect sizzling pans, flying knives, and a whirlwind of coconut-infused flavors as these culinary warriors vie for glory.

Officials from the PCA led by Administrator Dr. Dexter R. Buted, met with the COHREP Board Mr. Rodolfo E. Cabardo, Dr. Mitchell A. Borja, and Dr. Abram Emmanuel Peralta and DTI officials Ms. Melissa Jous and Ms. Emma Asusano on January 23 to discuss the competition's progress. The meeting, held at the PCA Central Office and via Zoom, focused on refining competition mechanics, establishing criteria, addressing logistical considerations, and preparing for what is set to be the biggest and grandest skills competition in the history of the coconut industry.

This event, months in the making, will feature three major clusters: Culinary, Tourism, and Hospitality. Schools, hotels, restaurants, agencies, and the travel and tour industry are encouraged to participate.

The competition seeks to highlight the innovative use of coconut-based ingredients in culinary creations, promote sustainable tourism practices centered around coconut farming communities, and showcase exceptional hospitality services that emphasize the cultural significance of the coconut.

An upcoming meeting on January 28 will further solidify the competition framework with the Department of Tourism (DOT) joining the discussions. Key agenda items include refining guidelines, finalizing judging criteria, exploring sponsorship opportunities, and implementing strategic marketing efforts.

Dr. Buted expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "This will be the biggest and grandest skills competition showdown in the history of our coconut industry! If we achieve the success we envision, we will see you again next year, as we plan to make this an annual event, a tradition that will continue to shine a spotlight on the potential of our coconut industry."

COHREP, a leading academic professional organization, plays a crucial role in shaping quality hospitality and tourism education in the Philippines. Committed to teaching excellence, COHREP aims to develop competent graduates with employable skills while supporting partnerships with industry and government stakeholders to uphold high standards in hospitality and tourism education.

The PCA and COHREP's collaboration underscores a shared commitment to celebrate and advance the coconut industry, integrating the expertise of educators, industry professionals, and government agencies.

Preparations are in full swing, and anticipation continues to grow as the 39th National Coconut Week Celebration approaches. The Coco Kulinarya Turismo x COHREP Skills Competition is set to be a defining moment for the coconut industry, bringing to the spotlight the sector’s indispensable role in the nation’s economy and cultural heritage.