The southern town of Brooke’s Point celebrated its first-ever “Tulno Festival” with fervor in Barangay Imulnod on March 8, coinciding with the 35th Founding Anniversary of the said barangay.
The event, spearheaded by the Provincial Agriculture Office (PAgO) under the leadership of Provincial Agriculturist Dr. Romeo M. Cabungcal, showcased the vibrant agricultural sector of the region.
It aimed to uplift the livelihoods of farmers and fisherfolk, aligning with the directive of Governor V. Dennis M. Socrates to enhance the living standards of agricultural communities across Palawan.
According to PAgO records, Barangay Imulnod is now a major producer of highland vegetables in the province, poised to supply various parts of Palawan. Meanwhile, nearby town Sofronio Española contributes to the production of snap beans and cabbage, with the bulk of its yield originating from Brooke’s Point.
Attendees, mostly farmers specializing in highland vegetables, rice cultivation, and fishing, flocked to the festival. The event featured booths showcasing freshly harvested and nutritious locally grown produce such as carrots, sayote, cabbage, among others. Notably, these vegetables were previously imported from colder regions like the Mountain Province but are now readily available in Brooke’s Point.
Additionally, a Turn Over Ceremony was held, distributing agricultural inputs to the Imulnod Vegetable Farmers Association, benefiting farmers from various sitios. The inputs, provided through the Food Always in the Home (FAITH) Program, included essential tools and materials necessary for vegetable cultivation.
Furthermore, fertilizer inputs were allocated to farmer associations under the PGP Corn and Rice Enhancement for Sufficiency (CARES) Program, while fisherfolk received support through the Fish Catch and Aquaculture Enhancement Program.
The festival concluded with traditional games, actively participated in by both indigenous Palaweños and visitors. Notable personalities, including former Board Member Albert G. Rama representing Governor Socrates, and local officials, graced the event to show their support for the farming community. Among them were Brooke’s Point Mayor Cesareo R. Benedito, Jr., alongside members of the Sanggunian Bayan and the Municipal Agriculture Officer.
Also present were Puerto Princesa City Vice Mayor Maria Nancy Socrates, representatives from USAID Safe Water, DA-DOSTe, and Soroptimist International-Palawan.