[Palmer Taliño Taray (middle) during the awarding ceremony of Oceanman Philippines]

DAVAO CITY—13-year-old Palmer Taliño Taray, a teenager from Davao City diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), qualified for the prestigious open water swimming competition in Dubai after triumphantly finishing the first ever Oceanman Philippines held in Siargao on 5 April 2025.

Palmer participated in the 2-kilometer course open water swim and was able to finish it within 1 hour and 44 minutes. However, due to the strong water current in the area, it was recorded that he swam around 3.7 kilometers in total, the farthest he had gone during a swimming competition. About 570 other swimmers participated in the event together with Palmer. This achievement coincides with the celebration of the World Autism Month this April which ignites a global movement aimed at understanding, accepting, and empowering people with autism.

As the first ever finisher with ASD, Palmer ranked first in the inspirational category and is set to participate in Oceanman Dubai later this year. Asked how Palmer offcially qualified for this, Coach Kirt Loven Murcia said, "He was the only one with mental health disability who participated in the event in Siargao, and the organizers were so amazed by his dedication. Per my record, he is also the first with that level of ASD to survive such a well-known swimming competition."

The 13-year-old swimmer with special needs is the youngest son of Mr. Jerry John Taray and Mrs. Jocelyn Taliño Taray who hailed from Davao City. Following his recent achievements such as finishing the Davao-Samal Cross Channel Swim and the first Oceanman Philippines, Mrs. Taray said, "Our family is extremely proud of Palmer's achievements, and we are very excited to participate in Oceanman Dubai this year! As his mother, I have seen how Palmer strived hard to get here. He learned discipline and was able to develop a healthy daily routine. We are also glad that we've finally discovered his potential, this only proves that children with ASD can also excel in different fields with the right support from family and friends."

Joining the first Oceanman Philippines is a significant milestone for Palmer and his swimming coaches because it was an avenue for them to tell the world that people with autism can exceed their limitations and be achievers in their own fields. The key to this is discovering their talents and unlocking new skills by engaging them in new hobbies and activities.

Palmer only started swimming 2 years ago as a form of therapy aimed at improving his motor skills and sensory abilities. Few months after, he has shown significant progress and interest in swimming. However. the journey was challenging not only for Palmer and his family but also for his coaches because they needed to teach him how to follow instructions by implementing strict routines.

Aquatic training for children with ASD has many positive effects, it improves their motor abilities as well as their social behavior and communication skills. Similarly, it helps with emotion regulation because water naturally gives pressure on the body, which can feel calming, and this sensory feedback can help children with autism feel more grounded and in control of their emotions. Further, swimming can be a way to release built-up energy and tension among children with ASD.

In preparation for the upcoming Oceanman open-water swimming competition in Dubai this year, Palmer is set to join more local swimming competitions and marathons across the country to further gain strength and endurance. He will likewise continue his training four times a week together with Coaches Kirt Loven Murcia and Kevin Palabao.

Oceanman is a globally recognized series of open-water swimming competitions that attract swimmers of all levels—from beginners to elite athletes. Established in 2015, it has grown into one of the largest international open-water swimming circuits, hosting events across five continents and drawing over 40,000 participants annually. Amomg the well-known local personalities who joined the recently held Oceanman Philippines together with Palmer were Erwan Heusaff, Nico Bolzico, and Wil Dasovich.

[Palmer Taliño Taray (middle) during the awarding ceremony of Oceanman Philippines]DAVAO CITY—13-year-old Palmer Taliño Taray, a teenager from Davao City diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), qualified for the prestigious open water swimming competition in Dubai after triumphantly finishing the first ever Oceanman Philippines held in Siargao on 5 April 2025.Palmer participated in the 2-kilometer course open water swim and was able to finish it within 1 hour and 44 minutes. However, due to the strong water current in the area, it was recorded that he swam around 3.7 kilometers in total, the farthest he had gone during a swimming competition. About 570 other swimmers participated in the event together with Palmer. This achievement coincides with the celebration of the World Autism Month this April which ignites a global movement aimed at understanding, accepting, and empowering people with autism.As the first ever finisher with ASD, Palmer ranked first in the inspirational category and is set to participate in Oceanman Dubai later this year. Asked how Palmer offcially qualified for this, Coach Kirt Loven Murcia said, "He was the only one with mental health disability who participated in the event in Siargao, and the organizers were so amazed by his dedication. Per my record, he is also the first with that level of ASD to survive such a well-known swimming competition."The 13-year-old swimmer with special needs is the youngest son of Mr. Jerry John Taray and Mrs. Jocelyn Taliño Taray who hailed from Davao City. Following his recent achievements such as finishing the Davao-Samal Cross Channel Swim and the first Oceanman Philippines, Mrs. Taray said, "Our family is extremely proud of Palmer's achievements, and we are very excited to participate in Oceanman Dubai this year! As his mother, I have seen how Palmer strived hard to get here. He learned discipline and was able to develop a healthy daily routine. We are also glad that we've finally discovered his potential, this only proves that children with ASD can also excel in different fields with the right support from family and friends."<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/0f4cbf91-9aa4-41ee-c739-8bce39973500/public" alt="[Palmer together with his mother, Mrs. Jocelyn Taliño Taray, his swimming coaches, and Oceanman Asia Manager Jose Luis Larrosa]" />Joining the first Oceanman Philippines is a significant milestone for Palmer and his swimming coaches because it was an avenue for them to tell the world that people with autism can exceed their limitations and be achievers in their own fields. The key to this is discovering their talents and unlocking new skills by engaging them in new hobbies and activities.Palmer only started swimming 2 years ago as a form of therapy aimed at improving his motor skills and sensory abilities. Few months after, he has shown significant progress and interest in swimming. However. the journey was challenging not only for Palmer and his family but also for his coaches because they needed to teach him how to follow instructions by implementing strict routines.Aquatic training for children with ASD has many positive effects, it improves their motor abilities as well as their social behavior and communication skills. Similarly, it helps with emotion regulation because water naturally gives pressure on the body, which can feel calming, and this sensory feedback can help children with autism feel more grounded and in control of their emotions. Further, swimming can be a way to release built-up energy and tension among children with ASD.In preparation for the upcoming Oceanman open-water swimming competition in Dubai this year, Palmer is set to join more local swimming competitions and marathons across the country to further gain strength and endurance. He will likewise continue his training four times a week together with Coaches Kirt Loven Murcia and Kevin Palabao.Oceanman is a globally recognized series of open-water swimming competitions that attract swimmers of all levels—from beginners to elite athletes. Established in 2015, it has grown into one of the largest international open-water swimming circuits, hosting events across five continents and drawing over 40,000 participants annually. Amomg the well-known local personalities who joined the recently held Oceanman Philippines together with Palmer were Erwan Heusaff, Nico Bolzico, and Wil Dasovich.

Childbirth / Childcare

Fitness / Healthcare

Welfare / Nursing / Rehabilitation

Sports

13-year-old Swimmer with Autism Dives into Global Stage, Qualifies for Oceanman Dubai

&nbsp;DAVAO CITY—On 8 December 2024, Palmer Taliño Taray, a 12-year-old boy from Davao City who has Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), made history as the first autistic child to join and finish the iconic Davao-Samal Cross Channel. The swimming event, which started in Davao City and ended in Samal Island showcased Palmer's unwavering determination and remarkable journey.&nbsp;

In total, Davao City to Samal Island has a distance of 1.2 kilometers. However, the course had been challenging not only for Palmer but also for the other participants because it had a water current that made the distance almost more than 3 kilometers.&nbsp;

Palmer only started learning to swim in 2023, with no prior experience. Over the past year, his patience and determination were tested as he underwent training sessions four times a week with Master Coach Kirt Loven Murcia and Coach Kevin Palabao, to prepare him mentally and physically for the challenging swim.&nbsp;

In a message, Coach Kirt mentioned that he noticed several changes in Palmer's behavior after they started training. He said that because of regular training, the boy was able to relax underwater. He likewise shared that they faced many challenges along the way but he simply trusted the process and continued teaching Palmer, leading to this achievement.

Palmer's remarkable achievement in the recently-concluded Davao-Samal Cross Channel earned him a 'Special Swimmer Award' in recognition of his incredible feat as an autistic child, who, despite the physical and mental challenges he faced throughout the journey, succeeded in completing the demanding swimming course.&nbsp;

In an interview, Palmer's mother, Ms. Jocelyn Taliño Taray said, "The unconditional love, early acceptance, proper diet and training, as well as being surrounded by the right people, were key factors in Palmer's development. With this, I encourage other parents out there to find the right skills and talent for our kids with autism. Don't give up because everything's possible with God's grace, and our determination to find life-long solutions."&nbsp;

Further, his sister, Ms. Rochella "Ella" Taliño Taray expressed enthusiasm for Palmer's success, saying, "Promoting awareness on autism and the challenges faced by people who have this kind of disorder is one of my core advocacies. Witnessing Palmer's success today with the support of the entire family and our friends makes me think that nothing is impossible. I hope that in the near future, the government can fund free swimming lessons for children with ASD because we've seen how this positively changed Palmer's behavior and development in just one year."&nbsp;

According to the Autism Society of the Philippines, 1 in every 100 Filipinos has ASD, which translates to approximately 1.2 million Filipinos with autism. Autism is a lifelong developmental exceptionality, which affects an individual's ability to socialize, communicate, and adapt to the world around him. Every January, by virtue of a proclamation made by former President Fidel V. Ramos, the Philippines celebrates National Autism Consciousness Week (NACW).&nbsp;

Over the years, several research studies have been conducted and showed that swimming is beneficial for people with ASD because it enhances their motor skills, offers a controlled sensory environment where the feeling of being underwater provides calming tactile input helpful in addressing sensory sensitivities, and building social and communication skills.

<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/16de7f2a-c06c-4781-ebc1-4901e18b3000/public" alt="Image" />&nbsp;DAVAO CITY—On 8 December 2024, Palmer Taliño Taray, a 12-year-old boy from Davao City who has Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), made history as the first autistic child to join and finish the iconic Davao-Samal Cross Channel. The swimming event, which started in Davao City and ended in Samal Island showcased Palmer's unwavering determination and remarkable journey.&nbsp;In total, Davao City to Samal Island has a distance of 1.2 kilometers. However, the course had been challenging not only for Palmer but also for the other participants because it had a water current that made the distance almost more than 3 kilometers.&nbsp;Palmer only started learning to swim in 2023, with no prior experience. Over the past year, his patience and determination were tested as he underwent training sessions four times a week with Master Coach Kirt Loven Murcia and Coach Kevin Palabao, to prepare him mentally and physically for the challenging swim.&nbsp;In a message, Coach Kirt mentioned that he noticed several changes in Palmer's behavior after they started training. He said that because of regular training, the boy was able to relax underwater. He likewise shared that they faced many challenges along the way but he simply trusted the process and continued teaching Palmer, leading to this achievement.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/148dff6a-1a95-4f95-fc4e-823de4956000/public" alt="Palmer Taliño Taray at the finish line together with other participants and coaches" />Palmer's remarkable achievement in the recently-concluded Davao-Samal Cross Channel earned him a 'Special Swimmer Award' in recognition of his incredible feat as an autistic child, who, despite the physical and mental challenges he faced throughout the journey, succeeded in completing the demanding swimming course.&nbsp;In an interview, Palmer's mother, Ms. Jocelyn Taliño Taray said, "The unconditional love, early acceptance, proper diet and training, as well as being surrounded by the right people, were key factors in Palmer's development. With this, I encourage other parents out there to find the right skills and talent for our kids with autism. Don't give up because everything's possible with God's grace, and our determination to find life-long solutions."&nbsp;Further, his sister, Ms. Rochella "Ella" Taliño Taray expressed enthusiasm for Palmer's success, saying, "Promoting awareness on autism and the challenges faced by people who have this kind of disorder is one of my core advocacies. Witnessing Palmer's success today with the support of the entire family and our friends makes me think that nothing is impossible. I hope that in the near future, the government can fund free swimming lessons for children with ASD because we've seen how this positively changed Palmer's behavior and development in just one year."&nbsp;<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/5b73211b-d0d4-4299-0afb-c28872e97d00/public" alt="[L-R: Ms. Jocelyn Taliño Taray (mother), Palmer Taliño Taray, Ms. Rochella "Ella" Taliño Taray (sister)]" />According to the Autism Society of the Philippines, 1 in every 100 Filipinos has ASD, which translates to approximately 1.2 million Filipinos with autism. Autism is a lifelong developmental exceptionality, which affects an individual's ability to socialize, communicate, and adapt to the world around him. Every January, by virtue of a proclamation made by former President Fidel V. Ramos, the Philippines celebrates National Autism Consciousness Week (NACW).&nbsp;Over the years, several research studies have been conducted and showed that swimming is beneficial for people with ASD because it enhances their motor skills, offers a controlled sensory environment where the feeling of being underwater provides calming tactile input helpful in addressing sensory sensitivities, and building social and communication skills.

Event

Breaking Barriers: 12-year-old Autistic Child Makes History by Finishing Davao-Samal Cross Channel Swim

On 28 November 2024, Kilambay Plantation Corporation (KPC) received a plaque of recognition from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) during the celebration of the National Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (NSTW) 2024 at Limketkai Center, Cagayan de Oro City.

KPC was recognized by DOST for its invaluable contributions during the Kawayanihan simultaneous bamboo planting activity held on 18 October 2024, with the aim of attempting to secure a Guinness World Record (GWR) for 'Most People Planting Bamboo Simultaneously Across Multiple Venues'.

During the celebration of the NSTW 2024, DOST officially announced that the Philippines, through the collaborative efforts of the national government and its external partners such as KPC, was able to successfully record a GWR for the previously mentioned category, which consisted of 2,305 participants from various areas in Mindanao.

Together with KPC, Kituved Datu Sepelew Ancestral Domain Management Office (KIDSADMO) CEO Timuey Alfredo Sacayan and Ancestral Domain Management Team (ADMT) Head Timuey Dahil Mampurok also received their own plaques, in appreciation of the significant role played by the Erumanen ne Menuvu tribe during the planting activity and as partner of KPC in Carmen, Cotabato.

In an interview, KPC Chief Operating Officer (COO) Rochella "Ella" Taliño Taray said, "As part of Kilambay Plantation, as part of the Province of Cotabato, I'm happy to be one of the representatives who really fight against climate change to address 'yung mga environmental issues that we are facing today. We're looking for solutions, and I hope na maka inspire rin kami sa mga ibang tao to also continue the advocacy of environmental protection."

She likewise highlighted that while there are still so much to do and the journey towards addressing climate change remains challenging, the Kawayanihan Circular Economy Movement of the DOST serves as a significant step towards a greener future that can be enjoyed by the next generation.

"I hope we continue on, step by step, so we can achieve a greener, more resilient future!," she added.

Meanwhile, KPC Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Jerry John Taray mentioned that, "We hope that this serves as a good start to really inspire more people to join in planting bamboo, because we believe that this is the best way to heal our nature, to address climate change, and also for more sustainable livelihoods for IP communities."

The GWR for "Most People Planting Bamboo Simultaneously Across Multiple Venues' is part of a larger effort of the DOST to spearhead reforestation of degraded or logged over lands within Region XII as well as promote a circular economy through the use of bamboo.

Also present during the NSTW 2024 celebration were DOST Secretary Renato Solidum, Jr., Undersecretary Sancho Mabborang, Undersecretary Teodoro Gatchalian, Regional Director Engr. Sammy Malawan, and other public and private sector representatives. ---

<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/2a1d9b0d-2c2c-4b66-6b41-df5be97fe700/public" alt="Image" />On 28 November 2024, Kilambay Plantation Corporation (KPC) received a plaque of recognition from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) during the celebration of the National Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (NSTW) 2024 at Limketkai Center, Cagayan de Oro City.KPC was recognized by DOST for its invaluable contributions during the Kawayanihan simultaneous bamboo planting activity held on 18 October 2024, with the aim of attempting to secure a Guinness World Record (GWR) for 'Most People Planting Bamboo Simultaneously Across Multiple Venues'.During the celebration of the NSTW 2024, DOST officially announced that the Philippines, through the collaborative efforts of the national government and its external partners such as KPC, was able to successfully record a GWR for the previously mentioned category, which consisted of 2,305 participants from various areas in Mindanao.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/e7df107b-8388-4c83-e701-536f9fe4a200/public" alt="Image" />Together with KPC, Kituved Datu Sepelew Ancestral Domain Management Office (KIDSADMO) CEO Timuey Alfredo Sacayan and Ancestral Domain Management Team (ADMT) Head Timuey Dahil Mampurok also received their own plaques, in appreciation of the significant role played by the Erumanen ne Menuvu tribe during the planting activity and as partner of KPC in Carmen, Cotabato.In an interview, KPC Chief Operating Officer (COO) Rochella "Ella" Taliño Taray said, "As part of Kilambay Plantation, as part of the Province of Cotabato, I'm happy to be one of the representatives who really fight against climate change to address 'yung mga environmental issues that we are facing today. We're looking for solutions, and I hope na maka inspire rin kami sa mga ibang tao to also continue the advocacy of environmental protection."<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/f718b2f8-40ac-4feb-6996-1ad969f41a00/public" alt="Image" />She likewise highlighted that while there are still so much to do and the journey towards addressing climate change remains challenging, the Kawayanihan Circular Economy Movement of the DOST serves as a significant step towards a greener future that can be enjoyed by the next generation."I hope we continue on, step by step, so we can achieve a greener, more resilient future!," she added.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/8070456e-8728-491c-9d75-8c5018d86000/public" alt="Image" />Meanwhile, KPC Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Jerry John Taray mentioned that, "We hope that this serves as a good start to really inspire more people to join in planting bamboo, because we believe that this is the best way to heal our nature, to address climate change, and also for more sustainable livelihoods for IP communities."The GWR for "Most People Planting Bamboo Simultaneously Across Multiple Venues' is part of a larger effort of the DOST to spearhead reforestation of degraded or logged over lands within Region XII as well as promote a circular economy through the use of bamboo.Also present during the NSTW 2024 celebration were DOST Secretary Renato Solidum, Jr., Undersecretary Sancho Mabborang, Undersecretary Teodoro Gatchalian, Regional Director Engr. Sammy Malawan, and other public and private sector representatives. ---

Nature / Weather

Environment / SGDs / Recycling

Agriculture / Forestry / Fisheries

Startups

Government offices / organizations

KPC, DOST bag Guinness World Record for Most People Planting Bamboo

CARMEN, NORTH COTABATO | 18 October 2024— Kilambay Plantation Corporation (KPC), an agricultural startup based in Mindanao, joined the historic KAWAYANIHAN: A Circular Economy Movement on 18 October 2024. KAWAYANIHAN is a large-scale, simultaneous tree planting activity led by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region XII in partnership with other stakeholders. It was held across 20 locations in Mindanao and aimed to set a Guinness World Record for 'Most People Planting Bamboo Simultaneously Across Multiple Venues'.

In her message, KPC's Chief Operating Officer (COO), Ms. Rochella "Ella" Taliño-Taray, emphasized the broader impact of the initiative, stating, "This is more than setting a record, it is a unified statement of hope for future generations." She also highlighted KPC's giant bamboo project's contribution to local livelihoods, sharing that as of date, KPC has employed over 400 indigenous staff and field workers in Carmen. Likewise, she mentioned that the Corporation targets to establish a bamboo processing plant in Carmen that will generate more local jobs in the next few years.

KPC, through the leadership of Ms. Taliño-Taray, was tapped by the DOST Region XII to be its top partner for the attempt in Carmen due to its capability to provide bamboo seedlings in bulk, owning up to it being the biggest bamboo plantation in the entire region. Meanwhile, other participating LGUs had their own partners and funding sources. KPC partnered with other institutions and gathered hundreds of planters in Poblacion, Carmen. In addition, the Provincial Government of Cotabato, through Serbisyong Totoo Program of incumbent Governor Lala Taliño-Mendoza and the Municipal Government of Carmen also co-sponsored the event.

The event saw over 5,000 volunteers and participants planting and geotagging bamboo across 20 locations, including Carmen, Cotabato; Brgy. San Isidro, Talakag; Brgys. Alae, Dalirig, and Maluko in Manolo Fortrich; Brgy. Sta. Fe, Libona; Sta. Ines, Malitbog; Brgy. Puntian, Sumilao; Brgy. Kalusungay, Malaybalay City; Northern Mindanao Agricultural Crops and Livestock Research Complex, Cagayan de Oro City; Brgy Mangandoa, Balingasag; Brgy. Awang, Opol; Brgy. Sta. Ana, Tagoloan; Brgy. Lanise, Claveria; Kapalong, Davao del Norte; Matanao, Davao del Sur; Buenavista, Agusan del Norte; and Leyte in Eastern Visayas.

KAWAYANIHAN is an initiative created to encourage more individuals to plant bamboo in support of the growing demand for bamboo raw materials and spread awareness on the potentials of bamboo to generate jobs and combat climate change. Similarly, it is a step towards fostering greater collaboration between the government and the private sector to bridge gaps in policy making concerning the bamboo industry.

The result of the Guinness World Record Attempt will be announced on 28 November 2024 at Limetkai Center, Cagayan de Oro City, alongside the upcoming 2024 National Science, Technology, and Innovation Week.

Also present during the attempt in Carmen were DOST Undersecretary for Special Concerns Teodoro Gatchalian, DOST Region XII Director Engr. Sammy Malawan, Representative Ma. Alana Samantha T. Santos, Carmen Mayor Rogelio Taliño, KPC Partner and former Agriculture Secretary Luis Ramon P. Lorenzo, KPC Chief Executive Officer Jerry John Taray, and other public and private sector representatives. ---

<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/07d1a51c-6ff1-47cc-e812-ddd627c5a200/public" alt="[L-R: KPC CEO Jerry John Taray; Indigenous Leader Timuey Dahil Mampurok; KPC Partner and former Agriculture Secretary Luis Ramon P. Lorenzo; KPC COO Rochella "Ella" Taliño-Taray]" />CARMEN, NORTH COTABATO | 18 October 2024— Kilambay Plantation Corporation (KPC), an agricultural startup based in Mindanao, joined the historic KAWAYANIHAN: A Circular Economy Movement on 18 October 2024. KAWAYANIHAN is a large-scale, simultaneous tree planting activity led by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region XII in partnership with other stakeholders. It was held across 20 locations in Mindanao and aimed to set a Guinness World Record for 'Most People Planting Bamboo Simultaneously Across Multiple Venues'.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/1af755c5-5f1f-4a7b-49e1-37b69aff7500/public" alt="[IN PHOTO: KPC COO Rochella "Ella" Taliño-Taray delivering her message of support during the event" />In her message, KPC's Chief Operating Officer (COO), Ms. Rochella "Ella" Taliño-Taray, emphasized the broader impact of the initiative, stating, "This is more than setting a record, it is a unified statement of hope for future generations." She also highlighted KPC's giant bamboo project's contribution to local livelihoods, sharing that as of date, KPC has employed over 400 indigenous staff and field workers in Carmen. Likewise, she mentioned that the Corporation targets to establish a bamboo processing plant in Carmen that will generate more local jobs in the next few years.KPC, through the leadership of Ms. Taliño-Taray, was tapped by the DOST Region XII to be its top partner for the attempt in Carmen due to its capability to provide bamboo seedlings in bulk, owning up to it being the biggest bamboo plantation in the entire region. Meanwhile, other participating LGUs had their own partners and funding sources. KPC partnered with other institutions and gathered hundreds of planters in Poblacion, Carmen. In addition, the Provincial Government of Cotabato, through Serbisyong Totoo Program of incumbent Governor Lala Taliño-Mendoza and the Municipal Government of Carmen also co-sponsored the event.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/b688b099-85b6-4f99-c518-1408c66b6f00/public" alt="Aerial view of the planters in Carmen, Cotabato during the Guinness World Record Attempt" />The event saw over 5,000 volunteers and participants planting and geotagging bamboo across 20 locations, including Carmen, Cotabato; Brgy. San Isidro, Talakag; Brgys. Alae, Dalirig, and Maluko in Manolo Fortrich; Brgy. Sta. Fe, Libona; Sta. Ines, Malitbog; Brgy. Puntian, Sumilao; Brgy. Kalusungay, Malaybalay City; Northern Mindanao Agricultural Crops and Livestock Research Complex, Cagayan de Oro City; Brgy Mangandoa, Balingasag; Brgy. Awang, Opol; Brgy. Sta. Ana, Tagoloan; Brgy. Lanise, Claveria; Kapalong, Davao del Norte; Matanao, Davao del Sur; Buenavista, Agusan del Norte; and Leyte in Eastern Visayas.KAWAYANIHAN is an initiative created to encourage more individuals to plant bamboo in support of the growing demand for bamboo raw materials and spread awareness on the potentials of bamboo to generate jobs and combat climate change. Similarly, it is a step towards fostering greater collaboration between the government and the private sector to bridge gaps in policy making concerning the bamboo industry.The result of the Guinness World Record Attempt will be announced on 28 November 2024 at Limetkai Center, Cagayan de Oro City, alongside the upcoming 2024 National Science, Technology, and Innovation Week.Also present during the attempt in Carmen were DOST Undersecretary for Special Concerns Teodoro Gatchalian, DOST Region XII Director Engr. Sammy Malawan, Representative Ma. Alana Samantha T. Santos, Carmen Mayor Rogelio Taliño, KPC Partner and former Agriculture Secretary Luis Ramon P. Lorenzo, KPC Chief Executive Officer Jerry John Taray, and other public and private sector representatives. ---