‘Tree of life’ celebration for 10 days in Quezon

For generations, the vast coconut fields in Quezon province have been the source of livelihood for its people. But typhoons that frequently ravaged the areas have rendered most of the trees unproductive.

The depressing situation has prompted farmers and local governments to join hands to rehabilitate, protect and promote the coconut industry, engaging in such endeavors as the holding of the “Niyogyugan” festival in Lucena City to celebrate Quezon’s main product—the coconut, also known as the “tree of life.”

“The festival symbolizes the celebration of life of the Quezonians. And through the Niyogyugan festival, we are giving not only the province but the nation a reason why we need to protect this industry,”

Gov. David Suarez said. Niyogyugan is derived from “niyog” (coconut) and “yugyog” (to shake or move to a fast beat).

The event, first held in 2012, was conceptualized by Quezon Rep. Aleta Suarez, not only to give tribute to the palm tree but also to promote tourism and locally produced coconut products. Last year, it was cancelled after “Typhoon Glenda” (international name: Rammasun) devastated coconut farms.

Agri-tourism exposition

As the industry is recovering with several government projects and programs being undertaken, this year’s Niyugyogan was held for 10 days, ending yesterday, with a focus on an agri-tourism exposition. It used to be a week-long fun, dance, and riotous gaiety.

Colorful and unique booths built from coconut tree parts by craftsmen from 37 participating towns were put up around the sunken Perez Park, the festival venue. Coconut shell decors were painted with eye-catching hues, while woven coconut fibers were wrapped around some of the coconut lumber pillars to add elegance to the already vibrant structures.

The booths were artistically designed to house the wide range of products that represent each municipality. Each depicted the rich culture and beauty of their town.

A variety of fresh seafood, organic vegetables, native “buri” bags, bracelets and necklaces from seashells, herbal medical concoctions and indigenous coconut byproducts were among the items on sale.

“We have to show the other towns that we have our own beautiful products that we can offer,” said Mayor Rodante Potes of Infanta town.

The town’s “suman” (glutinous rice cake wrapped in banana leaves) was an instant hit, selling an average of 700 bundles (25 pieces per bundle) at P80 each daily.

According to Roberto Gajo, head of the provincial agriculture office, first-day sales reached P1.2 million.

The “kapitolyo” lit up in colors of green, blue, yellow and red, and more hues during night time. “Just like the lights of Las Vegas,” a bystander told his friends.

People from all walks of life swarmed in front of the lighted heritage structure to take selfies for uploading in social networking sites.

On Aug. 10, a breathtaking fireworks display, paired with the Capitol building’s dancing and colorful lights, brightened the dawn sky as the festival opened officially. A bevy of 22 beautiful contestants for the search for the festival muse graced the opening, all wearing intricately designed costumes made from coconut trees.

Fans shrieked in excitement as television heartthrob Alden Richards, the other half of the phenomenal “Aldub” love team, serenaded the contestants in the “Bb. Niyogyugan” beauty pageant during coronation night on Aug. 12 at the Quezon Convention Center (QCC). Coralin Resurreccion of Sariaya town bagged the title.

On Aug. 15, 22 coconut-inspired floats from different towns, escorted by street dancers, transformed the streets of Lucena into a mobile tableau of local arts and culture.

Young women screamed as the float carrying popular stars JC De Vera and Sam Pinto passed. They rushed to get their cell phones to snap photos of their idols waving at them.

Despite the hot afternoon sun, the street dancers clapped, cheered and grooved to the funky Niyogyugan beat as they approached the air-conditioned QCC dome. The delegation from Dolores town bagged the championship trophy, its second since 2013.

Calauag town received the best float award, while Tagkawayan performers were declared champion street dancers. The winners received cash prizes.

The booths of Sariaya (Category A) and San Narciso (Category B) bagged the top prize of P3 million worth of projects each from the provincial government.

Popular bands, Silent Sanctuary and Rocksteddy, rocked the Cocojam concert at the Perez Park on Monday and Tuesday.

The floral offering at the monument of the late President Manuel L. Quezon to commemorate his 137th birthday and the “Quezon Medalya ng Karangalan” awards were given yesterday as closing activities of the festival.