300-kilo ‘kesong puti’ highlight of Ecija’s Linggo ng Magsasaka

Talavera town officials and guests partake of a giant kesong puti during this year’s Linggo ng Magsasaka in Nueva Ecija province. Photo by Armand Galang

TALAVERA, NUEVA ECIJA – A 300-kilogram “kesong puti (white cheese)” was the highlight of this year’s Linggo ng Magsasaka, which honored the province’s farmers in ceremonies held on Wednesday (May 9).

The 180-centimeter-long bar of white cheese was made of 400 kg of raw carabao milk, to also commemorate the 12th Gatas ng Kalabaw Festival and the feast of the town’s patron saint, San Isidro Labrador.

The festivities started with a Mass, followed by colorful street dances performed by students of the Talavera National High School, Bulac National High School, San Ricardo National High School, Tabacao National High School and Sibul National High School.

Arnel del Barrio, executive director of the Philippine Carabao Center, said Linggo ng Magsasaka also promotes activities and programs that help farmers earn more when producing affordable food amid a changing climate.

Talavera farmers produce rice and vegetables used to make “pinakbet.”