On 30 September, the Xavier Ateneo Lands Office conducted a coconut tree planting on the university land property in Maramag. The University partnered with the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) Region-10 Office to initiate the activity. The PCA Region-10, under Mr Manuel Octubre, donated hundreds of seedlings to the XU Lands Office for planting in dedicated areas.

University President Fr Mars P Tan SJ, Basic Education chaplains Fr Ruben Reyes SJ and Fr Arman Samonte SJ, and XU Lands Officer James Borcillo actively led the first day of the 3-day tree planting activity, during which they primarily dug holes and planted coconut seedlings.

Jesuit Fathers joining the coco tree planting

The decision to plant coconut trees on university property in partnership with a government agency is a strategic approach to education and environmental stewardship. Coconut trees possess not only economic significance but also contribute to ecological and environmental conservation.

Xavier University Ateneo de Cagayan commits to promoting coconut planting to generate income for the apostolic works of the school while keeping various fruit trees and plants on the land for environmental integrity. The project serves as a testament to the university’s dedication to its education mission and the environment.

New coconut seedlings (encircled) planted along the main lane of the property.

Coconut seedlings from Philippine Coconut Authority temporarily kept in XU main campus