San Pablo aims to break record for coconut planting

LAGUNA, Philippines — In a bid to breathe new life into its coconut industry and secure a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records, San Pablo City is gearing up to plant over 10,000 coconut seedlings in just 15 minutes on Aug. 29.

The Guinness record for the most coconuts planted within a 24-hour period is held by Nagapattinam District in India.

San Pablo was formerly recognized as the coconut industry capital of the Philippines due to its historical ties with the Franklin Baker Co., which was once Asia’s largest desiccated coconut factory and is now owned by businessman Manuel V. Pangilinan.

Organizers hope the event will spark similar initiatives across the country and encourage other local government units to invest in long-term environmental and agricultural programs.

The main planting site will be located on a vacant lot across the Dalubhasaang Lungsod ng San Pablo in Barangay San Jose.