&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.

Fitness / Healthcare

Welfare / Nursing / Rehabilitation

Sports

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. ---