MALITA, Davao Occidental | November 9, 2026 — The Southern Philippines Agri-Business and Marine and Aquatic School of Technology (SPAMAST) joined the Municipality of Malita in celebrating its 89th Araw ng Malita, reaffirming its commitment to community partnership, agricultural innovation, and local development during the opening ceremony held on November 9, 2026, at Liberty Park, Malita, Davao Occidental.
Representing SPAMAST President Dr. Lynette A. Bontia during the opening ceremony were Dr. Edelyn S. Albiso, Vice President for Research, Innovation, Development and Extension (VPRIDE), and Mr. Edwin Ostique, Director for Finance. Their participation highlighted the College’s continuing engagement with the local government and its support for initiatives that recognize Malita’s cultural identity, economic potential, and community achievements.
The five-day celebration, running from November 9 to 13, features various activities showcasing the municipality’s heritage, agricultural productivity, creativity, and civic participation. Among its major attractions is the Payag sa Barangay Contest and Agri-Trade Fair, where participating barangays present their local agricultural and fishery commodities, value-added products, cultural heritage, and craftsmanship through exhibits inspired by the Coastal, Lowland, and Upland eco-zones.
The opening activities featured the raising of barangay banners, the presentation of the official municipal logo, and the ceremonial ribbon-cutting for the Payag sa Barangay exhibits and Agri-Trade Fair booths. The celebration also includes sports competitions, cultural presentations, and community activities, culminating in the recognition of outstanding citizens and competition winners on November 13, alongside the State of the Municipality Address of Mayor Benjamin P. Bautista Jr.
SPAMAST’s participation underscores its role as an academic institution committed to advancing agricultural and fisheries education, research, innovation, and extension services while maintaining meaningful partnerships with local government and communities. Through these engagements, the College continues to support initiatives that promote local enterprise, preserve cultural heritage, and encourage community-driven development.
The celebration and SPAMAST’s participation are aligned with five United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2: Zero Hunger, through agricultural and fisheries promotion; SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, through livelihood and local enterprise development; SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, through innovation and value-added production; SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, through cultural heritage preservation and community participation; and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, through strengthened collaboration between SPAMAST and the Municipality of Malita. These shared efforts highlight the importance of institutional cooperation and community participation in advancing inclusive, resilient, and sustainable local development.
