BALANGA CITY (PIA) — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has strengthened livelihood opportunities for a forest-dependent farmers’ group in Bagac, Bataan through the turnover of a cashew processing facility under its Community-Based Forest Management (CBFM) program.
This initiative forms part of the national government’s efforts under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to strengthen community-based livelihood enterprises and promote sustainable forest management.
Barangay Small Coconut Farmers Association of Parang, Inc. (BSCFAPI), a holder of a CBFM agreement, received the facility through the DENR’s CBFM Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program.
DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo said the project will help the association increase the value of its agricultural products, expand income opportunities, and strengthen the economic resilience of the upland community.
“BSCFAPI’s efforts show how forest communities can improve their livelihood while protecting the natural resources they depend on, especially so with the proper support from the government,” Pablo said.
Aside from cashew processing, the association has also tapped coconut resources in its area to produce buko pie, creating another marketable product for members.
To further strengthen the group’s enterprise operations, Bataan Peninsula State University provided technical training on enterprise management and product development.
Meanwhile, DENR Community Environment and Natural Resources Office Bagac Head Brenda Clemente said the association has secured a stable market outlet for its products through a partnership with the Hermosa Ecozone in Bataan.
The initiative supports Executive Order No. 263, which recognizes the role of local communities and indigenous peoples in the protection, rehabilitation, development, and management of forestlands and coastal resources.
Through the CBFM program, the DENR continues to provide legal and technical assistance to communities to promote equitable access to natural resources while advancing sustainable livelihood opportunities and forest protection efforts. (Rick P. Quiambao)
