BOTOLAN, Zambales — Farmers here are set to benefit from new farming equipment provided through a partnership between the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) here and two mining companies, aimed at improving agricultural productivity and strengthening community-based livelihoods.
Marife Castillo, DENR provincial head in Zambales, said the DENR, Zambales Diversified Metals Corporation (ZDMC), and Zambales Chromite Mining Company, Inc. (ZCMCI) turned over farming implements and equipment to the Loob-Bunga Agro-Ecotourism Farmers Association, Inc. during a ceremony held in Barangay Nacolcol.
“The assistance is expected to help the farmers improve their agricultural activities and ease the labor requirements of farm work, while providing them with additional capacity to pursue agro-ecotourism and other community-based livelihood activities,” Castillo explained.
The turnover was formalized through a Memorandum of Agreement among the participating parties. Under the agreement, the farmers’ association will also be responsible for the maintenance and protection of a 9-hectare National Greening Program bamboo plantation within its area of responsibility.
DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo said livelihood support can help communities become more capable partners in environmental protection.
“This is more than just a turnover of tools. It is an investment in the future of Zambales. By aligning community initiatives with sustainable forest management, we ensure that agro-ecotourism becomes a lasting source of livelihood while preserving our natural heritage for generations to come,” Pablo said.
The initiative forms part of the DENR’s continuing efforts to promote sustainable livelihood opportunities among communities engaged in forest management. Through partnerships with the private sector and local communities, the DENR seeks to strengthen the capacity of people’s organizations to develop productive enterprises while helping protect and sustainably manage forest resources. (UnliNews Online)
