DAVAO CITY (November 3)– The B’laan tribe of Davao del Sur will partner with the Department of Agriculture (DA) for the development of a model farm in the municipality of Matanao.
The initiative, to be undertaken under the Kabuhayan at Kaunlaran ng Kababayang Katutubo (4Ks) program with funding from DA’s Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD), is part of the government’s efforts of empowering the indigenous people (IPs) to enable them to rise from poverty.
“Under our management, the Department has developed a program for IPs. In fact, this is the first time that we have delegated someone to act as the National IP coordinator,” Agriculture Secretary Manny F. Piñol said.
During the dialogue between the agri chief and tribe members, the former assured that the program will deliver immediate, medium and long-term solutions.
Piñol directed the SAAD program to create a coordinating group for the establishment of a multiplier farm of native pigs. DA will also provide seedlings of coffee, cacao, abaca, and black pepper for, and will involve the IPs in planting fast-growing trees like falcata and gmelina.
“Farmers who will be planting trees will be given P2.00 incentive per tree,” Piñol announced.
“We will also assist you in finding partners for your produce,” he said.
Piñol said that the IP group from Arakan, North Cotabato is already supplying at least 15 tons per week purple yam and white camote to a Bulacan-based snack company.
“A big ice cream company is also interested in buying ube from the same group,” he said.
During their meeting Piñol urged the tribal leaders to coordinate with the regional office of DA and identify area for farm-to-market roads. He said the identify FMR proposal will be included in the 2020 budget.
The tribal communities have started visiting different government agencies from October 25 to October 31 to raise issues and concern from the Indigenous group in the country.
The Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act of 1997 recognizes, protects and promotes the rights of indigenous cultural communities and indigenous peoples.- Kristel Merle, DA-AFID
