Photo By: DENR Region 3
CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga — Farmers in Bagac, Bataan are expected to improve their income opportunities following the turnover of a cashew processing facility by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) under its Community-Based Forest Management (CBFM) Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program.
The facility was awarded to the Barangay Small Coconut Farmers Association of Parang, Inc. (BSCFAPI), a people’s organization and holder of a CBFM Agreement in Bagac, Bataan, as part of the government’s continuing efforts to strengthen sustainable livelihoods in upland communities.
DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo said the project will enable the association to add value to its agricultural products, diversify its income streams, and improve the economic resilience of its members.
“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.
Photo By: DENR Region 3
The newly provided processing facility is expected to enhance the group’s cashew production operations and open more market opportunities for locally processed products.
Aside from cashew processing, the association has also developed coconut-based products such as buko pie, providing additional livelihood opportunities for members of the organization.
To further strengthen the group’s enterprise capabilities, Bataan Peninsula State University provided technical training focused on enterprise management and product development.
According to Brenda Clemente, the association has already secured a stable market for its products through a partnership with the Hermosa Ecozone.
The initiative forms part of the implementation of Executive Order No. 263, which recognizes the vital 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, technical, and livelihood assistance to people’s organizations to promote sustainable forest management while creating economic opportunities for communities dependent on natural resources.