TABUK CITY, Kalinga – The Department of Science and Technology here is collaborating with the Apostolic Vicariate of Tabuk-Social Action Center for sustainable socioeconomic projects in three barangays in the city.
The DOST, the city government, and Social Action Center represented by Rev. Fr. Jeorge Manisem signed a memorandum of understanding for the Green Luzon Project, a four-year initiative funded by Caritas Spain. It aims to develop the beneficiary barangays through civil society empowerment, provision of livelihood, establishment of agro-enterprises, and strengthening of disaster risk management, under an environmentally sustainable approach.
“We are focused now on giving livelihood to the people of Suyang, Balawag, and Amlao. Honestly speaking, we do not have the capacity to do all these things so we need partners. It’s good that we are partners with the (Kalinga provincial government) and also the Tabuk City government, and DOST,” Manisem said.
They are eyeing the development of the areas’ eco-tourism potential to provide a sustainable livelihood to residents.
Manisem said the communities also hope to develop bamboo, cacao, and coffee industries; establish community enterprises such as a rice mill, water refilling, and weaving for the women; and grow agro-enterprises, starting with the provision of seedlings for calamansi, ginger, sili, and ube.
Towards the efficient and sustainable implementation of the Green Luzon Project, the DOST is tapping other agencies for their expertise.
Tabuk City Mayor Darwin Estrañero assured the support of the city government in the implementation of the project that promotes socio-economic development with an environmentally sustainable approach. – Iryll Gay O. Sicnao
