Forest Guarding Initiative Launched to Safeguard Ancestral Domain in Davao Oriental
In a significant stride towards environmental conservation and sustainable development, the BaiAni Foundation and Kennemer Eco Solution have expressed strong support for the Provincial Tribal Council-Mandaya and Kagan Cultural group of Davao Oriental in their role as stewards of the land. The organizations aim to protect the ancestral lands through the establishment and operationalization of a viable Forest Guarding system, with the full support of various local entities.
To initiate this important effort, a training and workshop for aspiring Forest Protectors was conducted on May 15-16. The program focused on educating and familiarizing 20 pre-selected Forest Guards from the MATI CADT with CADT No. R11-MAT-0219-243 and the Tarragona CADT with No. R11-TAR-08018-225 about their roles, responsibilities, and basic environmental laws. This program aims to equip them with the necessary knowledge before they officially assume their duties.
Almart Martije, a 31-year-old aspiring Forest Guard and member of the Mandaya tribe from Brgy. Don Salvador Lopez, Davao Oriental, expressed his joy and pride in being involved in the protection of their Ancestral Domain. He emphasized the deep-rooted connection that Indigenous Peoples have with the land and the natural world, highlighting their ancestral role as stewards of the forests for generations.
Provincial Tribal Council Chairman Eleuterio Manaytay emphasized the significance of the Forest Guarding System in assisting Indigenous Peoples in fulfilling their responsibilities. He stated that the Forest Guards will play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and restoring denuded areas within their ancestral domain. The plan is to deploy a total of 100 Forest Guards across 11 CADTs in the province to combat deforestation.
This collaborative effort, supported by the local government unit (LGU), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Philippine National Police (PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), reflects a commitment to environmental law enforcement and sustainable practices. By empowering Indigenous Peoples as Forest Guards, the initiative aims to preserve the rich biodiversity and cultural heritage of Davao Oriental's ancestral lands, while contributing to broader efforts in environmental conservation.
The forest guarding initiative is an important component of the Mindanao Forest for People and Sustainable Livelihoods (MinFor) project. The forest guard training in Davao Oriental serves as an exemplar of how empowering local communities can effectively protect the environment and promote sustainable development. By providing training and necessary equipment, Indigenous Peoples are empowered to safeguard their ancestral lands and the valuable natural resources they hold. This program sets a remarkable example for other communities, inspiring them to follow suit in their efforts to protect the environment and advance sustainable development.
As the forest guard training program continues to progress, it is anticipated that Davao Oriental will witness an enhanced conservation environment, empowered Indigenous communities, and increased participation in preserving their invaluable natural heritage.
