By Matthew Go
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) have entered into a groundbreaking agreement with indigenous groups in Mindoro to protect the region’s biodiversity and promote green jobs. The formalization of this partnership took place last week, with a focus on implementing sustainable practices that will preserve the island’s rich ecosystems while creating eco-friendly employment opportunities for local communities.
The collaboration will involve the participation of indigenous peoples in forest restoration and sustainable agriculture projects, offering them a direct role in preserving their environment. The agreement highlights the value of indigenous knowledge in environmental conservation, with the parties involved stressing that community engagement is crucial for the success of both conservation efforts and the generation of sustainable livelihoods.
This initiative is part of the government’s broader effort to harmonize environmental protection with economic development, ensuring that conservation goals do not come at the expense of the local economy. Environmental groups have praised the partnership, calling for continued cooperation and the inclusion of community feedback to ensure the program’s long-term success.
This pact represents a significant step in integrating biodiversity protection with the economic needs of Mindoro’s indigenous population, providing a model for sustainable development that could be replicated in other parts of the country.