By Rick P. Quiambao | Philippine Information Agency | September 1, 2026

(PHOTO: PIA)

IBA, Zambales (PIA) — A government-private sector partnership is helping farmers in Botolan, Zambales improve agricultural productivity while strengthening their role in protecting forest resources and developing sustainable community-based livelihoods.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), together with Zambales Diversified Metals Corporation and Zambales Chromite Mining Company, Inc., provided farming implements and equipment to the Loob-Bunga Agro-Ecotourism Farmers Association, Inc. during a turnover ceremony in Barangay Nacolcol.

According to DENR Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office Zambales chief Marife Castillo, the assistance will help farmers improve their agricultural activities, reduce the labor needed for farm work, and expand their capacity to engage in agro-ecotourism and other community-based livelihood activities.

A Memorandum of Agreement formalized the partnership among the DENR, the two mining companies, and the farmers’ association.

Under the agreement, the farmers’ association will also maintain and protect a 9-hectare National Greening Program bamboo plantation within its area of responsibility.

DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo said livelihood assistance can make communities more capable partners in environmental protection.

“This is more than just a turnover of tools. It is an investment in the future of Zambales. By aligning community initiatives with sustainable forest management, we ensure that agro-ecotourism becomes a lasting source of livelihood while preserving our natural heritage for generations to come,” Pablo said.

Part of the DENR’s continuing efforts to promote sustainable livelihood opportunities among communities engaged in forest management, the initiative links income-generating activities with environmental protection.

Partnerships with the private sector and local communities also enable the DENR to strengthen people’s organizations in developing productive enterprises while helping protect and sustainably manage forest resources.

The effort supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable development by helping rural communities build livelihood opportunities while contributing to the responsible management of the country’s natural resources. (CLJD/RPQ, PIA Region 3-Zambales)

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Zambales Diversified Metals Corporation, and Zambales Chromite Mining Company, Inc. turn over farming implements and equipment to the Loob-Bunga Agro-Ecotourism Farmers Association, Inc. in Barangay Nacolcol, Botolan, Zambales, to support agricultural productivity and community-based livelihood activities. (DENR)

Source: Philippine Information Agency