DAR holds business planning course for indigenous people

The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in partnership with the National Commission of Indigenous People (NCIP) conducted a farm business planning course for the indigenous people of Monkayo, Compostela Valley.

The business course under the Second Agrarian Reform Communities Development Program (ARCDP-2) was developed to provide trainings on the development of agri-based materials to equip farmers with technical know-how in cultivating and managing farm-based enterprises.

Initially, 25 indigenous people (IPs) were trained on how to start and expand small business using indigenous products that thrive in their community. At present, the IP’s are now involved in hollow block making and fruit production from banana and durian.

Secretary Nasser C. Pangandaman said that through this course, the IPs are now earning extra money out of their ancestral land. This also encourages them to take care of their natural resources which are abundant in their area.

NCIP chairman Percival Chavez, meanwhile, lauded the program’s goal of making the indigenous people self-sufficient and productive. "The IPs are able to identify their needs and using these materials, they are also able to hone their creativity and craftsmanship," he said.

Municipal tribal chieftain of Monkayo Datu Rosalino Andresan, expressed gratitude to DAR and NCIP for extending assistance to their tribal community. "Our long wait is over. The government has finally provided us with a sustainable program that we can share to our tribesmen," he said.