New Attitude/ Paradigm: Community-Based Forest Management
One of the statements that National Geographic used to describe the Philippines struck a chord. It said, "Poverty and deforestation mar the islands' many charms."[1] Filipinos have grown accustomed to this reality that we tend to be resigned to or are apathetic towards the wanting state of our country and our countrymen. Often times, focus is overly placed on the negative that many resources and strengths that the Philippines possess tend to be forgotten.
An article in the Philippine Daily Inquirer last Sunday served as a reminder and affirmation that a change in paradigm coupled with the right attitude and support can make a lot of difference. The article talked about the Young Innovators for Social and Environmental Development Association (Yiseda), a non profit organization from Maasin, Southern Leyte whose work focuses on reforestation, argo-forestry, animal raising and alternative livelihood.
Yiseda subscribed to the Community-Based Forest Management (CBFM) Program in that members were trained on reforestation and forest preservation practices and on the sustainable use of resources. Members of forest communities were equally trained on livelihood programs to provide for their basic needs, aid in poverty alleviation and prevent from the premature harvest of trees.
The article highlighted how the group proceeded to harvest mahogany trees from the 500 hectare land that it tilled for the past 19 years. Proceeds from the hardwood will flow back to the members of the community. To ensure continuity and protection of the forest, Yiseda committed to planting 300 seedlings for every tree that was cut.
CBFM not only aimed to address two of the most vital issues the country is faced with, poverty and deforestation, but it also allowed for a sustainable solution that is able to reconcile both areas of concern. Coupled with the right training and support system, much of the success of CBFM is anchored on collaboration (in the vernacular bayanihan), responsible stewardship, hard work, perseverance and a long-term mindset. The arduous wait for almost two decades is clear indication that this is no dole out and that it seeks to be a sustainable solution to an endemic problem.
Cognizant of how far back the program was initiated, the question of what we can now do as citizens of this country and residents of this earth comes to the surface. Although conceived many years back, there is still so much value on the program and its outcomes because it focused on something that is relevant. Now more than ever, the call to action should not only be one that is able to make a difference but one that is of relevance for peoples and for the world.
Creativity and innovation then should not only be applied in the context of businesses. More so, opportunities for positivism, for transformation and to think out of the box should also be harnessed to address social problems and concerns as what social entrepreneurs like Illiac Diaz and organizations like Yiseda have done.
1 comments:
Hi. JS Please think of a new one. Maybe how do you use a community based program for your project, for your business? Thanks. Or choose an easier topic?
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