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.
The article spoke about Community-Based Forest Management (CBFM) Program in that members were trained on reforestation and forest preservation practices and on the sustainable use of resources. It equally 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.
The idea of CBFM encourages me to see entrepreneurship in a different perspective. 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. Translating what CBFM has done in the business dimension, this reinforces the belief that creativity and innovation can be used to create and transform a business that is not only relevant but is also purpose driven.
Due to lack of information and/or exposure, perhaps, the usual inclination of aspiring entrepreneurs like me is to venture into the food business. Others opt to go into something technology related or garments and knick-knacks oriented (as is those sold in bazaars). The idea to venture into something like farming for instance has not really been an idea at the top of my list. A case in point, when land is available, typical reaction would be to think of what gasoline station, restaurant or convenience store one can put up in that location. Supposing that idle land is located in the mountains or in remote areas, most often than not, this is left idle.
This leads me to see idle land, especially in far flung areas as huge areas of opportunity. With the market to export mahogany in high demand, with the increased concern for climate change, with the recurrence of calamities caused by floods and landslides, with the real need to provide sustainable sources of income for a countrymen in remote areas a vision to incorporate all of these needs and prospects into something executable and viable has great prospects. This calls to mind how many idle lands we have in the country. How land owners and entrepreneurs can venture into farming and even forest management, explore the traction being gained from this enterprise, provide employment and aid in the protection of our natural resources. With close coordination and monitoring from Department of Environment and Natural Resources and perhaps TESDA this can be done in a highly sustainable and effective manner.
To end, success is not only measured in terms of how profitable the business is. It is also measured in terms of its ability to make a difference. How promising and rewarding it must be to get into that kind of business.
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