CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)  collaborated to enhance the market presence of eco-friendly products by supporting Forest Fest 2024. 

Ayala Malls Centrio will host Forest Fest 2024, a partnership between Forest Foundation Philippines (FFP) and The Spark Project, from April 18 to 20. The event will serve as a platform to showcase forest-based Mindanaoan products and empower enterprises dedicated to protecting and conserving the region's forests.

“Through platforms like this, we are able to discuss, exchange ideas, and learn from various sectors and stakeholders with whom we share a common goal, which is to ensure sustainable management of the forest and the natural resources therein,” said DENR-10 Forrester Roel Dahonog.

For his part, Ruel B. Paclipan, DTI regional director, stated the agency has established a partnership with the FFP through their Rural Agro-Enterprise Partnership for Inclusive Development and Growth (RAPID Growth) project.

“Our partnership hinges on the advocacy of sustainable agriculture and development practices for our farmers and entrepreneurs, such as in the fields of coffee, cacao, coconut, and processed foods, with the goal of increasing the income of our farmers,” he said.

During the three-day affair, participants will have the opportunity to engage in experiential workshops, talks, and exhibitions highlighting initiatives and products that champion forest protection and conservation in Bukidnon and Misamis Oriental.

Additionally, a Grant and Partnership Forum will provide attendees with access to valuable opportunities to explore grant funding and partnership avenues facilitated by the Forest Foundation Philippines.

 “There are many challenges facing our forests; it is important to grow advocates, livelihoods, and other opportunities to be able to face these challenges," said Karissa Bautista, enterprise development specialist of the Forest Foundation Philippines, citing that it is important to provide awareness and emphasis on the importance of forests and biodiversity.

Moreover, Patch Dulay, the founder and CEO of The Spark Project, remarked that the Philippines is exceptionally biodiverse yet often overlooked in celebration. He expressed that Forest Fest presents a valuable opportunity to amplify advocacy efforts, raise awareness regarding the present condition of forests, and identify motivations for their preservation.

Dulay emphasized the importance of viewing these endeavors through the lenses of entrepreneurship and social entrepreneurship.

Forest Fest 2024 is a collaborative endeavor between Forest Foundation Philippines and The Spark Project, with the support of Ayala Malls Centrio, the Association of Young Environmental Journalists (AYEJ), Talarak Foundation Inc., and Xavier Science Foundation. (JMOR/PIA-10)