MANOLO FORTICH, Bukidnon (PIA)--To further support the sustainable development of indigenous communities, five indigenous peoples (IP) associations in the towns of Impasugong and Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon received P500,000 worth of livelihood projects from Hedcor, the renewable energy subsidiary of AboitizPower and Aboitiz Foundation.

Agriculture supplies and inputs were distributed among several indigenous cooperatives, including Guilang-Guilang Apo Datu Nanikunan Association Inc., Lumikapaw Ka Guihean Tribal Council of Elders, and Santiago Tribal Community SANTRICO, Inc. 

The Impakibel Apo Man Asilan Tribal Association also received equipment and feeds for free-range chicken farming, while Buklod Kayantang Tribal Association Inc. received seedlings and planting materials to bolster Abaca production.

"Pag-uma ang nag-unang panginabuhian namo dinhi sa kabukiran busa kinasingkasing ang among pagpasalamat sa Hedcor tungod sa livelihood assistance nga ilang gihatag kanamo. Maningkamut mi nga palambuon ang ilang gihatag kay makatabang kini nga madungagan ang kita sa matag pamilya nga miyembro sa among mga nagkadaiyang asosasyon (Farming is our main source of livelihood in the mountains, so we are deeply grateful to Hedcor for the livelihood assistance they have given us. We are committed to managing and growing what they have provided because it will help increase the income of each family member in our various associations)," said Datu Santos Bayaon, tribal leader of Santiago Tribal Community SANTRICO, Inc., during the turnover ceremony.

The National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) recognizes Hedcor as a strong partner in fostering sustainability and cultural sensitivity while ensuring the preservation and promotion of indigenous peoples, particularly in Bukidnon province.

"We pledge to maintain our partnership and collaboration with Hedcor, honoring our indigenous peoples and providing them with economic opportunities through livelihood initiatives," said Jerry Trecero, Tribal Affairs Assistant of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples in Manolo Fortich.

With a vision for positive change, Hedcor President and COO Rolando G. Pacquiao emphasized that the intervention is focused on strengthening the IPs' capabilities. 

"Hedcor is committed to empowering indigenous communities, aiming to make a meaningful difference towards a more inclusive society and a greener future," Pacquiao said. (KM, Hedcor-AboitizPower/PIA Bukidnon)