Farmers in Botolan, Zambales are set to benefit from new farming equipment provided through a partnership between the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and two mining firms to boost agricultural productivity and strengthen sustainable community livelihoods.

DENR Zambales provincial head Marife Castillo said the agency, Zambales Diversified Metals Corporation (ZDMC), and Zambales Chromite Mining Company, Inc. (ZCMCI) turned over farming implements and equipment to the Loob-Bunga Agro-Ecotourism Farmers Association, Inc. in Barangay Nacolcol.

Castillo said the assistance is expected to ease farm work, improve agricultural activities, and enhance the association’s capacity to pursue agro-ecotourism and other livelihood initiatives.

The turnover was formalized through a Memorandum of Agreement, under which the farmers’ association will also maintain and protect a 9-hectare National Greening Program bamboo plantation within its area of responsibility.

DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo described the initiative as an investment in sustainable livelihoods and environmental protection.

He said aligning community livelihood programs with sustainable forest management could help make agro-ecotourism a lasting source of income while protecting Zambales’ natural resources.

The initiative is part of the DENR’s continuing efforts to strengthen community-based enterprises through partnerships with the private sector and local communities while promoting sustainable forest management.