People’s group gets cash aid from DENR 7

THE Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) 7 allotted P300,000 for alternative livelihood projects for a people’s organization that operated an eco-tour in the Olango Island bird sanctuary.

DENR 7 Regional Executive Director Dr. Isabelo R. Montejo said the funds come from the Integrated Coastal Resources Management Project's (ICRMP) enterprise development and income diversification program.

The grant will be used to teach the women in the group to prepare food for tourists, and buy snorkel equipment and paddle boats that will be used for the bird watching tours in the mangrove areas.

"This is a manifestation of maintaining a strong partnership and collaboration between the DENR and the local coastal communities in Region 7 to promote coastal resources management and at the same time providing feasible livelihood opportunities to the group," said Montejo in a press statement.

The Olango Island Eco-Tour Association, which has about 30 members, operates a souvenir shop and plans to offer meals into tour packages.

"By providing alternative means of livelihood to our coastal communities, we would be able to advocate and promote the responsible management of our coastal and marine resources," he added.

Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary, one of 39 protected areas in Central Visayas, provides food and shelter to migratory birds.

Montejo said through the ICRMP, new activities would be implemented at Olango, such as snorkeling and boat paddling to attract more tourists to the area.

The ICRMP gets funding from the Asian Development Bank and the Global Environment Facility.