A TOTAL of almost P5.4 million worth of seedlings, processing equipment, farm tools, and logistical support were given to 46 upland communities in Negros Occidental.

The farm support is intended for the development and management of the upland ecosystem, as well as livelihood assistance to these communities.

Governor Eugenio Lacson and Executive Assistant to the Governor for Provincial Environment Management Office (Pemo) Affairs Julie Bedrio led the turnover rites at the Capitol grounds in Bacolod City Monday, August 16.

The Capitol, in a statement, said the projects called Support to the Upland Ecosystem Management Program, Provision of Livelihood Opportunities to Upland and Coastal Women, and Support to Pangiplan Watershed are all in partnerships with eight cities and 13 towns of Negros Occidental.

The implementation of the projects will ensure that the province's natural resources are sustainably utilized and managed to avoid exploitation.

These are also aimed at increasing the number of trees and contribute to the livelihood of the people in the community, it said.

The logistical support and equipment for the community-based monitoring teams will also strengthen their efforts in the protection, conservation and rehabilitation of the Pangiplan Watershed located in the province's Fifth District.

Bedrio said the projects are the support of the Provincial Government to the upland communities and the beneficiaries are its partners in environmental protection.

The grafted fruit tree seedlings were distributed to accredited associations in the towns of Murcia, Ilog, Cauayan and Hinoba-an, and cities of Kabankalan and San Carlos.

The coffee seedlings were distributed to Don Salvador Benedicto, Hinoba-an, Toboso, and Kabankalan City.

Upland communities in La Castellana, Isabela, E.B. Magalona, Don Salvador Benedicto, Sagay City, Sipalay City and Kabankalan City received cacao seedlings.

The coffee processing equipment, meanwhile, were turned over to accredited associations in Kabankalan City, La Castellana, Calatrava, Candoni, Murcia, Victorias City, Silay City and San Carlos City.