THE Interface Development Interventions (Idis) said the compensation for the Bantay Bukid personnel who are safeguarding the Panigan-Tamugan watershed is ready to be distributed once the organization finishes its technical planning.
In an interview with Idis Environmental Research Specialist Lemuel Manalo, he said Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio has already finalized the compensation budget for the Bantay Bukid personnel after she approved the request of Bantay Bukid Leader Lipatuan Joel Unad last June, however, Idis still has to finish its guideline crafting.
"We were tasked to regulate the members of Bantay Bukid as well as the provision of the compensation from the city government to the members of the group," Manalo said.
Each of the 200 Bantay Bukid personnel will receive compensation of P2,000 per month with equipment that have yet to be identified by the city government.
They will also receive monthly supply of basic necessities such as toiletries, dish and laundry necessities, and many more.
Manalo said they have to be detail-oriented in formulating the specific guidelines and protocols in distributing the compensation to make sure that only the listed or accredited personnel will receive it.
He said Idis hopes to start the giving of compensation next month as they are expediting the crafting of guidelines.
Bantay Bukid is a group of forest rangers monitoring and protecting the watershed from illegal activities in the area as it will be the future source of potable drinking water of the city through the Bulk Water Supply Project of Davao City Water District (DCWD) and Apo Agua.
The mayor, during the 5th Watershed Summit last June, said she appreciated the efforts done by forest guards in protecting the river against illegal logging and other destructive actions.