The Provincial Government of Pampanga led a vegetable and fruit-bearing tree planting activity at an Aeta community of Floridablanca.
The Capitol said it initiated the project to promote climate resilience and food security in the province.
Vice Governor Lilia “Nanay” Pineda led the activities June 19 and 20. She was assisted by provincial and town officials.
The two-day activity focused on planting vegetables like eggplant, tomato, okra, and chili.
Known climate-resilient fruit trees such as soursop (guyabano), jackfruit (langka), and sugar-apple (atis) were also planted in the areas around the said community.
The provincial government said that the crops were selected for their nutritional value and potential to thrive in upland areas.
The selected trees are expected to protect indigenous areas prone to extreme weather conditions.
The Capitol said the activity is aimed to promote sustainable farming practices while directly benefiting Aeta families.
The program was also aimed to teach local communities of the importance of food sustainability especially among the youth of the indigenous communities, who were taught how to maintain small-scale gardens.
The vice governor said the provincial government is ready to buy excess harvests from Aeta farmers, offering payment in cash or rice to ensure food security during the wet season.
“Panahon na po para mas lalo pa nating palakasin ang kakayahan ng ating mga katutubo sa agrikultura. Bibilhin po ng Kapitolyo ang kanilang ani para makatulong sa kanilang pang-araw-araw na buhay,” she said.
The Capitol also committed to provide free vegetable and fruit seedlings to Aeta communities to encourage backyard gardening.