Five Mangyan communities in Oriental Mindoro are being empowered through science and technology-based interventions of a project being implemented by the Mindoro State University (MinSU) and funded by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD).
The project, "S&T Community-Based for Inclusive Development (STC4iD) on Livelihood Improvement of Mangyan Communities in Mindoro through Science and Technology Interventions" aims to improve the Mangyans’ existing livelihood and provision of resources towards attaining sustainable Food and Poverty Threshold levels; empower Mangyan communities by improving literacy and leadership capabilities; and promote Mangyan products through communication and marketing.
Recently, the MinSU project team, the Technology Transfer and Promotion Division of DOST-PCAARRD, and the Pampamayanang Mangyan Ugnayan Incorporated (PMUI) jointly visited five project locations in three towns of Oriental Mindoro: Barangay Canaan in Victoria; Sitio Bungkarot in Gloria; and Sitio Atoy, Bayang, and Liguman in Bongabong.
The team explained to them the significance of the collaboration among MinSU, PMUI, and DOST-PCAARRD, underscoring a common objective to improve the Mangyans’ socio-economic status by utilizing S&T-based livelihood interventions.
DOST-PCAARRD team discussed with the Mangyan beneficiaries to identify their needs in agriculture. Subsequently, the team presented valuable suggestions for the beneficiaries to contemplate and integrate into their plans.
During the field visits, the communities were reminded of the range of upcoming activities that will be conducted, from which the community members can participate in training on agriculture, literacy, food processing, and handicrafts. The team mentioned that the importance of active participation of the Mangyan beneficiaries holds great significance and is highly appreciated to achieve project goals. The beneficiaries showed their gratitude and assured the team of their full cooperation by engaging in these activities.
MinSU Project Team discussing about the upcoming activities in agriculture, literacy, food processing, and handicrafts with the Mangyan beneficiaries of Sitio Atoy.