Abaca Fiber and Rattan from the Forests of Mindanao, Philippines

by Biodiversity Conservation Network Staff

Partners:

Institute of Environmental Science for Social Change (ESSC) formerly Environmental Research Division, Manila Observatory (ERD)

1997 Update

Abaca production from old pre-project stocks increased during the period as more of the community gained confidence in the activities. There has been an overwhelming response in part due to the prices several people have received for their wild abaca fibers. In support of broader livelihood activities initiated by the women, the livelihood committee started community mapping to identify abundance levels of resources used in making handicrafts. Greater emphasis was placed on facilitating local marketing activities, both with the abaca and handicrafts.

Some community members went to Agusan Province to interact with traders and now have an understanding of the abaca fiber grading and marketing dynamics. During the Kaamulan (annual cultural celebration), the women organized a products display in the community as a venue to barter or sell goods. Afterwards, the activity was evaluated and it turned out that the community preferred barter transactions rather than cash. The women perceived this activity as a valuable learning experience because they were able to practice their new skills in a context that was familiar to them.

The Water and Forest Committees responsible for formulating policies that directly affect conservation efforts finalized many of the policies on resource use. Their understanding of policies and the importance of the resources had deepened due to the series of seminars held. Even though the meetings were fewer due to peace and order difficulties, a recapping process was achieved to address some of the issues and problems.

Several meetings with local and national government representatives were held to discuss concerns regarding issues on ancestral domain claim, rattan licensing, mining, and the peace. Women played an important role in the discussions as they are seen as capable of diffusing the situation while presenting the community's concerns.

Successes and Challenges

"OK...So What?"

WHY BIODIVERSITY   FIELD STORIES   PARTICIPATE   RESULTS   MARKETSPACE ABOUT THE NETWORK   WHAT'S NEW   LEARNING MATERIALS   SEARCH   LINKS   SITE MAP   HOME