BATAAN

Bataan lies in the south-western part of Central Luzon, wedged between Manila Bay, Zambales and the West Philippine Sea. The province has 11 municipalities, one city and 237 barangays. Hills and mountains cover almost 81% of its land area of 137,296 hectares, with lowlands and plains comprising a mere 19%. Despite the rapid industrialization during the last decade, Bataan remains an agriculture province. Some of the promising livelihood programs in the province are cattle and carabao fattening, hog raising and poultry industry, especially broilers and ducks and egg production. PDI is in 4 barangays of Duale, Banawang, Biaan and Sabang in 4 municipalities of Limay, Bagac, Mariveles and Morong.

Salabat Processing

Bataan-image003 Bataan-image002

Due to the significant amount of harvested ginger, its relatively low price when sold raw, and the need to provide a livelihood to the indigenous peoples in the area, the Samahan ng Nagkakaisang Katutubong Aeta ng Kinaragan (SKAK) with the help of PDI, DTI and LGU developed Salabat or Ginger tea. Processing the raw ginger into salabat or ginger tea adds value, it increases its market price and yields greater profit for the PO.

Back in 2013, the processing was done manually which took more time and effort. Through the help of PDI, DTI and the LGU, machines, trainings and other equipment were provided for faster and easier production.

Ancestral Domain Titling

Bataan-image004 Bataan-image005 The Aeta Magbukun Tribe has been fighting for more than 10 years to claim their Ancestral Domain title over a 3,600-hectare land area in Limay, Bataan. The claim is currently in the 8^th stage which includes compilation of the claim book. Part of this process included proving that the Magbukun Tribe has lived in Limay for more than three generations or 125 years. Proof of their existence was found in the archives of the University of Santo Tomas where the Spaniards, in 1886, recorded their existence and occupation of living. After the finalization of the claim book comes the last three stages: Deliberation, Registration and Awarding. The claim is due for its 3^rd reading next year.

Training and Education

Bataan-image007

Bataan-image006

Education and the need to develop one’s self are essential to development that is why PDI is providing different opportunities for the peasants, indigenous peoples and farmers in Bataan. PDI offers college scholarship to IP students who have exhibited good academic performance and leadership potential. This school year, there are two college scholars from Bataan studying Education and Business Management.

PDI also conducted several trainings and seminars to enhance capabilities of POs and their members. Trainings were on Leadership, Livelihood Skills, Business Plan Preparation, and IP Orientation on History, Genes and Health.

Vegetable Production

Bataan-image009 Bataan-image008

Okra, eggplant, bitter gourd, and stringed beans are the ingredients of Pakbet. They are also vegetables planted by the upland farmers of Samahan ng Aetang Katutubo sa Biaan. Its 34 members are conducting a vegetable production project. Every year, the POs plant for two croppings with seeds and assistance provided by PDI, DA and the LGU of Limay.