TARLAC CITY (PIA) — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has launched “Operation Runo” in Mayantoc, Tarlac to boost sustainable livelihood and forest conservation.
DENR Camiling Community Office Head Amalia Fajardo emphasized that the initiative promotes the responsible use of Runo (Miscanthus sinensis Anders), a grass species similar to talahib, for local handicraft production and environmental protection.
“We are transforming Runo into something that creates livelihood opportunities for local communities and contributes to sustainable forest management,” she explained.
DENR Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer Jowell Dellosa noted that the program is a collaborative effort with the People’s Organization Tree Planter’s Association of Labney, the Aeta Abelling Tribe, and the Women of Labney.
Meanwhile, DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo stressed the importance of the operation in reinforcing the agency’s broader forest protection programs.
“By turning Runo into a viable source of income, we can create sustainable livelihoods that support both the local communities and forest conservation efforts,” he said.
DENR and its partners have begun crafting various products from harvested Runo grass, including curtain blinds, food trays, certificate holders, cellphone stands, glass coasters, trivets, and hot pots.
Runo is also known by several local names, such as bigao, gaho, gisa, bi-idu, and biau. (CLJD/MAECR, PIA Region 3-Tarlac)
