SAN FELIPE, Zambales – Officers and members of the Samahan ng mga Aeta Indigenous Peoples’ Agriculture Cooperative (SAYIP) in Sitio Yangil, Barangay Maloma here have started training on cooperativism.
An initiative of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines-Zambales Chapter in coordination with the Cooperative Development Authority-Region 3, the two-day training is focused on the “Fundamentals of Cooperative” for May 17, and “Cooperative Management and Governance” for May 24.
CDA-3 trainers Karen Krystel F. Ysais and Brian John Mendoza conduct the training program which was also attended by other Aeta chieftains of IP communities in San Felipe.
IBP’s engagement with the IPs sprang from the Inclusive Growth, Inclusive Business (IGIB) project aimed at establishing agriculture cooperatives of IPs and helping them connect with development partners. This was initiated during the incumbency of IBP national president Burt M. Estrada that
IBP-Zambales was one of the first four chapters nationwide to successfully implement IGIB with the registration of SAYIP Coop with the CDA, during the term of Bruce Lipton.
The SAYIP coop training is a cooperative endeavor among the CDA-3 led by director Marietta Hwang, IBP-Zambales led by its president Binibining Dahlia, MAD Travel (Making a Difference Travel) led by Rafael Sison Dionisio, NCIP-Zambales led by Atty. Roman Antonio and GQRBLAW associates Roda Capili Bejasa and Vanessa Marie Molino.
The activity is deemed “only the beginning of a long and continuous engagement with our fellow Zambaleños.”
Enthused Lipton: “Through consciousness, our minds have the power to change our planet and ourselves. It is time we heed the wisdom of the ancient indigenous people and channel our consciousness and spirit to tend the garden and not destroy it.” Press release
