FLORIDABLANCA, Pampanga — In continuing efforts to promote environmental sustainability and community welfare, incoming Gov. Lilia “Nanay” Pineda led a tree planting activity and distributed various forms of assistance to Aeta communities in Floridablanca and Porac on June 19-20.
The initiative of the Provincial Government of Pampanga brought together 2nd District board members Fritzie David-Dizon, Sajid Khan Eusoof, and Atty. Claire Lim, provincial agriculturist Jimmy Manliclic, PSWDO head Fe Manarang, Floridablanca Mayor-elect Mike Galang, barangay officials, and indigenous students for a planting session of vegetables and fruit-bearing trees.
Among those planted were eggplant, tomato, okra, and chili, along with soursop (guyabano), jackfruit (langka), and sugar-apple (atis). The activity served not only as a reforestation effort but also as an educational opportunity, where Aeta residents were taught the benefits of homegrown produce and sustainable farming as a defense against climate change.
“The Capitol is committed to purchasing the surplus harvest of our Aeta farmers and compensating them either in cash or rice, especially now that the rainy season is upon us. This is to support their families while also encouraging agricultural productivity,” Nanay said.
The Capitol also pledged to provide free vegetable and fruit seedlings to further support the community gardening efforts of indigenous groups.
PAGCOR, DSWD assistance
Beyond the environmental efforts, the provincial government extended various assistance to the indigenous communities.
A total of 1,544 Aeta residents from Barangays Nabuclod, Camachille, and Mawacat received garden tools, children’s clothing, and food packs from the Department of Social Weldare and Development. The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. also provided blankets, mosquito nets, and hygiene kits for them.
On June 20, the assistance continued in Porac, where 2,699 Aeta beneficiaries lined up early to receive aid through the DSWD’s support program in partnership with the provincial government.
The distribution was carried out on behalf of Gov. Dennis “Delta” Pineda and Vice Gov. Nanay Pineda by board members Dizon and Lim.
The food packs served as incentives for the community’s active participation in the 10-day community gardening program, spearheaded by the DSWD and the Capitol.
These consecutive efforts underscore the provincial government’s commitment to inclusive development, empowering indigenous communities through sustainable agriculture, livelihood support, and direct aid. Pampanga PIO/Photos: Daniel Ombina
