BaiAni Foundation, Inc., DOrSU Ink Pact for Regenerative Communities in Davao Oriental
In a bid to preserve biodiversity and promote sustainable practices in the province of Davao Oriental, the BaiAni Foundation, Inc. (Triple 20 Foundation, Inc.) and the Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU) have inked a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) today, March 4, at the University Learning and Information Resource Center (ULIRC). The agreement, signed by Mr. Arnelo Astillero, Executive Director of BaiAni, and Dr. Roy G. Ponce, President of DOrSU, strengthens their commitment to a partnership aimed at building regenerative communities.
Under the project proposal titled “Landscape Partnership Towards Building Regenerative Communities in the Province of Davao Oriental,” approved by the Gerry Roxas Foundation through its Investing in Sustainability and Partnerships for Inclusive Growth and Regenerative Ecosystems (INSPIRE) Project, the collaboration will focus on three strategic approaches over a span of two years.
The project aims to safeguard and preserve the biodiversity and forest resources of Davao Oriental by employing regenerative agricultural practices and forest restoration programs.
“We do not listen to what the planet is telling us. There is a disconnect,” Mr. Arnelo Astillero, Executive Director of BaiAni Foundation Inc., said and emphasized that people should respond to the challenges of nature.
“Our challenge lies in bridging the disconnect between humanity and the environment,” DOrSU President Dr. Roy G. Ponce responded in his speech following Mr. Joson’s challenge. President Ponce said that DOrSU, though young in its university status since 2021, is directed to carve out its niche in ‘Regenerative Futures.’ This entails embracing the principles of Regeneration and Foresight futures thinking.
“We believe in a future where humankind and nature can thrive together harmoniously,” President Ponce stressed.
Mr. Joshua Donato, Project Manager of Egip Foundation, Inc., also said he supports the university projects on regeneration and reforestation initiatives.
Both DOrSU and BaiAni will work collaboratively to implement activities under these strategic approaches, with DOrSU providing technical expertise and services. These services include facilitating surveys, conducting research, and enhancing public awareness.
The project, primarily sponsored by EGIP Foundation, Inc. and supported by USAID and GRF through the INSPIRE Project, underscores the shared commitment of BaiAni and DOrSU to safeguarding the environment and fostering sustainable development in Davao Oriental.
Key representatives from both organizations witnessed the signing, including Dr. Misael B. Clapano, DOrSU Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension, Assoc Supervisor, Institute of Terrestrial Research Biodiversity, Dr. Bernadette Nanual, Mindanao Implementation Head, Jerolyn Egento, and Dr. Lanie Laureano, Director for Research.
Also present in the ceremony are Mr. Renan Catada, Municipal tribal chieftain, and Mr. Teonilo Zapanta, ancestral domain management officer from Govgen, Davao Oriental.
This collaboration is a step forward in the conservation and sustainable development efforts of Davao Oriental, creating a lasting impact on the region’s ecosystems and communities. (DOrSU PIO)
