FLORIDABLANCA, Pampanga — In a continued effort to promote environmental sustainability and community welfare, Pampanga Vice Governor Lilia “Nanay” Pineda spearheaded a tree planting activity and distributed various forms of assistance to Aeta communities in Floridablanca and Porac on June 19 to 20.
The initiative, in collaboration with the Provincial Government of Pampanga, brought together 2nd District Board Members Fritzie David-Dizon, Sajid Khan Eusoof, Atty. Claire Lim, Provincial Agriculturist Jimmy Manliclic, PSWDO Head Fe Manarang, Floridablanca Mayor-elect Mike Galang, barangay officials, and indigenous students for a meaningful 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,” the vice governor said.
The Capitol also pledged to provide free vegetable and fruit seedlings to further support the community gardening efforts of indigenous groups.
Additional Aid from PAGCOR and DSWD
Beyond environmental efforts, the Provincial Government extended comprehensive support to indigenous communities.
A total of 1,544 Aeta residents from Barangays Nabuclod, Camachille, and Mawacat received garden tools, children’s clothing, food packs from the DSWD. PAGCOR also provided blankets, mosquito nets, and hygiene kits for them.
On Friday, 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 Governor Dennis “Delta” Pineda and Vice Governor Lilia “Nanay” Pineda by 2nd District 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.
