FGen Puyo hands over the plantation to the four IP families of the Antawan clanIn commemoration of the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples (Aug. 9), FGen Puyo Hydro Corporation on Aug. 20, 2024 turned over a 12-hectare abaca plantation planted with assorted fruit-bearing trees to four Indigenous Peoples (IP) families of the Antawan clan in Jabonga, Agusan del Norte. The plantation efforts were initiated and maintained by First Gen together with the IP families.

The ceremony, graced by representatives from various organizations including First Gen, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources through the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office-Tubay, the provincial local government unit of Agusan del Norte represented by the Provincial Planning and Development Office and the Department of Agriculture, the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples and Barangay Maraiging as well as local clan leaders and Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title or CADT 134 representatives, was a celebration of both heritage and progress.

Abaca is known for its high economic value, and the inclusion of tropical fruit trees such as durian and rambutan in the plantation enhances the potential for long-term food security and livelihood for future generations of the IP clan. The plantation goes beyond mere economic opportunities as it also promotes peace among groups, strengthens community resilience and secures a regenerative future for the IP families—a core aspect of Sustainable Development Goal 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions.

Furthermore, this undertaking exemplifies First Gen’s firm commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). By actively involving indigenous communities and ensuring they benefit from regenerative projects, the company addresses historical inequalities faced by these communities. First Gen’s focus on DEI reflects its goals of providing total stakeholder value by embracing and preserving our rich cultural heritage, where all communities, including IP communities, have a chance to thrive.

(Story/Photos by:Dianne Datu)