Caritas Philippines and the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) yesterday, November 24, 2023, to formalize their collaboration on the Caritas Bamboo Forest Project.
The MoU signing ceremony was held at the CBCP Caritas Philippines Development Center in Tagaytay City, Cavite and was attended by key representatives from both organizations, including Caritas Philippines President Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo, Caritas Philippines Executive Director Fr. Antonio Labiao, Jr., ERDB Assistant Director Conrado B. Marquez, and ERDB Supervising Admin Officer Danilo Sabiniano.
The Caritas Bamboo Forest Project is a multi-faceted initiative that aims to:
- Promote wider ecological protection efforts
- Mitigate disaster risks
- Establish bamboo-based social enterprises
- Enhance the capabilities of community-based organizations
The project is currently being implemented in the Archdiocese of Capiz, the Archdiocese of Jaro, and the Diocese of San Carlos, with plans to expand to other dioceses in the Philippines.
The project is supported by USAID Philippines and the Gerry Roxas Foundation, demonstrating their commitment to environmental sustainability and community development.
The signing of the MoU marks a significant milestone in the advancement of the Caritas Bamboo Forest Project. The project is expected to generate positive impacts on the environment and the lives of the communities it serves.