Zonta Club of Aparri partners with LGU Buguey to establish Pandan Seedling Centers
The Zonta Club of Aparri, Philippines, participated in Buguey’s inaugural Baybay Festival on 21 February, celebrating the importance of Bulong Unas and pandan while reinforcing its commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable livelihoods.
In collaboration with the Local Government Unit of Buguey, led by Mayor Licerio M. Antiporda III, the club pledged its support for Oplan BARRBIE, a program focused on:
- Babuyan Channel conservation and management
- Research and regulation for Bulong Unas and other marine products, as well as pandan plant cultivation
As part of the initiative, the club signed a Memorandum of Agreement with LGU Buguey and received financial assistance for the establishment of Pandan Seedling Centers. Representatives from the Department of Trade and Industry, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources and other agencies also attended the program.
The cultivation of pandan plants aims to prevent coastal erosion and flooding while securing sustainable livelihoods, particularly for women engaged in handicraft production. Though it will take time for the seedlings to mature, the project fosters long-term environmental stability and economic security for the community.