Davao City, June 13, 2024 – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office XI conducted a groundbreaking ceremony for Project LAWA (Local Adaptation to Water Access) at BINHI (Breaking Insufficiency Through Nutritious Harvest for the Impoverished) at Sitio Karilongan, Carmen, Baguio District, Davao City on June 13, 2024, attended by officers from the Davao City Agriculture Office, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), IGIP Foundation, TATEH Aquafeeds, DSWD XI Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), and the local barangay officials.

This event marks a major step in improving the local community’s water access and agricultural sustainability starting the first 20-day Cash-for-Work (CFT & CFW) program in their community.

The community is home to tourist attractions including the climbing of the ‘1,083 footsteps stairs’, which challenges the endurance and agility of adventurous individuals. At the top of the farms in Karilongan, eco-friendly Obu-Manuvu native houses called the ‘Obu Manuvu Village,’ offer homestays for tourists and visitors. The flat peak of Sitio Karilongan, at 3,190 feet, provides a fresh breeze and a stunning view of the green landscape below. This is also where you can find Bollad ‘ta Manama, known as God’s Hand on Top of Sitio Karilongan. The area is rich with native fruits like cacao and durian, fresh flowers, and their signature native coffee, which is a hallmark of their hospitality.

Project LAWA at BINHI aims to promote tourism activities in Sitio Karilongan, positioning it as a prime destination and providing livelihood opportunities for the indigenous peoples (IPs) community. By attracting visitors with its focus on aquaculture, fruit-bearing trees, and vegetable farming, the project seeks to boost local businesses and create sustainable economic growth in the community.

This project targets 50 partner-beneficiaries from the Obu-Manuvu Tribe, who will receive improved water access and resources to enhance their farming practices. The project aims to address water shortages and help the tribe achieve food security and economic stability. 

Project LAWA at BINHI is set to transform farming in Sitio Karilongan, helping the Obu-Manuvu tribe succeed with improved water management and innovative farming methods. This project will bring lasting benefits to the community, leading to better lives and a sustainable future for everyone involved. (DSWD XI/RSD)

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