ecocabon

Biodiversity Team Presents Year-End Monitoring Data to CADT 210 and 239, Strengthens Community-led Conservation

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 04:05:26 GMT

The Biodiversity Team held its Year-End Reporting and Sharing of Outcomes in CADT 210 and CADT 239, in Surigao del Sur bringing together community leaders and partners to review insights from the 4th quarter biodiversity monitoring and discuss next steps for conservation for 2026.

The activity strengthened community engagement, secured local acknowledgement of the biodiversity framework and data presented, and highlighted the long-term commitment required for effective monitoring. Moving forward, activities next year will begin with a ritual for guidance and an early planning session to guide implementation.

Discussions focused on survey efforts conducted, including the limits of daily survey hours due to travel time and standardized methods. To improve data collection, recommendations of increasing survey days and exploring additional, randomly placed transects in other mountain areas, while avoiding bias was in the talks.

Key action points included dedicating one patrol day for biodiversity-focused foot patrols, conducting capacity-building trainings, and strengthening biodiversity-related IEC activities for capacity building and awareness campaigns.

Project Caraga Welcomes Its First Indigenous Scholars, A Timely Gift This Christmas

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 04:04:54 GMT

The Project Caraga Scholarship Program officially launched on December 17 at the Caraga State University HERO Learning Commons Board Room with the signing of contracts for its first Indigenous Peoples scholars.

Dr. Maris Lasco, Project Leader of Project Kahiusa, described the moment as “a dream come true” and an answered prayer for advocates of Indigenous Peoples. She reminded everyone that it takes a community to raise a child—Project Caraga, PCGI, CSU, NCIP, and Project Kahiusa will stand as that community.

Scholars were also oriented on the responsibilities that come with the opportunity. As Deputy Chief CSR Officer Shayla Sanchez shared, “Kini nga scholarship, usa ka oportunidad ug usa pod ka responsibilidad,” underscoring the importance of maintaining academic standards, as discussed by PCGI Associate Princess Quino.

The National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) also expressed its gratitude to PCGI and Project Caraga, noting that the program helps fulfill the agency’s own mission of serving and empowering Indigenous communities.

When it was time for the scholars to speak, emotions filled the room.

With tears brimming, Mae Ann shared how the scholarship is her answered prayer. As a working student, she spoke of the struggles—of balancing time, finances, and the quiet pain of being unable to fully participate in group projects because she needed to work.

Yeshia followed with a heartfelt message of gratitude, especially to her father. Raised by a single parent, she shared how difficult it has been to see her 64-year-old father continue to work, just to support her education.

Her father’s words carried the weight of a lifetime of sacrifice: “Mapasalamot ako sa Ginoo sa pagtubag niya sa akoang mga pag-ampo nga anaay makatabang kaniya sa pagpahuman sa iyahang anak sa pagpa-eskwela.”

Also present was Datu Ruben Mandahinog of CADT 252, called the moment his lifelong prayer, and reminded the scholars, “Paningkamot ug ayaw usiki ang gihatag nga higayon ug tabang.”

Christmas came in early for the inaugural scholars, Mae Ann Man-abodan, taking up Bachelor of Science in Education, Major in Filipino from Nasipit and Yeshia Beceril, pursuing Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from Cabadbaran City, as they stood at the center of a moment shaped by years of quiet prayers and collective hope.

For Project Caraga and Project Caraga Group Inc. (PCGI), the scholarship program is part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), an investment in education and Indigenous leadership.

Further, Dr. Rissa Mercado thanked Project Caraga and PCGI for choosing Caraga State University as the first recipient of the scholarship program. She noted the significance of its timing, held during the Christmas season, a symbol of generosity and kindness.

Looking ahead, both scholars made a promise that they will give back and stand for their fellow Indigenous Peoples.

We believe that when Indigenous youth are supported and empowered, communities rise and lives are transformed.

Higa-Binhi Wins at YFC 2025, Highlights CADT 252 Youth’s Cacao and Coffee Nursery Vision

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 04:02:46 GMT

Congratulations to Jeme-An Bustillo and Joshua Mandahinog of CADT 252 for their remarkable win in this year’s Young Farmers Challenge (YFC) held on December 4 at the Grand Palace Hotel, Butuan City.

At the YFC 2025 Awarding Ceremony on December 15 at the Balanghai Hotel, Butuan City, winners were recognized and they received their cheques for their proposed projects. Among them, the coffee and cacao nursery initiative of our IP youth, Higa-Binhi, earned ₱80,000 in funding from the Department of Agriculture, support that will help them bring their vision to life.

Here’s to Higa-Binhi, and to every young farmer daring to build a better tomorrow in the agricultural scene.

With this win, Jeme-An and Joshua will now have the chance to advance to the regional level once their project is successfully implemented, where they can compete for an additional of ₱150,000 to strengthen and scale their project. During their pitch, they shared how Project Caraga has opened doors of opportunities for them to dream bigger and pursue agribusiness ventures in their own ancestral land.

Here we believe that when we uplift our youth, we empower our communities, bringing us a step closer to transforming lives. They remind us that the future of Caraga is in good hands, in the hands of young leaders who choose to plant hope.

Project Caraga Joins Consultative Briefing on the Philippine Carbon Market Policy Framework

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 04:01:43 GMT

Project Caraga, represented by ecoCarbon Group Chief Markets Officer Sophia Ong and CCDI Deputy Chief Executive Officer Anselmo Cabrera, joined the Consultative Briefing on the Blueprint for the Philippine Carbon Market Policy Framework on December 9, 2025 at the Asian Development Bank in Mandaluyong City.

Project Caraga’s participation underscores its commitment to advancing climate-smart development and contributing to a transparent and inclusive carbon market system in the Philippines.

The event convened government agencies, ADB representatives, and private-sector stakeholders to review the initial design of the country’s emerging carbon market. The Blueprint outlines the core normative, procedural, infrastructure, and institutional elements necessary for a credible and effective national carbon market and was developed through an inter-agency, participatory process.

Discussions focused on ensuring a shared understanding of the proposed mechanisms and gathering stakeholder insights to further refine and finalize the policy framework.

Caraga Coffee Celebration Concludes with a Spotlight on Farmer Development and Market Growth

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 04:00:33 GMT

Day 3 of the Caraga Coffee Festival at SM Butuan City, last December 5, 2025, wrapped up the vibrant three-day celebration of Caraga’s coffee industry with a culmination program that brought together growers, local cafe owners, and partners committed to elevating our local coffee produce.

As we close this year’s festivities, we march onward toward progress for our coffee farmers: better quality, stronger markets, and a brighter, more inclusive future within Caraga’s coffee story.

The program featured insightful talks from the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), highlighting ways to premiumize Caraga coffee and the interventions and support available for farmers and growers across the region.

Project Caraga Group Inc.’s Programs and Partnerships Coordinator, Patrick Ruiz, also took the stage to express the team’s gratitude to DTI, DA, the Caraga Coffee Council, and the entire Caraga Coffee Community. He highlighted how valuable it was for our IP farmers to learn directly from experts and gain knowledge and market connections that can strengthen their livelihoods.

Project Caraga Engages in Regional Dialogue for Sustainable Agricultural Solutions at High Value Crops Sectoral Committee Meeting

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 03:44:53 GMT

Project Caraga attended the 4th Quarter High Value Crops Sectoral Committee Meeting hosted by the Regional Agricultural and Fishery Council at VCDU Prince Hotel, Imadejas, Butuan City on December 4, represented by Caraga Carbon Development, Inc. (CCDI) Chief Markets Officer Rowil Aguillon.

Our participation aims to explore the possibility of becoming part of the council. It was an opportunity to engage with various sectors, understand their current concerns, and collaboratively propose sustainable solutions. This allows us to strengthen networks, align efforts, and support the sectors and communities we serve toward more resilient and inclusive development.

Brewing Futures: IP Farmers Join and Step Into New Opportunities at the 2025 Caraga Coffee Festival

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 03:42:01 GMT

Our partner IP farmers from across Caraga joined the opening of the 2025 Caraga Coffee Festival yesterday at the Event Center of SM City Butuan, a celebration of Caraga’s finest Robusta, that will continue until December 5. For many of them, this gathering is more than an event, but a doorway to new opportunities. Here, they meet potential buyers, connect with local coffee shop owners from Butuan, and learn alongside fellow farmers supported by Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Department of Agriculture (DA).

As they walk through booths filled with the rich aroma of roasted beans, our farmers also see a reflection of what’s possible—what care, patience, and tending the land with intention can grow. The stories behind the coffees showcased yesterday remind them that when they nurture their plants, they nurture a future that can flourish.

During the program, our Chief Markets Officer, Rowil Aguillon, introduced Project Caraga to the public, our mission, our efforts on the ground, and the ways we hope to walk with our farmers toward stronger livelihoods.

We thank the Caraga Coffee Council and DTI for giving us the opportunity to join the 2025 Caraga Coffee Festival. We are hopeful that next year, we will return with our very own IP farmers competing to be part of Caraga’s coffee story—sharing their journeys as successful producers and contributing their own chapter to this thriving community.

Through festivals like this, we draw nearer to our shared vision: to stand with indigenous communities.

Project Caraga, Sunfood Marketing Inc. Discuss Potential Partnership

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 03:41:07 GMT

Project Caraga held an exploratory meeting with Sunfood Marketing Inc. (SMI) on December 10, 2025, in Ko’on, Rosario, Agusan del Sur, opening discussions on how both groups can work together to better serve partner Indigenous communities in Caraga Region.

The meeting brought together Project Caraga and SMI’s leadership — ecoCarbon Group CMO Sophia Ong, Caraga Carbon Development Inc. (CCDI) CMO Rowil Aguillon, CCO Owen Jaen, CEO and President Dom Subang, COO Jennifer Subang, and Business Development Manager Ronnel Dela Cruz. The meeting centered on operational considerations such as ground elevation and production models that could align with our community-based projects.

Furthermore, talks also considered potential areas for collaboration outside the primary focus, including the abaca industry, a livelihood common among partner indigenous communities living in ancestral domain areas in Agusan del Norte, Surigao del Norte, and Surigao del Sur. Grounded in a shared commitment to people, agriculture, and the Philippine farming landscape, they expressed interest in positioning Mindanao as a key contributor to inclusive and sustainable agricultural development.

Project Caraga Steps into Global Spotlight at AlterCOP 30

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 10:35:33 GMT

Project Caraga proudly joined global changemakers last November 17 as our Social Impact Lead, Dr. Anushka Rege, represented both the project and ecoCarbon at AlterCOP 30 in Singapore.

Dr. Rege shared our insights on Social Impact and REDD+, calling for stronger recognition and support for REDD+ projects worldwide. Her presentation highlighted the critical role of Indigenous communities and local actors in advancing sustainable development and biodiversity conservation.

Our participation solidifies Project Caraga’s commitment to climate action, advocating for the rights of Indigenous peoples, and promoting sustainable, environmentally conscious development.

By bringing the stories of our partner CADTs to an international audience, we highlight how local, community-driven action can drive global impact.

Thank you, Dr. Anushka, for proudly carrying Project Caraga at AlterCOP 30!

Project Caraga Strengthens Coordination with AFP Through Courtesy Visits Across Caraga Region

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 10:32:21 GMT

Project Caraga CMO Rowil Aguillon along with our Security Officer Lou Ballescas, and Safety Officer Jhun Aldrin Carias, conducted a series of courtesy visits to key Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) units across Agusan del Norte, Surigao del Norte, and Surigao del Sur. The visits included the 402nd Brigade in Bancasi, the 23rd Infantry Battalion in Buenavista, the 901st Infantry Brigade in Placer, the 30th Infantry Battalion in Gigaquit, and the 36th and 75th Infantry Battalions in Carmen and Brgy. Magruyong, respectively.

The teams were warmly received by Brigadier Generals, as these engagements provide Project Caraga an important platform to brief AFP personnel on ongoing activities and updates in our partner communities. Through direct dialogue, the team was able to align operational efforts, share project updates, and discuss ways to ensure the safety and security of all field personnel across the Caraga region.

By strengthening coordination with AFP units, Project Caraga continues to advance its mission on the ground while ensuring the protection and support of teams conducting fieldwork. These interactions represent a proactive step toward sustainable collaboration and safer, more effective implementation of community-focused initiatives throughout the region.

Project Caraga Showcases Nature-Based Solutions Framework in LGU Alegria Meeting

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 10:27:35 GMT

In a courtesy meeting with LGU Alegria last November 17, 2025, DCEO Anselmo Cabrera, together with the Project Caraga Group Inc. (PCGI) team, formally presented Project Caraga's comprehensive nature-based solutions framework. The discussion highlighted the organization’s integrated approach to environmental conservation, sustainable development, and community resilience, emphasizing how strategic interventions can support both ecological preservation and the well-being of Indigenous Peoples (IPs).

During the presentation, the team underscored the pivotal role of IP forest guards, coordinators, and local leaders in driving conservation and carbon initiatives. Project Caraga also showcased ongoing programs across health, education, livelihood, and environmental stewardship. These initiatives are designed to strengthen IP capacities, promote sustainable practices, and empower communities to adapt effectively to climate-related challenges while preserving cultural heritage.

The meeting reaffirmed Project Caraga’s commitment to close collaboration with LGU Alegria in safeguarding natural resources, protecting biodiversity, and promoting climate-aligned, culturally grounded development. Both parties expressed shared interest in further enhancing community-based programs that integrate environmental protection with socio-economic growth, reinforcing the vision of resilient and empowered local communities.

PCGI and MJSH Explore Collaboration to Support Indigenous Healthcare

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 10:22:51 GMT

Project Caraga Group Inc. (PCGI) and Manuel J. Santos Hospital (MJSH) of Butuan City held an exploratory meeting at the MJSH Medical Arts Building to discuss avenues for collaboration last November 14, 2025. The session brought together representatives from both organizations to share insights on healthcare access challenges experienced by Indigenous Peoples in Caraga. The discussion also highlighted the importance of crafting programs that are both culturally sensitive and sustainable.

The discussion built on the successful partnership between PCGI and Mabuhay Deseret Foundation, which enabled cataract patients from CADT 092 to undergo life-improving surgeries at MJSH last September. Looking ahead, both teams explored partnership frameworks that would align PCGI’s initiatives with MJSH’s corporate social responsibility commitments. Emphasis was placed on strengthening healthcare delivery systems to ensure that essential services reach even the most remote Indigenous communities, while supporting their long-term well-being.

A central point of the meeting was the potential formalization of the partnership through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA). Once finalized, the agreement would establish a clear structure for joint programs and collaborative efforts, enabling PCGI and MJSH to work more effectively in advancing accessible and equitable healthcare for Indigenous Peoples across the region.

A central component of the activity was a collaborative workshop focused on drafting a reporting and response protocol for each CADT, enhancing coordination between CCDI and DENR field offices. CENRO Nasipit DMO III Gabriel Arlan presented the consolidated output, highlighting actionable steps for improving incident reporting and environmental response mechanisms.

Project Caraga and DENR Caraga Hold Levelling-Off Session on Forest Protection, Sustainable Land Use, and Biodiversity Response

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 10:21:29 GMT

Project Caraga and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Caraga convened in Ambago, Butuan City last November 14, 2025, for a Levelling-Off Session aimed at strengthening coordination on forest protection, sustainable land use, and biodiversity response. The meeting brought together key leaders and technical teams from both sides to align priorities, share expertise, and build a common understanding of ongoing conservation efforts across the region.

The session opened with a comprehensive project overview delivered by Deputy CEO Anselmo Cabrera, followed by Chief Markets Officer Rowil Aguillon who presented the Agricultural Development Roadmap. Technical teams from Geospatial Intelligence, Forestry, and Biodiversity also shared updates on current field activities and monitoring strategies. Our COO Bonnie Sanchez addressed questions and clarifications from PENRO and CENRO representatives, ensuring that both agencies were aligned on operational processes and goals.

Project Caraga expressed optimism about the strengthened partnership, reaffirming its commitment to working closely with DENR Caraga to advance sustainable resource management and environmental conservation across the region.

Crafting Change: PCGI and FGEN Puyo Hydro Unite for Culture-Based Livelihood Growth

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 10:19:30 GMT

Project Caraga Group Inc. (PCGI) and FirstGen Puyo Hydro formally began discussions on potential collaboration during a meeting at the Project Caraga Headquarters on November 4, 2025. The conversation centered on supporting Indigenous Peoples across the region, with a particular emphasis on strengthening community livelihoods such as weaving. Both teams explored opportunities for value-adding, branding, and market access, while also exchanging success stories that highlighted the potential of culture-based, women-led enterprises.

Building on this dialogue, both visited the Maraiging Mamanwa Farmers Skilled Workers Association (MAMAFASWAS) in Brgy. Maraiging on November 6, 2025. The visit aimed to understand the community’s current initiatives and explore possible collaborations in product promotion, training, and livelihood development. MAMAFASWAS members showcased their intricately handcrafted bags—distinct expressions of Mamanwa artistry that reflect deep cultural identity and craftsmanship.

The engagement strengthened the shared commitment of PCGI and FGEN Puyo Hydro to uplift Indigenous weaving traditions and create sustainable income opportunities for local artisans. By learning directly from the community, both organizations gained valuable insights into how targeted support can elevate culture-driven livelihood programs and help build resilient, community-led enterprises.

On November 14, 2025, another coordination meeting was held at the HQ where the teams mapped out plans including livelihood enhancement, environmental and watershed conservation, practical capacity-building, support for tools and raw materials, and potential initiatives on scholarships and cultural development—marking a strong step toward a meaningful partnership in Caraga.

Project Caraga Joins NCIP Multi-Stakeholder Consultation on Draft FPIC Rules

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 10:17:39 GMT

Project Caraga representatives Bonnie Sanchez and Manjobel Ladao participated in the Multi-Stakeholder Consultation on the Draft Rules and Procedures for the Free and Prior Informed Consent (FPIC) Process, hosted by the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) in Quezon City, last November 6–7, 2025. The two-day session gathered government agencies, civil society groups, Indigenous Peoples (IP) leaders, and sector representatives to review and refine key provisions of the proposed FPIC guidelines.

The consultation aimed to strengthen policy frameworks that protect the rights of Indigenous Cultural Communities and Indigenous Peoples. For Project Caraga, the event offered an important opportunity to engage with national stakeholders and better understand emerging directions in FPIC policy reform.

We recognize the relevance of these ongoing consultations in shaping a more responsive FPIC system—one that supports development while ensuring that the voices, rights, and aspirations of partner communities remain at the center.

GID, CoDev Lead Successful Launch of LMZ Validation at CADT 002 and 048

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 10:15:34 GMT

Last November 11, 2025, the Geospatial Intelligence Department and Community Development teams successfully launched the Leakage Management Zone (LMZ) validation activity in CADT 002 and 048, marking a significant step forward in advancing Project Caraga’s land-use planning and monitoring efforts.

The initiative aimed to generate accurate, on-the-ground information to help guide decisions on sustainable land management. With teams working closely together, the activity set the foundation for more robust planning processes and provided a clearer understanding of the landscape conditions within our partner CADTs’ areas.

A major highlight of the launch was the deployment of the project’s newly acquired drones, which enabled precise and efficient mapping of areas with potential for agriculture and agroforestry. Through aerial surveys and high-resolution imagery, the team was able to identify suitable zones. These data sets will play a vital role in shaping the upcoming interventions of the Community Development and Forestry Department, ensuring that future initiatives are grounded in reliable and science-based assessments.

This successful collaboration not only strengthened interdepartmental coordination but also reinforced Project Caraga’s commitment to leveraging technology for sustainable community development and environmental stewardship.

Blue Acres Founders Visit CADT 252 to Explore Sustainable Agriculture Collaboration

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 10:11:12 GMT

On November 5, 2025, Project Caraga welcomed Blue Acres Founders Ng Boon Ching and Ke Boon Hian to visit partner Indigenous communities in CADT 252, Agusan del Norte. The visit marked an important step in strengthening collaboration between Project Caraga and Blue Acres as both teams work toward expanding sustainable, community-led development efforts in the region.

The delegation visited the municipalities of Buenavista and Nasipit, where they observed ongoing livelihood activities and engaged in discussions with local community members. This chance provided an opportunity to explore potential strategies for enhancing sustainable agriculture initiatives, including value-adding, market access improvement, and approaches to scaling their agricultural production. Insights shared during the engagement helped identify areas where technical support and innovation can reinforce the long-term resilience of IP livelihoods.

Following the visit, Ng Boon Ching expressed appreciation for the team’s preparation and the insights gained during the two-day field engagement.

“Thank you all for the planning and the last two days of showing us around CADT and the market product research. The trip has been very fruitful, and we learned a ton,” she said.

The exchange underscored Blue Acres’ strong interest in continued collaboration with Project Caraga and our partner communities.

Project Caraga Completes CADT Operations Planning Workshops Across Caraga

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 10:08:29 GMT

Project Caraga has officially completed its series of CADT Operations Planning Workshops, concluding with CADT 210 on September 23, 2025. This marks the successful rollout of participatory planning sessions across all 10 Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT) partner communities in the Caraga Region.

The pilot run began in Cortes, Surigao del Sur on August 13–15, 2025, which set the tone for a collaborative process where community representatives, elders, and local leaders worked together with the help of Project Caraga officials to identify priority plans for their ancestral domains.

Anchored on the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act (IPRA) of 1997, these workshops reinforce the vital role of Indigenous Peoples as stewards of Caraga’s forests. By aligning community-driven plans with goals for biodiversity conservation, climate resilience, and sustainable livelihoods, Project Caraga continues to uphold its mission of protecting forests while empowering communities.

Through this milestone, we celebrate the significance of participatory planning. The project supports the efforts of community leaders in ensuring that the voices and visions of Indigenous Peoples help shape the future of the region.

Forest Protection Mini Summit: A United Stand for Surigao del Sur’s forests

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 10:05:26 GMT

Project Caraga, represented by CMO Rowil Aguillon and COO Bonnie Sanchez, joined the Forest Protection Mini Summit organized by the Diocese of Tandag on October 17, 2025.

During the summit, our team presented detailed insights on the current state of Surigao del Sur’s forests using GIS data, highlighting the pressing threats they face, including illegal logging and land conversion. The discussion emphasized the urgent need for stronger forest governance and collaborative approaches to safeguard these vital ecosystems.

The summit served as a platform to bring together government agencies, environmental advocates, civil society, and local communities to strengthen forest protection initiatives and promote long-term sustainability.

Project Caraga is proud to stand alongside these stakeholders, reinforcing our commitment to environmental stewardship and supporting community-led efforts that ensure the health and resilience of Surigao del Sur’s forests.

Indigenous Peoples Month Spotlight Shared Stewardship: Stories of Empowerment, Purpose, and Renewal

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 10:36:14 GMT

Sometimes, life pulls us away from what we love most, only to lead us right back to it.

This reflects the story of RJ Novem Macuray, whose path forward led her home, to the same purpose she once thought she had left behind, now embraced anew through her work with Project Caraga as our Data Science Monitoring and Validation Associate.

After leaving her government post in Lanuza to seek better opportunities, she thought it would be easy to leave behind the advocacy she had long stood for: uplifting and empowering Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICCs), a cause deeply rooted in her identity as a proud Manobo woman.

But purpose has a way of finding those meant to carry it. Two mentors in Chief Markets Officer Rowil Aguillon and Community Development Head Alfredo Toring, both non-IPs devoted to Indigenous empowerment, reminded her of the cause she once championed, and the people who still need her to stand for her fellow Indigenous Peoples.

Meanwhile, Jerman Acala’s story, our forest guard from CADT 239 in Bislig, remind us that redemption can take root in the same soil.

Once a logger cutting trees to provide for his family, Jerman now walks the same forest with renewed purpose, protecting the very land he once relied on for survival.

Empowered through Project Caraga, he and his fellow forest guards now blend traditional knowledge with modern science, strengthened by digital tools and skills training.

And deep within the ancestral forests of Bislig lives Virgilio “Datu Danao” Domogoy, a man who speaks the language of life within the trees.

Known for his remarkable oneness with the rhythms of the forest, Datu Danao can recognize a species not just by sight, but by sound.

He has seen Philippine Eagles soar and hatchlings take their first flight, not from textbooks, but from dawns spent beneath the forest’s watchful eyes. Now, as Project Caraga’s Biodiversity Enforcement Officer, he bridges traditional wisdom with scientific data, ensuring that Indigenous knowledge continues to guide modern ways of conservation.

This Indigenous Peoples Month, we honor RJ, Jerman, and Datu Danao—three stories, one shared truth: that purpose, healing, and wisdom all begin where roots run deep.

For the people. For the forest. For the future.

Not Just a Title. A Calling: From CCDI Forest Guards to Caraga’s DENROs

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 10:36:13 GMT

In Caraga, a new generation is answering the call to protect the forest.

Last October 23, 2025, selected forest guards from CCDI began their orientation and training at the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Nasipit, the first step toward their deputation as Deputy Environment and Natural Resources Officers (DENROs). Soon, they will be well-prepared to lead local efforts in forest protection.

That same day, the Forestry team sat down with LGU Nasipit at the Montinola Information Center to build stronger coordination ties. The following day, October 24, the conversation continued with LGU Buenavista at the Municipal Hall, proof that protecting forests takes shared hands and united hearts.

Each effort taken by the soon-to-be DENROs form part of one bigger promise: that Caraga’s forests will never be left unguarded.

Project Caraga Rolls Out Deforestation Protocol

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 10:36:11 GMT

Led by COO Bonnie Sanchez, together with representatives from the GID and Forestry teams, the Project Caraga Deforestation Response Protocol officially rolled out in nine out of 10 partner Indigenous communities in the provinces of Surigao del Sur, Agusan del Norte, and Surigao del Norte.

This milestone marks a significant step forward in strengthening community-led forest protection systems. Through the rollout, Indigenous and local communities are now equipped with clearer protocols, tools, and coordinated processes to detect, report, and respond swiftly to deforestation incidents within their ancestral domains.

Because protecting the forest begins with empowering its guardians—those who know the land not just by its boundaries, but by the stories, roots, and rhythms that sustain it.

Eyes in the Wild: Tracing Life and Hope in the Forests of CADT 239

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 10:36:10 GMT

Deep within the ancestral forests of CADT 239 in Bislig, Surigao del Sur, the Project Caraga team, led by Biodiversity Zonal Officer Jim Clay Bagano and Biodiversity Enforcement Officer Datu Danao, set out to uncover the hidden wonders of biodiversity. With camera traps and community partners, they began a journey of discovery: to capture the unseen pulse of life in the wild.

The team installed motion-activated cameras that now keep silent watch, poised to record the movements of forest life—especially the endangered Philippine Deer (Rusa marianna), a key prey species of the critically endangered Philippine Eagle (Pithecophaga jefferyi). Each offers a glimpse into the forest’s story, helping monitor species, track patterns, and detect emerging threats.

But beyond the lens, the team also walked the forests with Indigenous community members using the line transect method, noting every trace of wildlife they encounter. Each record adds a piece to the story of CADT 239’s rich biodiversity.

For the community, these efforts deepen their role as forest stewards. Here, traditional knowledge meets science, strengthening their ability to protect their ancestral lands. For Project Caraga, it ensures that every environmental commitment rests on measurable, meaningful results. This is more than just monitoring and verification, it reaffirms hope.

The team also found Philippine Eagle nests, inactive for now, but whispers a promise. When we manage disturbance and the noise, maybe, one day soon, the call of the Philippine Eagle may once again echo through its skies.

Every captured image, even the stillness of the forest and the absence of wings, carries meaning: a story of coexistence and hope. As long as the forests remain standing and breathing, life and hope endures, because to protect the land is to keep the song of life alive.

PCGI & Rotary Club of Bislig Paving the Path for Lingig’s Children

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 10:36:09 GMT

In the heart of Brgy. Rajah Cabungsuan, Lingig, Surigao del Sur, children walk long, rugged paths to school — some barefoot, all determined.

On October 4, 2025, Project Caraga Group Inc. (PCGI) and the Rotary Club of Bislig brought school kits and slippers for over 100 pupils from Daycare to Grade 3—small gifts that honored their courage and reminded them that no journey is too far when hope walks beside you.

Present during the activity were CADT 210 IP leaders led by Hawudon Noli Gay-od, Rotary Club President Rebecca Bernales, Barangay Captain Hon. Hilda M. Artiza, Detachment Commander TSG. Reynaldo Yana, and Atty. Howell Rex “Abogadong Bisdak” Mabale. For the community, this visit meant more than donations, it was a reminder that they are seen, remembered, and valued.

This initiative reflects Project Caraga’s unwavering belief that compassion should travel far and wide; reaching every heart, every learner, every dreamer. Because when we choose to care, we do more than give; we pave the path for others to keep learning, growing, and believing in the future they deserve.

For it is through compassion that we empower futures and transform lives.

Together with DENR, We Protect Forests and Futures

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 10:36:07 GMT

Last October 16, 2025, Project Caraga led by the management team warmly welcomed the DENR officials, headed by Forest Management Bureau (FMB) Director Atty. Ray Thomas F. Kabigting and DENR Regional Executive Director Maritess Ocampo to the project.

The visit served as an avenue to explore possible collaborations on forest conservation and protection. This reinforced our shared vision where the project’s core pillars of climate action, community development, and biodiversity conservation thrive as one.

Every discussion echoed one truth: to protect forests is to protect the lives that depend on them.

Hand-in-hand with our partner stakeholders, we continue to safeguard forests, create sustainable opportunities, and uphold integrity through transparent carbon initiatives, all grounded in the stewardship of the people who call these lands home.

In every tree we protect lies a promise: of climate resilience, empowered communities, and a future worth passing on.

Exploring Partnerships and Envisioning Help for Caraga’s IP Communities

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 10:36:06 GMT

Hope can begin with a simple conversation. One that envisions a future where no child is left behind, no one endures health suffering, and everyone thrives at the same pace.

In a recent meeting with Former Undersecretary of Transportation Atty. Roberto “Bobby” Lim, Co-Founder of the Collaborative Future Alliance (CoFA) and member of the Rotary Club of Makati West, the Project Caraga Group Inc. (PCGI) shared the realities faced by our partner Indigenous communities — their struggles, aspirations, and the small yet powerful ways we can walk with them.

From medical missions and provision of clean water systems to educational assistance, every idea shared for improving community well-being and livelihood became a spark of possibility. Through Atty. Bobby’s affiliations and shared vision, PCGI remains hopeful that these dreams can take shape.

At the heart of every initiative lies a truth we hold close: when we care for people and invest in their future, we build ours, too. One partnership and one act of compassion at a time.

Any support we can provide will make a real difference for the communities we serve. At Project Caraga, we strive to empower futures and transform lives.

Envisioning Possibilities and Brewing Opportunities for Coffee Farms in IP Communities with Nestle

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 10:36:05 GMT

What if every sip of coffee could soon tell a story of dreams?

Last October 15, 2025, the Project’s Sustainable Agriculture team along with our GCMO, Sophia Ong, accompanied Nestle Public Affairs Executive Donnel Tiedra and Former DOTr Undersecretary Atty. Roberto Lim to CADT 252 in Agusan del Norte to assess local coffee farms.

As Nestle explores the possibility of expanding in the region, the visit marks a promising opportunity for our Indigenous farmers. Through this on-ground assessment, both parties explored collaborations for more sustainable livelihoods and community-driven growth.

If the partnership between Project Caraga and Nestlé Philippines pushes through, we might be looking at a future where our Indigenous farmers’ faces and stories shine on coffee packs across the country. Truly ‘Kapeng Pilipino, para sa Pilipino’, a beautiful reminder that the brew that wakes us up also uplifts the hands that grow it.

Project Caraga stands with our Indigenous communities, empowering futures and transforming lives. Ikaw, para kanino ka bumabangon?

Weaving Futures: Project Caraga, PhilFIDA Explore Opportunities to Strengthen Abaca Farming in CADT Communities

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 10:40:15 GMT

On September 24, 2025, Project Caraga, led by CMO Rowil Aguillon, met with the Philippine Fiber Development Authority (PhilFIDA) Region XIII, represented by OIC-Regional Director Samuel M. Nancino, Jr., to explore partnership opportunities that could propel the abaca fiber industry within the 10 Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT) areas handled by the Project in Agusan del Norte, Surigao del Norte, and Surigao del Sur. The dialogue marked an important step toward aligning efforts to strengthen sustainable livelihood programs for Indigenous Cultural Communities/Indigenous Peoples (ICCs/IPs).

Framing the vision of the event, CEO Richard Loi emphasized that ecoTalks will go beyond dialogue, to align Project Caraga’s mission to protect the forest, safeguard biodiversity, foster climate resilience, and uplift Indigenous communities. Key discussions highlighted the urgency of climate action, the living symphony of forests we must protect, the importance of sustained support to uphold IP dignity, opportunity, and shared progress, the central role of IPs in shaping sustainable futures, and reasserted that our IP communities are the very heart of the project.

The event closed with a Pledge of Commitment Ceremony, where all attendees signed the Commitment Wall – a symbolic promise of solidarity for forests, climate, biodiversity, and communities. As the first of many, ecoTalks sets the stage for a continuing series across Caraga to unite stakeholders in advancing both environmental integrity and socio-economic well-being.

Planting Ideas, Growing Action: ecoTalks Unite Voices for Forests, Climate, Biodiversity, and Communities

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 10:38:52 GMT

Project Caraga marked a milestone last September 16, 2025, with the launch of its first ecoTalks, a forum series designed to amplify diverse voices, share scientific insights, and build partnerships for climate action. The inaugural event gathered government agencies, private sector representatives, civil society groups, environmental advocates, Indigenous Peoples (IPs) from 10 CADT communities, and agroforestry students from Caraga State University— underscoring the collective role of every sector in protecting forests, biodiversity, and communities.

Project Caraga, DENR Caraga Forge Stronger Ties for Forest Protection and Enforcement

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 10:34:57 GMT

Butuan City, Philippines — The and Caraga Carbon Development Inc. (CCDI) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Caraga Region have reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the region’s forests and biodiversity through a high-level coordination meeting held on September 2, 2025, at the DENR ORED Conference Room in Butuan City.

CCDI’s delegation, led by Deputy CEO Anselmo Cabrera, COO Bonnie Sanchez, Forestry Head Rosilyn Sanchez, and Planning and Monitoring Staff Chin Rafallo, met with DENR Regional Executive Director Maritess M. Ocampo and other key officials to present the latest updates on Project Caraga and share findings from recent deforestation monitoring activities. The meeting also served as preparatory groundwork for the upcoming visit of Forest Management Bureau (FMB) Director, Atty. Ray Thomas Kabigting.

The sessions highlighted the implementation of biodiversity conservation initiatives, learning exchange, and the need to strengthen collaboration on forest protection and enforcement in the region. Both Project Caraga and DENR Caraga emphasized that collaborative governance is crucial in addressing the region’s environmental challenges and in ensuring long-term climate resilience.

The meeting also highlighted opportunities for collaboration on joint initiatives that can strengthen forest governance and community participation. Both CCDI and the LGU emphasized that transparent communication and well-defined roles are essential to advancing shared goals of conservation and resource management for the municipality of Lanuza. By affirming their commitment to partnership, they underscored that sustainable forest governance is not just about protecting ecosystems but also about safeguarding the well-being of the communities who depend on them.

Strengthening partnerships in forest governance through collaborative initiatives

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 10:31:46 GMT

The Caraga Carbon Development Inc. team, led by Ms. Rosilyn C. Sanchez, Head of Forestry, convened a meeting on September 10, 2025, with Mr. Melchor John M. Largo, Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officer (MENRO) of Lanuza, Surigao del Sur. The discussion centered on clarifying the scope of Project Caraga’s coverage within the municipality and ensuring that coordination with the Local Government Unit (LGU) remains strong and transparent. By addressing these key points, both sides aimed to build a clear and shared understanding of how the Project’s activities will align with the municipality’s environmental priorities and existing policies.

Project Caraga Hosted Carbon Study Talks with PRIMEX, Landell Mills

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 10:03:55 GMT

Project Caraga welcomed representatives from Pacific Rim Innovation and Management Exponents, Inc. (PRIMEX) and Landell Mills Limited (UK) for a meeting on advancing carbon studies in the Caraga Region last September 4, 2025. The discussion is part of the Asian Development Bank-funded Technical Assistance Project TA-10009 REG: Accelerating Climate Resilience in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and the Environment – 5 CCAP SP3: Climate Resilient Ecosystems , implemented in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources(DENR).

Project Caraga was represented by Deputy CEO Anselmo Cabrera and Chief Communications Officer Owen Jaen, while PRIMEX was led by National Forester and Watershed Specialist Dr. Diomedes Racelis and National Data Analyst Ronn Ritchie Arboleda. The exchange of methodologies and insights underscored the importance of grounding carbon studies in strong scientific research while aligning them with community coordination and conservation work on the ground.

The collaboration highlights the shared goal of building climate-resilient ecosystems in Caraga—where data-driven studies not only inform policies but also create practical opportunities for sustainable investment and livelihood. By bridging technical expertise with local action, the partnership advances both forest conservation and climate resilience for the benefit of present and future generation

Project Caraga Launches CADT Operations Planning Workshop in Surigao del Sur

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 09:33:53 GMT

Empowering indigenous communities through participatory planning and forest conservation

The Project Caraga CADT Operations Planning Workshop officially kicked off with a pilot run on August 13–15, 2025, at the Municipal Gym in Cortes, Surigao del Sur. The session opened with welcome remarks from Cortes Municipal Mayor Dennis Yu, followed by a Project Caraga refresher presented by Chief Operating Officer Bonnie Sanchez and Chief Marketing Officer Rowil Aguillon. Both underscored the project’s mission as a leading forest conservation and community-based initiative dedicated to protecting forests and upholding Indigenous rights across the region.

The Operations Planning exercise actively engages community representatives in identifying and laying down priority plans for implementation within their respective Certificate of Ancestral Domain Titles (CADTs). This participatory approach ensures that project activities are rooted in local priorities and reflect the aspirations of partner indigenous communities.

Under the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act (IPRA) of 1997, CADTs are formal titles issued by the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), legally recognizing the rights of Indigenous Cultural Communities/Indigenous Peoples (ICCs/IPs) to their ancestral lands and domains. By anchoring its planning process on CADTs, Project Caraga reinforces Indigenous self-determination while strengthening governance and conservation practices within these territories

As part of its participatory governance model, Project Caraga is rolling out the CADT Operations Planning Workshop in all ten partner communities across the Caraga Region. This series of workshops aims to align community-driven initiatives with the project’s broader goals of biodiversity protection, sustainable livelihoods, and climate action, further cementing the role of Indigenous peoples as stewards of the region’s forests.

Project Caraga Meets with DILG Caraga to Strengthen Community Engagement and Environmental Governance

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 09:27:04 GMT

Forging strategic convergence in support of indigenous communities and local capacities

The Project Caraga team had met with Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Caraga Regional Director Maria Loisella E. Lucino, CESO IV, to discuss the upcoming convergence activity and explore partnership opportunities in advancing community engagement, governance, and environmental protection.

Representing Project Caraga was Chief Communications Officer Owen Jaen, who presented the project profile, outlined its current objectives, and shared key milestones to date.

This coordination aligned well with DILG Caraga’s commitment to advancing transparency, citizen participation, and environmental responsibility through its programs—such as the Indigenous Peoples outreach and the institutionalization of third-party monitoring to reinforce community engagement and governance practices. It also complements the department’s capacity-building efforts, which aims to improve service delivery and accountability at the local level .

Through this collaboration with DILG, Project Caraga hopes to gain valuable insights and institutional support that will strengthen its convergence model—especially in engaging indigenous communities in the provinces of Agusan del Norte, Surigao del Norte, and Surigao del Sur.

By integrating Project Caraga’s community-focused milestones with DILG’s governance frameworks and monitoring tools, both parties stand to enhance coordinated efforts toward sustainable development, inclusive governance, and environmental stewardship in Caraga’s most underserved areas.a

Project Caraga at the Singapore Regional Business Forum (SRBF) 2025

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 09:17:06 GMT

Deepening regional linkages for sustainable growth and carbon cooperation

Project Caraga, through EcoCaraga Pte. Ltd., had participated in the 9th Singapore Regional Business Forum (SRBF) 2025, held on 19 August 2025 at The Ritz-Carlton Bangkok, with Group Chief Marketing Officer Sophia Ong representing the organization.

The forum’s theme— “Business Resilience in Asia: Advancing Regional Business Growth Amid Global Uncertainty” —brought together senior business and government leaders from across Asia to explore how public–private collaboration can foster innovation, deepen trade ties, and enhance regional resilience in the face of evolving global challenges.

Backed by high-level openings from Singapore’s Minister for Trade and Industry, Dr Tan See Leng, and Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister, Pichai Chunhavajira, the forum featured plenary dialogues and breakout sessions on green financing, renewable energy, smart infrastructure, and digital trade—all spotlighting ASEAN’s growth potential through sustainable strategies.

A milestone moment of the event was the signing of the Implementation Agreement under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement between Singapore and Thailand—a landmark in regional climate collaboration. Thailand’s Environment Minister hailed it as “a clear signal that ASEAN can drive high-quality, internationally aligned greenhouse gas mitigation,” while Singapore affirmed its role in unlocking climate finance and facilitating impactful carbon credit projects across forestry, clean energy, and zero-emission transport.

Project Caraga’s presence at SRBF 2025 underscored its commitment to building international partnerships and contributing to nature-based climate solutions. By engaging at forums like SRBF, Project Caraga reaffirms its resolve to empower communities and join global efforts toward resilient, sustainable development.

PCGI and MinDA Chart New Course for Mindanao’s Development

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 09:11:21 GMT

In a significant step toward a more integrated approach to regional progress, Project Caraga Group Inc. (PCGI) and the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) recently held a courtesy meeting at the MinDA office to share project updates, explore areas of collaboration, and strengthen efforts for sustainable development across Mindanao.

The meeting brought together key representatives from both organizations and featured PCGI’s presentation of its ongoing programs in health, education, livelihood, and sustainable agriculture. These initiatives, carried out in partnership with indigenous communities, reflect PCGI’s mission as the corporate social responsibility arm of Project Caraga. MinDA acknowledged PCGI’s vital role in advancing community empowerment and sustainable futures, aligning with the agency’s mandate to promote island-wide development.

Discussions also focused on how PCGI’s work on the ground can be supported through MinDA’s institutional backing, policy harmonization, and technical assistance to ensure that community-based projects are consistent with broader regional plans.

Looking ahead, both parties agreed to pursue a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to formalize their partnership and reinforce their shared commitment to driving meaningful and lasting progress in Mindanao.

From Carbon to Communities: Project Caraga’s Path to Climate Justice

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 08:06:23 GMT

By Rowil “Buboy” Aguillon, CMO, CCDI

For generations, Indigenous Peoples in the Philippines have safeguarded forests and watersheds. In Caraga, the communities of Manobo, Mamanwa, Higaonon and Banwaons have protected the upland forests and rivers of the Agusan and Surigao provinces. These landscapes have sustained their communities and the global climate, yet their vital role continues to be neglected. Too often their interests have been put aside in favor of national priorities and global markets, leaving them marginalized and impoverished.

Project Caraga seeks to change this narrative. While fully committed to international standards and methodologies that ensure high-integrity carbon credits, Project Caraga goes further—placing communities, not just carbon, at the center of its approach. Working directly with Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT) holders through their Indigenous Political Structures, the project helps define parameters that reflect both global benchmarks and local aspirations for dignity, rights, and development.

The project team has supported CADTs in strengthening their Ancestral Domain Sustainable Development and Protection Plans (ADSDPPs). Together, they mapped out areas for protection and conservation, and defined policies and actions to prevent further deforestation. These activities have culminated in the IPs declaration of the Exercise of their Priority Rights, making them not just beneficiaries or participants but as true owners of the nature-based solutions project.

Project Caraga has also partnered with the CADTs to carry out agro-ecological assessments, helping communities identify sustainable alternatives for agriculture and livelihood. For example, IP farmers are now planning to promote agro-forestry, combining high value crops like coffee, cacao and abaca, while also sustaining the production of food crops like upland rice, sweet potato and taro. The assessment results are fed into the Operations Planning process, turning ADSDPPs from “wish lists” into living documents now guiding concrete action in ancestral domains. The emphasis on these assessments and planning processes stem from the conviction that forests can only be sustainable if the CADT holders have viable sources of livelihood that will reduce their dependence on forest products.

At its core, Project Caraga shows that carbon markets can move from carbon to communities—transforming climate action into an instrument of justice, equity, and inclusion for the very people who have kept our forests standing. The sustainability of climate action rests not only on compliance to international standards, but also on the enduring commitments of indigenous people’s communities to continue protecting their ancestral domains.

ecoCarbon Capital of Singapore Charts Bold New Course for Project Caraga in the Philippines

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 10:32:25 GMT

In a decisive move to strengthen its investment in nature-based solutions (NbS) in the Caraga Region of Northeastern Mindanao, Singapore-based ecoCarbon Capital Pte Ltd officially assumed full control of Project Caraga in September 2024 from its original developer, ClearWind.

This strategic transition has accelerated Project Caraga’s progress, enabling the successful rollout of key initiatives that reflect its deep commitment to empowering Indigenous communities through inclusive, sustainable development. Among the major milestones is the completion of technical and financial support for the enhancement of Ancestral Domain Sustainable Development and Protection Plans (ADSDPPs) across 17 Indigenous Cultural Communities holding Certificates of Ancestral Domain Titles (CADTs) in Agusan del Norte, Surigao del Norte, and Surigao del Sur.

This collaborative planning process, which took nearly a year to complete, has enabled Indigenous communities to clarify land use classifications, development priorities, and socio-economic needs—laying the groundwork for long-term sustainability and self-determination.

By late 2024, the project formalized partnerships with the first 10 CADT communities through the signing of Memoranda of Agreement. These agreements mark the beginning of on-the-ground implementation, including the recruitment and training of local community coordinators and forest rangers . To date, more than 100 Indigenous Peoples (IPs) from partner communities have joined Project Caraga’s workforce, comprising 57.3% of its personnel.

Moving forward, key activities outlined in the ADSDPPs will be rolled out, including:

Enhanced capacity-building for forest monitoring and protection
Strengthening of Indigenous governance systems
Biodiversity conservation efforts
Inclusive engagement of women and youth
Preservation and enrichment of Indigenous Knowledge, Systems, and Practices (IKSP)

Over the next 25 years—renewable for another 25— Project Caraga aims to conserve and restore 200,000 hectares of ancestral forestlands, directly benefiting more than 94,000 Indigenous Peoples across 10 CADT areas, with plans to include 7 more in the coming years.

Strengthening Forest Protection: Project Caraga Trains and Equips IP Forest Rangers Across the Region

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 11:15:41 GMT

The Forestry Team of Project Caraga has successfully completed a series of capacity-building activities for Indigenous Forest Rangers from the 10 partner Certificate of Ancestral Domain Titles (CADTs) holders across Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, and Surigao del Sur.

The initiative aims to increase the capacity of forest rangers in forest protection and enforcement to safeguard their forests through enhanced knowledge on legal and para-legal requirements and the use of forest monitoring tools and gadgets. The training covered critical components such as:

Job Orientation and Role Familiarization
Basic Paralegal Training in collaboration with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)
Forest Patrolling and Monitoring using the QField and GPS applications for digital data collection
Safety and Security Training to support field preparedness and emergency response

These activities serve as a foundational step toward the formal deputation of IP forest rangers by the DENR—as Environment and Natural Resources Officers (DENRO) .

Project Caraga remains committed to supporting Indigenous leadership in forest conservation, ensuring that protection efforts are rooted in both traditional knowledge and modern approaches.

Project Caraga Group Partners with Mabuhay Deseret Foundation to Deliver Essential Eye Care Services to Indigenous Communities

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 11:15:41 GMT

Project Caraga Group, Inc.—the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arm of Project Caraga—has partnered with the Mabuhay Deseret Foundation (MDF), the Philippines’ largest surgical charity organization, to bring much-needed medical services to Indigenous Peoples (IPs) residing within CADT 115 in Surigao del Sur.

The recent outreach mission focused on eye health screening and consultation, successfully serving approximately 130 individuals from the partner ancestral domain. With the committed support of Project Caraga’s CADT coordinators, the activity was efficiently organized and warmly received by the local community.

More than a medical intervention, the event embodied a shared spirit of compassion and collaboration. MDF’s team of medical professionals provided care with both expertise and empathy—creating meaningful connections and moments of comfort for patients and families alike.

This initial engagement marks the beginning of a deeper partnership. The Mabuhay Deseret Foundation has expressed strong interest in expanding its services in the region to include cataract surgeries, as well as treatments for clubfoot and cleft lip conditions—offering transformative healthcare access to underserved Indigenous populations.

To formalize this shared commitment, Project Caraga Group and MDF recently entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), laying the foundation for a long-term collaboration dedicated to improving health outcomes in Indigenous communities.

This initiative reflects Project Caraga Group’s enduring commitment to inclusive and sustainable development—ensuring that IP communities benefit not only from environmental programs but also from essential social and health interventions.

Together, we take meaningful steps forward—toward healthier, more resilient, and empowered communities.

ecoCarbon Elevates Sustainable Finance Dialogue at SEC‑UNDP‑Canada Event

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 11:15:41 GMT

Manila, Philippines - Sophia Ong, Group Chief Markets Officer and Founding Partner of ecoCarbon Capital, recently joined leading regulators, development partners, and financial institutions at the “Sustainable Investments for Non‑Bank Financial Institutions” forum—organized by the Securities and Exchange Commission of the Philippines in collaboration with UNDP and the Embassy of Canada. Held at the SEC Headquarters in Makati City last June 2025, the event convened senior policymakers and private‑sector specialists to explore innovative avenues for mobilizing capital toward the Philippines’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

As a Resource Speaker, Ms. Ong shared ecoCarbon’s market‑based approach to scaling nature‑based solutions—highlighting the critical role that non‑bank financial institutions can play in financing forest conservation, renewable energy, and community‑driven projects like Project Caraga. Drawing on ecoCarbon’s experience structuring carbon‑credit partnerships in the Caraga Region, she outlined key strategies for:

De‑risking investments through blended‑finance mechanisms and performance guarantees

Integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) metrics into lending and investment decisions

Engaging Indigenous Peoples and local stakeholders as co‑beneficiaries of conservation finance

“By aligning private‑sector incentives with community stewardship and robust monitoring frameworks,” Ms. Ong emphasized, “we can unlock sustainable finance at scale—delivering both measurable climate impact and attractive returns.”

ecoCarbon Capital, the crucial markets arm underpinning Project Caraga, continues to pioneer these partnerships—linking international investors, impact‑focused lenders, and Indigenous communities in co‑managed forest‑carbon initiatives. The SEC‑UNDP‑Canada event underscored the potential for broader collaboration: from credit‑rating agencies designing green‑finance products, to non‑bank lenders extending working‑capital lines for eco‑enterprises, all contributing to the Project’s goals of ecosystem protection, sustainable livelihood development, and carbon‑sequestration targets.

In recognition of her contribution, the SEC presented Ms. Ong with a Certificate of Appreciation—and in accordance with the “Arbor Day Act of 2012,” will plant 10 Narra trees under her name at the SEC Forest in Angat Rainforest Watershed, Bulacan.

This milestone engagement not only amplifies ecoCarbon’s voice in the sustainable‑finance arena but also forges new pathways for public‑private‑community collaboration—essential for achieving the long‑term conservation and development objectives of Project Caraga.

Project Caraga Joins Launch of NatureNest Accelerator to Champion Nature-Based Solutions

daniel.wy.au@gmail.com (Daniel Au) — Mon, 28 Jul 2025 11:15:41 GMT

Manila, Philippines – Project Caraga proudly participated in the official launch of the NatureNest Accelerator, a new initiative under the Accelerating Green and Climate Finance in the Philippines: Nature-based Solutions (AGCF) Project.

Representing Project Caraga was Rowil Aguillon, Chief Markets Officer of Caraga Carbon Development, Inc., who joined the esteemed panel discussion on “Nature-based Solutions as a Strategic Approach to Achieving Country Priorities and Global Commitments.”

The event gathered changemakers and sustainability leaders from across sectors to explore how gender-responsive and community-rooted enterprises are scaling up solutions to address climate and biodiversity challenges through sustainable business models.

Funded by the Government of Canada through the Embassy of Canada in the Philippines, and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with the Department of Finance, the NatureNest Accelerator is designed and implemented by Villgro Philippines. The program aims to strengthen nature-based solutions (NbS) in the country by supporting enterprises that promote environmental resilience while uplifting livelihoods.

Project Caraga’s involvement highlights its growing role in advancing NbS in the Caraga Region and contributing to broader national and global sustainability goals.

Project Caraga Strengthens Commitment to Climate Resilience through Project TRANSFORM Stakeholder Consultation

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 11:15:41 GMT

Surigao City, Philippines — In a collective push to strengthen resilience and foster multi-sectoral collaboration in the Caraga Region, Project Caraga actively participated in the recent Project TRANSFORM Stakeholder Consultation held from July 15 to 17, 2025 in Surigao City. Representing the initiative was Owen Jaen , Chief Communications Officer of Caraga Carbon Development, Inc., who joined over 100 stakeholders from government, academe, civil society, and the private sector in shaping the region’s resilience roadmap.

Project TRANSFORM—which stands for Transdisciplinary Approach for Resilience and Sustainability through Multi-stakeholder Engagement—is a flagship program of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in partnership with various national agencies and local actors. The consultation served as a platform for dialogue, progress review, and joint planning focused on the pilot province of Surigao del Norte , particularly the municipalities of Burgos, Del Carmen, Malimono, and San Francisco .

Project Caraga’s presence at the event underscores its commitment to transdisciplinary collaboration as a key approach to addressing climate and environmental challenges in Caraga. Through its forest carbon, sustainable livelihoods, and community-based programs, the initiative is aligned with Project TRANSFORM’s mission to empower communities through inclusive, science-based, and sustainable solutions.

The consultation concluded with participants formalizing their pledges of support by signing a Commitment Wall, symbolizing a unified stand for a more resilient, inclusive, and climate-adaptive future in Caraga and beyond.

Moving Forward Together: Project Caraga Welcomes New NCIP Caraga Regional Director in Strengthened Push for IP Collaboration

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 11:15:41 GMT

Butuan City, Philippines – July 2025 — In a meaningful step toward deepening partnerships for Indigenous Peoples (IP) development and climate action, Project Caraga paid a courtesy visit to the newly appointed National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Caraga Regional Director, Atty. Julius Mabini, on July 1, 2025.

The Project Caraga delegation was led by Deputy CEO Ansel Cabrera and Chief Operating Officer Bonnie Sanchez of Caraga Carbon Development, Inc. (CCDI), the lead implementing entity of the initiative. The visit aimed to formally present Project Caraga’s milestones and forthcoming programs as it moves into full implementation across 10 CADT-holding IP communities in the Caraga Region.

Atty. Mabini, who brings to the role a solid background in public service and indigenous rights advocacy, expressed his commitment to ensuring that NCIP remains a responsive partner in empowering IP communities through sustainable, culturally sensitive, and rights-based approaches. His leadership signals a new chapter for inter-agency collaboration on Indigenous Peoples’ welfare in the region.

Project Caraga underscored the crucial role of the NCIP in guiding and upholding Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) processes, safeguarding ancestral domain rights, and ensuring that the voice and aspirations of IPs remain central to the project’s nature-based and community-rooted initiatives.

Project Caraga continues to anchor its work on respectful and strategic partnerships with government institutions like NCIP in realizing its core programs and activities. The engagement marks a renewed synergy as both institutions commit to bridging people, aligning purpose, and growing together for a just, inclusive, and climate-adaptive Caraga.

Project Caraga’s CODEV Team Sharpens Skills in Agro-Ecological Assessment through Transect Mapping Simulation

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 11:15:41 GMT

Butuan City, Philippines — In a continued effort to strengthen community engagement and deepen place-based knowledge, the Community Organization and Development (CODEV) Team of Project Caraga conducted a transect mapping simulation in Barangay Limon , Butuan City.

The simulation exercise followed a landscape transect that began at a mini forest , traversed rice fields and settlement areas , and concluded at a coconut farm . This hands-on activity was designed to improve the team’s capacity in conducting agro-ecological assessments , which are vital for understanding the environmental and livelihood dynamics within Indigenous Peoples (IP) communities.

Transect mapping is a key participatory rural appraisal method that helps community facilitators and development practitioners visualize land use, identify available natural resources, and assess farming systems in a specific area. By refining their skills through this simulation, the CODEV team is better prepared to carry out comprehensive livelihood and farming assessments at the CADT (Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title) level —a foundational step in tailoring Project Caraga’s interventions to the unique needs and landscapes of each IP community.

As Project Caraga advances its nature-based and community-centered programs, capacity-building activities such as this not only enhance technical proficiency but also promote deeper empathy, cultural awareness, and respect for indigenous knowledge systems—key ingredients in achieving inclusive and sustainable climate resilience.

Project Caraga Officially Listed with Verra, Moves Closer to Carbon Credit Generation

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 10:45:00 GMT

Key initiatives under the project include:

Reducing deforestation through improved monitoring and community engagement to prevent illegal logging and unsustainable land use.
Enhancing biodiversity by protecting critical habitats for wildlife and native flora.
Empowering forest communities by promoting sustainable livelihood options and capacity-building programs.

With this listing, Project Caraga affirms its commitment to delivering measurable climate benefits while uplifting the lives of indigenous peoples and conserving vital ecosystems in the region.

View the official Verra listing here: Project Caraga Verra Listing

Project Caraga, one of the largest forest conservation and community-based initiatives in the Philippines, has achieved a major milestone by being officially listed with Verra—the leading global standard for climate action and carbon credit certification.

This international recognition sets the stage for Project Caraga to begin generating verified carbon credits by next year. As a Verra-listed project, it will advance efforts in reducing deforestation, enhancing biodiversity, and supporting indigenous and local communities in the Caraga Region.

Paddling with Purpose: Butuan Dragons and the Spirit of Project Caraga

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 10:45:00 GMT

Along the mighty Agusan River in Butuan City, Philippines, the Butuan Dragons rise with the sun—paddles in hand, hearts aligned, and purpose clear. More than a sports team, they are a symbol of discipline, unity, and pride for Butuan and the entire Caraga Region. Their journey has taken them far: from being crowned Overall Champion in the 2025 Bugsay Balangay Nationwide Dragon Boat Competition, to standing as proud finalists at an international race in Guangxi Province, China last June.

But their pursuit goes beyond medals. For the Butuan Dragons, every stroke through the Agusan River is a call to protect it. They see the river not just as a training ground, but as heritage—an ecosystem intertwined with the stories of their people. This vision naturally aligns with Project Caraga’s mission: to empower communities while safeguarding natural resources.

The partnership between the Butuan Dragons and Project Caraga is built on shared aspirations. Both are deeply rooted in community and committed to shaping a better future. Through support for the team, Project Caraga strengthens its advocacy for environmental awareness, cultural preservation, and youth empowerment.

There’s a quiet parallelism in their work. Like a dragon boat crew moving in harmony, Project Caraga’s initiatives require trust, rhythm, and coordination. Both know that progress is a collective effort—and that every voice, paddle, and action counts.

As the Butuan Dragons continue to raise the bar in sport, they also help raise awareness for the Agusan River and the communities that depend on it. Together with Project Caraga, they paddle not just for victory, but for a legacy of resilience, unity, and environmental stewardship.

Strengthening Trust: Project Caraga Bolsters Joint Monitoring and Grievance Team with IP Leaders and NCIP

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 10:45:00 GMT

Project Caraga is taking a significant step in ensuring stronger collaboration and accountability across its partner ancestral domains. In partnership with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Caraga, its provincial offices, and designated Indigenous Peoples (IP) leaders from communities in Agusan del Norte, Surigao del Norte, and Surigao del Sur, the project is reinforcing its Joint Monitoring and Grievance Team.

This initiative aims to strengthen mechanisms for dialogue, conflict resolution, and community engagement — ensuring that concerns are addressed promptly, transparently, and with cultural sensitivity.

By working hand in hand with IP leaders and NCIP, Project Caraga continues to uphold its commitment to trust-building, inclusivity, and long-term peace within its forest conservation and community development efforts.