Updated: Aug 15
PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, PALAWAN – Farm Konekt, a Palawan-based and farm management platform and start-up company expands its operation to Brunei Darussalam.
This was announced during a meeting at Embassy of Brunei Darussalam in Manila, 28 July 2023. The said expansion is under its EAGA project, the ‘Farm Konekt Agri-Tech Supply Chain Platform for BIMP-EAGA Markets,’ which was presented to BIMP-EAGA key officials, experts, and representatives during this year’s Strategic Planning Meeting (SPM) in Bandar Seri Begawan in February.
Farm Konekt Founder and CEO John Gastanes said that this will lead to the clustering of services in Mindanao for the expansion phase, connecting it to the trade route between the Palawan, Mindanao, and BARMM to Muara Port in Brunei Darussalam.
“From there, Brunei will process its goods and send them to partner networks, especially in their Halal industry,” he adds.
The Farm Konekt Agri-Tech Supply Chain Platform for BIMP-EAGA Markets is one of the Philippine projects facilitated by MinDA which received a grant under BIMP-EAGA–Korea Cooperation Fund (BKCF) during its 2nd call for project proposal from BIMP-EAGA member countries in 2022.
With the recent expansion, the project will include clustering of Halal producers and distributors linked to Brunei Darussalam, who are seen to play a vital role in improving Halal standards, in collaboration with Philippine-based Halal Certifying bodies. The Farm Konekt Clustering platform will also capture Brunei's Halal Network in Indonesia and Malaysia, becoming the first consolidation and clustering platform for the BIMP-EAGA Sub-Region where private companies and business councils may integrate.
Gastanes stressed that the expansion marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey of creating a thriving ecosystem that enhances the inclusiveness in agri-fishery sector and brings sustainable progress to local farmers and fisherfolks in the EAGA region, especially for farmers with less than two hectarage, particularly in Brunei Darussalam’s network of partner farmers including in Malaysia and Indonesia.
“With this expansion, Farm Konekt is now poised to accelerate the growth and development of farmer clusters in Brunei, bolstered by the expertise and collaboration of our esteemed business partners, International Halal Trade Hub & Services (IHTHS Corporation), and Reefer Filipinas,” added Gastanes.
The said partnership was made possible by the support of Brunei Ambassador to the Philippines, Her Excellency Megawati Manan, who will provide technical expertise and support on bilateral policies relevant to the project.
Last July 15, the City Government of Puerto Princesa took a significant step in the battle against plastic waste pollution with the launch of the "Save the Puerto Princesa Bays" program. This comprehensive initiative calls on the community to unite and preserve the invaluable Puerto Princesa Bays. Held in Barangay Mandaragat, near densely populated coastal areas, the event emphasized the urgent need for waste management and plastic pollution awareness.
The city's administration is taking bold steps to protect its natural treasures. The "Save the Puerto Princesa Bays" initiative is a crucial wake-up call, urging residents and visitors alike to be conscious of their environmental impact. Held in the vibrant community of Old Buncag, where homes stand proudly beside the coastline, the launch served as a reminder that every action taken within these barangays directly affects the well-being of their beloved bays.
"We will launch the first academy for informal waste pickers with our partners, and we will set up the system to incentivize the collection of recyclables so that the households that participate can also get revenue," said John Vincent Gastanes of Eco Kolek and Project Zacchaeus.
Project Zacchaeus Eco Kolek: Empowering Eco Warriors
At the heart of the initiative is Project Zacchaeus Eco Kolek, an organization at the forefront of proper waste management and environmental preservation. Recognized as a vital partner in the fight against plastic waste pollution, the Eco Warriors from Project Zacchaeus Eco Kolek have become champions of sustainable practices. Their commitment to this cause has been amplified by the unwavering support from the City Government, allowing their projects to reach a broader audience across Puerto Princesa. Through this initiative, the once unheard voices of waste pickers now resonate as powerful agents of change.
A Call to Action: Uniting for a Cleaner Future
The launch of the "Save the Puerto Princesa Bays" program was a dynamic event that showcased the unity and collaboration among various stakeholders. Participants from all walks of life came together to engage in a series of environmental conservation activities, transcending mere words and turning intentions into tangible actions. Coastal cleanups saw individuals using fish nets to remove plastic waste floating on the water, while others bravely swam to collect trash, underscoring the unwavering dedication to protecting the bays.
The event brought together key players, including the Barangay LGU, PNP, Coast Guard, and CENRO, forming a formidable alliance with Project Zacchaeus Eco Kolek and other non-government organizations. This gathering of like-minded individuals reaffirmed their shared commitment to combat plastic waste pollution and safeguard the environment for future generations.
Beyond the Launch: Sustaining the Movement
The "Save the Puerto Princesa Bays" initiative does not end with the program's launch; it marks the beginning of an enduring commitment to sustainability. The City Government, in collaboration with partner organizations, envisions a future where waste management is a way of life, and plastic pollution is a thing of the past.
Educational awareness campaigns will continue, shedding light on the importance of responsible waste disposal, recycling, and the reduction of single-use plastics. Coastal cleanups, urban forestry, baywalk tree planting, mud ball throwing, and mangrove planting activities will become regular fixtures, fostering a sense of community stewardship.
Moving Forward
Puerto Princesa's "Save the Puerto Princesa Bays" initiative has ignited a spark of environmental consciousness, illuminating a path towards a cleaner, greener future. With the concerted efforts of the City Government, Project Zacchaeus Eco Kolek, and a united community, this program sets an inspiring example of what can be achieved when people come together for a common cause. Through sustained dedication and collective action, the people of Puerto Princesa are taking charge of their destiny, determined to protect their beloved bays, and leave a lasting legacy of environmental stewardship for generations to come. As other cities and municipalities take inspiration from Puerto Princesa's efforts, we move one step closer to a plastic-free world and a thriving planet for all.
Updated: Aug 15
USAID Assistant Administrator Michael Schiffer handed over collection vehicles and uniforms to the Eco Warriors on June 17, 2023. This initiative was aimed at enhancing the professional image of the Eco Warriors while also addressing stigma, health, and safety concerns associated with their work.
During his visit, Schiffer had the opportunity to observe the Eco Warriors as they sorted and stored collected recyclables. He also gained insights into their waste collection process and witnessed firsthand their leadership qualities and empowerment.
The assistance provided by USAID was facilitated through Project Eco Kolek thru Project Zacchaeus, a grantee of the #CleanCitiesBlueOcean program. This project focuses on supporting and empowering 60 informal waste collectors in Barangay Bancao-Bancao. Its primary objective is to create opportunities for these waste collectors to grow both personally and professionally. They are encouraged to utilize their voices, knowledge, and leadership skills to advocate for sustainable waste management practices within their communities.
By providing collection vehicles and uniforms, USAID aims to professionalize the Eco Warriors' appearance and improve their operational efficiency. This move also seeks to address the stigma often associated with informal waste collectors, recognizing their essential role in managing and recycling waste. Additionally, the focus on health and safety considerations aims to minimize potential risks faced by these individuals during their waste collection activities.
The visit by USAID Assistant Administrator Michael Schiffer highlights the importance of recognizing and supporting the efforts of informal waste collectors in promoting sustainable waste management practices. By empowering these individuals and providing them with the necessary resources, they can contribute significantly to the overall cleanliness and environmental well-being of their communities.
Through Project Zacchaeus and initiatives like the #CleanCitiesBlueOcean program, USAID demonstrates its commitment to sustainable development and environmental conservation. By investing in local communities and empowering individuals at the grassroots level, these projects foster a sense of ownership and responsibility among waste collectors, leading to more effective waste management practices and a cleaner, healthier environment for all.