TACLOBAN CITY — The Energy Development Corporation (EDC) underscored the vital role of community-based conservation in sustaining the country’s geothermal energy resources during the recently-held Philippine Forestry Education Network, Inc. (PFEN) 2nd International Conference and Assembly, held in partnership with Visayas State University.
EDC Assistant Vice President and Corporate Support Functions head Allan Barcena told forestry educators, policymakers, and practitioners that the health of Philippine forests and watersheds is directly tied to the sustainability of the nation’s geothermal energy sector, where the Philippines ranks among the world’s top producers.
Barcena showcased EDC’s BINHI environmental program, which prioritizes ecosystem-based restoration and the protection of threatened native tree species, moving beyond traditional tree-planting initiatives. Through partnerships with government agencies, local communities, schools, and conservation groups, BINHI aims to revive forest landscapes while promoting biodiversity and environmental education.
One highlighted initiative was the Tongonan Upland Roast project in Leyte, developed with the Tongonan Farmers Association, which promotes sustainable livelihoods that support local biodiversity.
Barcena also cited collaborations with schools and the Department of Education to raise environmental awareness, along with employee engagement programs that immerse participants in native forest ecosystems.
The conference presentation also introduced several digital tools under BINHI, including a flora database and a community-based tree-growing platform, designed to expand public access to conservation knowledge.
Barcena emphasized that advancing forest restoration requires a joint effort among the private sector, government, academe, and communities. He stressed that long-term success depends on initiatives that are both science-based and community-driven.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
