MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and Southern Davao Agroforest Resources Corporation (SDAFRC) have entered into a Joint Venture Agreement (JVA) aimed at developing a 199.51-hectare forestland in Sta. Maria, Davao Occidental for agroforestry purposes. 

The project falls under the DENR’s Upland Agro-forestry Program (UAfP), which seeks to improve agricultural productivity, enhance forest cover, and alleviate poverty in rural upland areas through the establishment of agroforestry farms. SDAFRC will manage and develop the designated area for timber production, forest protection, and agroforestry crops.

The JVA was signed on February 10, 2021 but SDAFRC is currently looking for a partner corporation to develop the 199.51 forestland in Davao Occidental.

Corporations and individuals interested in joining the venture may contact Mr. Eduardo Morales of Davao Agroforest via email at davaoagroforest@gmail.com or by phone at 0906-213-5508.

Under the terms of the JVA, SDAFRC is responsible for submitting a Comprehensive Agroforestry Development Plan (CADP) within six months, overseeing the management and protection of the forest area, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. 

The corporation is also required to provide employment opportunities to local residents and submit annual reports on the project’s progress.

The DENR, for its part, will provide technical guidance, monitor the implementation of the project, and ensure adherence to environmental laws. The agency is also tasked with issuing the necessary permits and ensuring that the project complies with the DENR’s sustainable forest management standards.

Financial arrangements

The agreement includes a revenue-sharing arrangement, with SDAFRC required to pay the DENR a share of the revenue generated from the project. The share is set at 5 percent from annual crops, 4 percent from biennial crops, and 3 percent from perennial crops. 

Compliance and monitoring

Both parties are required to ensure the project complies with environmental and legal regulations. The DENR will conduct periodic monitoring to assess the progress and impact of the initiative, while SDAFRC must submit detailed annual reports on the project’s operations.

Potential impact

The collaboration aims to balance economic development with environmental sustainability, creating jobs and supporting rural development in the region. The project is part of the DENR’s broader efforts to promote sustainable agroforestry as a tool for environmental conservation and rural economic growth.