KALIBO, Aklan – The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) is pushing an agri-tourism project that will benefit the Ati indigenous group of Boracay Island.
The agency targets to develop the 3.2064-hectare land awarded to the Boracay Ati Tribal Organization (BATO) by President Rodrigo Duterte in Barangay Manoc-Manoc, Malay, Aklan last Nov. 8, 2018.
DAR regional director Stephen Leonidas said the government’s plan to assist the Ati community in agriculture or farm tourism will help its members earn additional income.
He added it will also provide opportunities for BATO members to address the demand for fruit and vegetable requirements of establishments in the world-famous island.
“Ngayon lang namin naramdaman ang kahulugan ng pagkakaisa at pagdamay sa ngalan ng pagmamahalan,” said BATO member David Tamboon.
Leonidas noted tourist hotels source most of their fruits and vegetables supply outside of the province.
He said DAR’s efforts to provide agricultural expertise and connect Ati farmers with tourist hotels to market their farm produce will give them a better and sustainable livelihood. (With a report from Akean Forum/PN)
