Aetas get malunggay seminar

BAMBAN, Tarlac – The Department of Agriculture, Anti-Poverty Commission, Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) and Tarlac government on Friday launched “Buklod-Serbisyo Para sa Katutubong Aeta, in Barangay San Vicente, here.

Hundreds of Aetas attended the affair wherein the government officials assured the tribal residents of assistance.

Officers of DA and BPI urged the Aetas to plant malunggay in their farms so that they can earn money from the selling the nutritious plants. 

The lecturers also told Aetas that malunggay is good for their health. 

Bio-Matt authorities who were also present at the launching of the project, told the Aetas that the company will purchase the malunggay from the tribes. 

Malunggay can produce bio-fuel and the vegetable is an ingredient for bread.

The plant leaves can be also serve as a substitute for tea and also an ingredients for beauty cosmetics, the lecturer said. 

They said malunggay is a wonder plant because it can be easily grown and require only little water.

A memorandum of agreement (MOA) was forged between Tarlac Gov. Victor Yap, Director Alice Ilaga of DA and Dir. Joel Rudinas of BPI for the success of the  project. 

The MOA signing was witnessed by Rep. Jeci Lapus, Mayor Leonardo Anunciacion and leaders of the Aetas.

Danilo Ramos of the President Arroyo Caravan Operation said that a medical mission will be sent to the area. 

He said that the medical mission will be sponsored by Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR).