Farmers from four barangays in Zamboanga Sibugay recently received renewed Certificates of Stewardship Contracts (CSCs) through a turnover ceremony facilitated by the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Kabasalan. The distribution events took place on January 14 and 21 in Barangays Loboc and Sisay in Tungawan, New Sagay in R.T. Lim, and Dalisay in Titay.
Led by Development Management Officer IV For. Elma L. Suano, the activity benefited 157 farmers who had applied for renewal of their stewardship contracts between 1995 and 1997. Specifically, 92 recipients were from Loboc and Sisay, 15 from New Sagay, and 50 from Dalisay. The event was attended by For. Darwin D. Gapor, Chief of the Enforcement and Monitoring Section of CENRO Kabasalan, as well as barangay captains Asterio Arambala (Loboc), Amado Daarol (Sisay), Jerry Agabon (New Sagay), and Carlos Santianez (Dalisay).
During the turnover, DMO IV Suano, speaking on behalf of CENRO Kabasalan CENR Officer Dennis N. Catalan, emphasized the importance of responsible land stewardship. She urged beneficiaries to cultivate and care for the awarded lands, ensuring their sustainability for future generations. She also commended the recipients and local leaders for their cooperation in the renewal process.
As part of the orientation, For. Gapor reviewed the terms and conditions of the stewardship contracts, reinforcing the responsibilities of the beneficiaries. He also provided copies of the Control Map, detailing the designated Integrated Social Forestry Program (ISFP) areas in each barangay.
The Certificate of Stewardship, granted under Letter of Instruction (LOI) 1260, allows individuals and families to occupy and cultivate portions of forest lands under the ISFP. Each certificate is valid for 25 years and is renewable for another 25 years, ensuring long-term access and management of forest resources.
The program has been instrumental in promoting sustainable land use and enhancing the livelihood of local farming communities. One of the beneficiaries, Alan Pagbingwit from Loboc, Tungawan, expressed gratitude for the initiative, highlighting how the program provides significant support for their livelihood and secures opportunities for future generations.
Through these renewed stewardship contracts, CENRO Kabasalan continues to uphold its commitment to environmental conservation while empowering local farmers with secure land tenure, fostering responsible land management, and improving agricultural productivity in the region.