The project "Developing the Capacities of Tribal Indigenous Communities towards Poverty Reduction in Tarlac, Philippines" aims to address poverty and marginalization of Aetas by focusing on health and agri-enterprise development. CADIS International and its local partner Health Development Foundation (HADFAFI) share the vision of strengthening the resilience of these indigenous peoples’ communities.
The project designs and implements several programs that improve the socio-economic status of the Aetas.
1. Majority of tribal families have improved access to needed healthcare services
In 2024, medical missions were conducted in the IP communities of Santa Juliana by HADFAFI’s medical team in collaboration with the Philippine Dermatological Society of the Philippines Central Luzon Chapter and the local government (LGU) of Capas. The program assisted a total of 279 adults and 93 children, for a total of 335 individuals. Almost 5,000 units of medicines (common and antibiotics) were dispensed to the patients for free. Aside from medicines, 135 sanitary toilet bowls were distributed to the target communities. Each community is in charge of mounting and maintaining it.Health Services are the core strength of HADFAFI, reflecting its primary mandate throughout its years of operation. The health conditions of both upland and lowland Aeta and non-Aeta communities are the primary focus of many of its projects.
2. Aeta families produce climate-resilient crops aside from banana blossom gathering.
One of the main challenges in Sitio Pisapungan community is access to water irrigation. A water catchment area (mini dam) was constructed to irrigate the farms of that community. They were able to plant 1128 banana trees, citrus, dwarf coconuts and hundreds of endemic trees. However, the recent storms and succeeding droughts destroyed 298 trees. Some Aeta communities, located in mountainous areas, utilized the remaining trees to supplement their own root crop cultivation.
3. Products of Aeta farmers bought at fair trade price
Training on financial literacy in collaboration with the Trade and Development Training Center was conducted for 22 youth and 33 parents. Vegetable noodle production continued and they produced an average of 55 packs of noodles per day. The vegetable noodles are sold to SAKLAY CAFE of Caritas. Part of the income is used to sustain the programs of Caritas for the differently-abled and scholars.
4. Aeta Farmers have adequate know-how, as well as tools and farm inputs
Eighty-seven (87) farmer families received farm tools. Some families received 28 water buffalos (carabao). These animals are used for plowing the fields instead of tractors. Any offspring of the carabaos is also dispersed to other families who don’t have.
5. Aeta Farmers have access to low-cost financing for farm production
Sixty (60) goats were dispersed to six Aeta communities. As of 2024, the livelihood program involving goats is still being monitored. They also dispersed additional goats to communities with excellent records of livestock management. 148 ducks were also dispersed to the communities for raising and selling. The animal dispersion program has helped augment their family income.
At the lowland, they established a Demo Farm for advanced agricultural development in Sta. Juliana. High-yielding vegetables (eggplant, chili, sweet potato) are planted. By showcasing successful crop cultivation practices, the demo farm inspires and encourages community members to engage in agricultural activities. It also facilitates market access of their products.
6. Aeta people have appreciation of their culture and way of life in settlement communities
Leadership Training was conducted for 25 young participants to actively engage themselves to community development and advocacy for the rights to their ancestral domain as provided by the Philippine Constitution. They showcased Aeta traditions, focusing on traditional attire, rituals, and cultural education. This encouraged youth to overcome their shyness and become confident leaders, preparing them for future life.
Young Aeta leaders have assisted the Elders’ dialogue with the mayor to inquire about the response to the previously passed resolutions.
7. Capacity development for community-based ancestral domain delineation, survey, and titling
In order to have support for the technical delineation of ancestral domain, the TUA (Traditional Upland Association) group discussed the petition for a Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT) application. Representatives from 12 sitios signed the petition to be included and accepted as members of the TUA. To obtain the CADT, the community needs to gather evidence of their ancestral domain. This may include collecting old pictures, cemetery records, historical accounts, and testimonies to demonstrate their long-standing presence on the land. This remains a challenge to their communities.
In 2025, they plan to improve and better develop the demo farm in Santa Juliana. The demo farm demonstrates the feasibility of farming in the Aeta community's area. By showcasing successful crop cultivation practices, the demo farm aims to inspire and encourage community members to engage in agricultural activities. It serves as a practical example of how farming can contribute to food security, generate income, and improve the overall well-being of the community. Moreover, it facilitates market access and product distribution.
Year 3 saw Hadfafi Health Services demonstrate exceptional strength and consistency, effectively addressing the needs of Aeta and non-Aeta communities. The partnership with LAKAS PAMAYANAN, a pioneering Aeta community in Zambales, marks a significant milestone. This community has made remarkable strides, producing leaders, professionals, and gaining legislative representation. Their achievements, including obtaining the Certificate of Ancestral Domain (CADT), serve as a beacon of hope, particularly for the youth of Aeta and Sta. Julians Capas, Tarlac residents aiming for future CADT certification.
