Pamamahagi: Protecting the heritage of indigenous lands

🌿 The Ayta and Bicol communities in the Philippines have long depended on the benefits of Banaba and Pili trees for both medicine and livelihood. From Banaba tea, used to treat illnesses, to Pili oil, valued for industrial uses and cosmetics, these resources play a crucial role in community well-being and provide economic opportunities.
💡 The Access and Benefit-Sharing (ABS) Project, led by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Biodiversity Management Bureau in partnership with UNDP Philippines and supported by the Global Environment Facility, aims to ensure that these communities receive fair compensation for their traditional knowledge and contributions to biodiversity conservation. Through the ABS Project, the indigenous peoples and local communities can better protect the heritage of their land and share its bounty in the spirit of "pamamahagi".
🤝 The ABS Project promotes the sustainable use of natural resources, supports fair trade, and strengthens partnerships among indigenous peoples and local communities, governments, the private sector, and academic institutions to ensure the protection of our country’s biodiversity.