Floridablanca, Pampanga — The Aeta community in Floridablanca is reaping the rewards of a sustainable livelihood and food security program, as 200 farmers successfully harvested a wide variety of crops from a 10-hectare farmland at the Floridablanca National Agricultural School (FNAS).
Their hard work has yielded abundant produce such as string beans, okra, eggplant, sponge gourd, rice, chili, peanuts, corn, cassava, and sweet potato through the help of the provincial government of Pampanga to promote the richness of Pampanga’s agricultural heritage.
On Thursday, Governor Lilia “Nanay” Pineda and Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian personally joined the Aeta farmers in harvesting the crops, underscoring the government’s strong commitment to food sustainability and inclusive livelihood.
This initiative is anchored on a 30-year usufruct agreement between the Provincial Government and FNAS, giving the Aetas secure access to farmland and long-term livelihood opportunities.
To strengthen productivity, the Capitol continues to provide seedlings, fertilizers, and technical assistance.
For his part, Secretary Gatchalian announced that the Aeta community will be included in the DSWD’s Cash-for-Work Program to ensure long-term sustainability.
As initial assistance, the DSWD distributed relief goods, while the Provincial Government extended cash support to the farmers and their families.
“We support these kinds of programs because President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. himself is promoting urban farming and urban gardening. That’s food security and additional income for our IPs,” said Secretary Gatchalian.
In addition, part of the harvest is purchased directly by the Capitol to supply feeding programs, district hospitals, and the provincial jail, while transport vehicles and dedicated market stalls have also been provided to help the Aetas bring their produce to market.
“This program is not just about farming—it’s about empowerment, dignity, and sustainability. By supporting the Aeta farmers, we are strengthening food security while providing a reliable source of livelihood for their families,” Governor Pineda said.
The Sustainable Livelihood Program continues to stand as a strong model of government-community partnership, cultivating both the land and the lives of those who nurture it.