The BaiAni Foundation through the MORE WITH LESS project, organized a groundbreaking event at NGD Pension, Brgy Punta Baja in Municipality of Rizal from December 7th to 9th, 2023. The event marked the introduction of 49 newly graduated individuals from BIOCHAR training—an initiative poised to elevate agricultural sustainability and economic prosperity in the municipality.

Diverse stakeholders graced the occasion, including local government representatives, partner agencies such as PCA, DA, MENRO, LionHeart, and farmers ranging from indigenous people and former rebels to seasoned veterans and enthusiastic youth in the agricultural domain. The activity also welcomed members of the municipality's coconut federation from various associations.

Municipality of Rizal, comprised of 11 barangays, serves as the epicenter for advancing a innovative concept—livelihood integration. This innovative approach aims to efficiently utilize coconut production waste, transforming it into biochar, thereby enhancing soil fertility, bolstering resilience against environmental adversities like droughts or floods, and even mitigating soil pollutants and heavy metals.

The event ignited enthusiasm among participants, prompting them to commit to disseminating this newfound knowledge across their respective barangays. The newly elected Barangay Captain of Punta Baja pledged to replicate BIOCHAR equipment, establishing cooperatives in collaboration with LGUs to support community-based programs targeting farmers. Mayor Norman Ong of Rizal Municipality and Barangay Captain Eugenio Buenaflor committed budgetary support to sustain and scale this transformative initiative.

Renowned Biochar Expert, Mr. Philip Camara, President of St. Augustine Sambali Fund, Inc. and Director of Philippine Biochar Association, Inc. (PBiA), imparted his expertise, showcasing three equipment variants and conducting live assembly demonstrations. His hands-on approach illuminated the concept and production processes, captivating the audience.

The program was spearheaded by our graduates from the MWL TOT, namely JED Tarbok, President of Coconut Federation Municipality of Rizal, and Lyn Pareño, President of Brgy Punta Baja Coconut Association. Additionally, steering the initiative were Ms. Mary Grace Abdon, Senior Specialist of MWL Green Component, and Ms. Liza Zurbito, BaiAni Training Specialist.

The resounding success of this initiative propels its expansion to other municipalities willing to adopt waste-to-product interventions, promising transformative advancements in agricultural practices and economic productivity. The impact is poised to resonate beyond Rizal Municipality, heralding a new era of sustainable farming practices and economic growth across various communities.