Empowering Marilog's IP Farmers: Temmuanan Marketing Co-op Elects New Officers
The indigenous people (IP) farmers of the Matigsalug-Manobo tribe in Marilog District have long felt the need for a unified effort to address their sustainability and socio-economic challenges. This need inspired the establishment of the Temmuanan Marketing Cooperative which aims to develop sustainable practices while tackling environmental and economic issues.
On February 13, 2024, the members of the Temmuanan Co-op came together to elect their Board of Directors and Officers. The Board, led by Chairman Datu Diosdado Mampao and Vice Chairman Datu Juanito Mandahay, was appointed by the members themselves. Their role is to govern with legal and ethical standards, ensuring the welfare of both the Board and the cooperative as a whole.
In addition to the Chairman and Vice Chairman, the Board includes a Secretary and a Treasurer. The election also led to the appointment of members to various committees such as Audit, Education & Training, Ethics, Mediation, Gender and Development, and Election.
The Temmuanan Co-op aims to support its members by developing upland agricultural practices, including the adoption of the Sloping Agricultural Land Technology (SALT). This initiative is supported by Ridge to Reef, Incorporated, which is committed to providing technical guidance through Forester Consultant For. Perry Maningas and farming expert Mr. Isagani Olaco. Together, the Temmuanan Co-op and Ridge to Reef strive to sow the seeds of sustainability and prosperity in Marilog, working hand in hand for the betterment of the indigenous farmers in the region.
Engr. Diego B. Tautho, MSERM, REB, EnP, is the President of R2R Construction, an ISO 9001:2015 certified company based in Davao City, specializing in Sanitary Landfill Facilities and Wastewater Treatment Facilities. Additionally, he serves as a Board Member of Ridge to Reef Environmental Consultancy, Inc., overseeing environmental consultancy engagements across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. With licenses in Civil Engineering, Real Estate Brokering, and Environmental Planning, he holds a Master's Degree in Environmental Resource Management, showcasing his expertise and commitment to environmental sustainability.
