MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR (Excerpt from the Publication)
It is good to note that the foundation has ushered in new projects and formed new partnerships in 2021 despite the pandemic and the challenges of the "new normal" world. Mahintana is granted by the United States of America Department of Agriculture through ACDI/VOCA support for the Sultan Kudarat Coffee Farming and Farm Enterprise Enhancement Project for the coffee farmers in the said province. We have also signed up for a new project entitled, Strengthening Holistic Initiatives and Engagements in Wao (SHINE Wao) supported from the Swiss Embassy. SHINE Wao Project is aimed at capacitating local peace and development actors in Wao, Lanao del Sur. In addition, the foundation gained project support from the DILG Civil Society Participation Fund in November. The foundation has also engaged into a new project which provides Technical Assistance to Pineapple Fiber Production in partnership with Dole Philippines, Inc.
Significantly, on its 44th year, the foundation has established the Mahintana Foundation, Inc. Learning Resource Center which will serve as a development hub for Nutripan Bakery and Commissary, HEALTH Plus warehouse for pharmaceutical supplies, demo farm supplies and environmental program and renewable energy solutions in support to the continuing partnership with local governments through the institution-building and governance program. The foundation has also established the Sustainable Eco-tourism and Environment-based Innovations Demo (SEED) Farm showcasing local agro-ecotourism and promote sustainable integrated farming approaches.
In the coming year, we foresee the expansion of our Social Enterprise Program, with the establishment of HealthPlus in two (2) more LGUs in Region XII and Nutripan Bakery in another two (2) LGUs in Mindanao. This year also marks the final year of our 3-year EU-ASEP supported SOLARES Project. Together with all our project beneficiaries in the off-grid rural communities within the GIDAs in Region XII, let me also thank all our partners for the SOLARES Project.
With all these opportunities in our hands, we are humbled and grateful for the support of our donors and stakeholders. Indeed, no amount of effort done alone could have had enough of an impact. The support of our Board of Trustees has been essential and instrumental for achieving our goals. The foundation is truly grateful and appreciative of the professionalism of its staff despite the challenges and the risks they face this year and even onwards as they passionately serve our communities.
