The Negros chapter of the Philippine Rural Reconstruction Movement (PRRM), a non-governmental organization (NGO) seeking to develop rural areas of the country, in collaboration with charity network Johanniter International, has been providing Manapla’s  Barangay Chambery with projects intended to benefit the livelihood of local residents.

According to the NGO, over 400 households have benefitted from the establishment of the Chambery Multisectoral Alliance (CHAMPA), which seeks to benefit local fisherfolk, farmers, among other sectors.

“[CHAMPA] enabled us to avail of various forms of assistance, as well as helping develop our leadership and capacities to lead and manage our organizations and projects,” said CHAMPA chair Nay Lucy Diaroz.

The project has allowed the community to acquire two community-managed toilets and a marine patrol boat; developed mangrove nurseries in six puroks, along with community organic gardens; among other benefits.

“The project was significant in helping develop, or raise, their critical consciousness; build up their confidence and capacities; and orient grassroots leaders to be effective agents of social and environmental reform,” said PRRM-Negros Area Manager Edwin Balajadia.

PRRM was founded in 1952 and has since inspired similar organizations in Colombia, Guatemala, Ghana, India, and Thailand./WDJ