Empowering communities for climate change adaptation through sustainable agricultural development extension program (SADEP) in Occidental Mindoro [Philippines]

The Sustainable Agricultural Development Extension Program (SADEP) is now on the ninth-year of actively promoting environmental education and sustainable livelihood in the uplands and farming communities of Occidental Mindoro [Philippines]. This program aims to promote the use of ecologically sound farming practices, generate income through proper utilization of locally available resources, train farm households to increase their productivity, and increase community awareness on environmental conservation. The College forged partnerships and collaborations with organizations, and private individuals in the implementation of projects in agriculture, environment, livelihood, and education. Observed impacts include: (1) adoption of ecologically sound farming practices, (2) generation of sustainable livelihood, (3) increased farm productivity and income, (4) creating healthier, cleaner and greener communities, (5) improved farmers' access to information, technology, and service institution, (6) forging of partnerships among development organizations and agencies, and (7) enhanced decision-making capability. The program can be a very effective instrument in bringing development to the countryside. It has achieved the following: enabled the generation of sustainable livelihood among farming families, enhanced community awareness on environmental conservation and protection, rekindled aspirations of the people to attain better lives, and help strengthen the Institution's working relationships with other organizations. The collaborations formed reinforced the projects of SADEP and opened many socio-economic opportunities to the communities. It is recommended that partnership with the community and other local organizations must be institutionalized to help monitor, evaluate, and sustain the different extension projects. Existing linkages must be strengthened and other organizations with similar undertakings must be invited to improve delivery of services. Continuing capability building of communities especially in natural resource management and entrepreneurship is necessary. An impact study should be conducted to find out the project's contribution to the quality of life in the rural communities.