Resource Mapping
Community Mapping
Resource Mapping was conducted in Bendum in 1992. The purpose of community maps was to enable the community to articulate their own perceptions of their situation, of their environment, and to tell their own story.
The maps also helped the people formulate community policies, specifically on the extraction of resources. Maps were used to make an inventory of resources, to record the presence of plants and fauna and to show the diversity in terms of species and uses. They provided the basis for dialogue with the government.
Environmental Research
The Weather Station in Bendum
Similarly, a research building was established for the joint activities of ESSC and the community on environmental research on soil and water quality.
In Bendum, ESSC engaged in research that focused on standard weather parameters, stream flow, and land use within the Upper Pulangi Catchment. The project involved the measuring, monitoring and modeling of environmental processes in this tropical upland catchment in relation to land management changes.
Livelihood Program
Women weaving mats
Livelihood activities were conducted in 1993 to help the learners understand basic math concepts. Initially, the activities were focused on weaving mats. This expanded to the production of abaca in 1994.
In 1998, a Livelihood Building (Balay hu Panagebendaya) was eventually built. Its purpose was to consolidate the different livelihood activities of the community and unify their efforts to address seasonal food shortages.
Skills training on the production of tribal crafts and traditional products were conducted. Sharing of knowledge and expertise on alternative farming technologies and other practices were also done to help improve the economic condition of the community.
In 2000, the Young Adult Skills Training Program was formally set-up to train the young members of the community in developing livelihood opportunities and in helping them define and articulate their indigenous identity and role in the community.
