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After years of implementing organic farming practices to improve soil health and restore biodiversity in Carmen, the Going Bananas Project- Restoring Livelihoods of Conflict-Affected Farmers in Cotabato concluded with a closing ceremony on August 27, 2025, at Carmen Municipal Hall.
The Going Bananas Project is an intervention designed to contribute to peacebuilding and sustainable economic development through the restoration of agriculture-based livelihoods in Carmen, Cotabato.
During the ceremony, Marlon Mangelin, president of COSFA Farmers Association, expressed his gratitude to the project collaborators for their continued support and for entrusting them with the seedlings needed for their training.
“Una sa tanan, dako jud among pagpasalamat kaninyong tanan. Sa USM, Aide Environment, LGU Carmen, ug labi na sa TreeLife nga naghatag jud ug pamaagi, sa mga seedling para matabangan mi para sa among mga kinahanglan. Usa kini nga pamaagi padung sa paglambo namong tanan diri sa Carmen,”
In response, the project collaborators assured their full support for future projects in the municipality of Carmen, opening new doors for future collaborations with other municipalities in Cotabato province.
The closing program was attended by Vice-Governor Rochella Marie “Ella” T. Taray, Jerry Taray, CEO of TreeLife, Lysanne Vergroesen, Director of AideEnvironment, Gurbir Bhullar, professor from the Bern University, and Eline Minneboo from RVO Netherlands Agency. Key local partners also present included Judilyn Española from the Local Government Unit of Carmen and Dr. Glyn G. Magbanua, USM ESO Director, representing the president, Dr. Jonald L. Pimentel.
The Going Bananas Project underscores the importance of fostering collaborations by uniting academic expertise, international support, and local commitment in equipping farmers with sustainable practices, and working towards the attainment of lasting peace and sustainable livelihoods.
Jimwell P. Pande
