THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has opened the first native stingless bee culture site at the JET Farm in Sitio Julo, Sta. Rita, Olongapo City.
The project was aimed at promoting biodiversity conservation, support sustainable agricultural practices, and improve pollination services while creating a new source of livelihood for residents.
DTI Provincial Director Enrique Tacbad said the initiative also seeks to develop a new local product from Olongapo and commercialize it to generate employment and income for the community.
“The objective is to provide a source of livelihood to the people of Olongapo City. More so, the development of a new product from Olongapo City and to commercialize, thereby generating employment and income to the people,” he added.
The bee culture will also promote the health benefits of honey and provide sustainable environmental protection in the area.
The project is implemented in partnership with the Olongapo City Agricultural Office and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).
As a means to support its implementation, DTI and DOST will assist in product development through innovation and technology, as well as in the packaging and labeling of honey products.
Both agencies will also help improve market access through trade fairs, business-to-business matching, which links sellers directly with buyers, and other selling platforms.