Concerned agencies convened Wednesday to tackle issues and to step up the implementation of the Inclusive Science for Livelihood in Agri-Aqua (ISLA) in Small Islands Enhancing Livelihood through Science and Technology in the Great Sta. Cruz Island.

This, as  Mayor John Dalipe has directed agencies concerned to expedite the project and ensure the city meets its goals in empowering the Sta. Cruz Island community by uplifting their lives amidst the challenges encountered by the residents.

The ISLA STA CRUZ project is a 3-year project to be jointly undertaken by the City Government, Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR). It is expected to benefit the indigenous peoples of Sta. Cruz Island comprising of 86 households with 426 individuals.

The project calls for interventions on water desalination, Norwegian fish cage, community restaurant, establishment of artificial coral reefs, and various trainings to be implemented in the island to empower the community and to provide solutions to the challenges in the Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources (AANR) sector in the Great Sta. Cruz island.

The issuance of the Environmental Clearance Certificate (ECC) by the DENR is very crucial in the implementation of the project.

The meeting held at the City Hall conference room was attended by representatives from the City Planning and Development Coordinator, City Tourism Office, City Engineer’s Office, Office of the City Environment and Natural Resources (OCENR), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and City Budget Office among others.  (Sheila Covarrubias)