Gabriel Baute first got involved with MAFI through its partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). In 2016, as DENR’s Deputy Protected Area Superintendent (PASU), he provided technical expertise as well as monitored and evaluated the joint program of DENR and MAFI in Mt. Apo.
“I commend MAFI for the successful implementation of its scholarship program. I really appreciate its efforts in conducting IEC campaigns on environmental conservation, and in involving its scholars in environmental conservation activities. Through community immersion, its scholars have learned to value the importance of protecting Mt. Apo,” he said.
He admitted that his work in DENR prior to MAFI days was mainly routinary, mostly involving policy regulation and enforcement only. When he became PASU in 2016, he began engaging local villages where he was exposed to several environmental concerns.
“My partnership with MAFI taught me to build good relationship with local communities and partners, and to be genuine and honest in serving them,” he emphasized.
“As PASU, I realized the significance of hiring the right people. Knowing the kind of training and values of MAFI scholars, I have tapped them in my work as they are easy to work with, such as in community entry and engagement. They perform their tasks well and produce significant results,” said the forester who now serves as PASU of Mt. Matutum in South Cotabato.
Prior to his transfer to South Cotabato, Gabriel provided assistance to various environmental initiatives like clean-up drive, forest-fire fighting, evaluation climb, and endorsement to the Protected Area Management Board of strip planting in strict protection zone in Mt. Apo. “Our sincerity in executing environmental initiatives is the key to successful implementation,” he shared.
The forester hopes that MAFI will support scholars in the areas of agriculture and environment as these are crucial for the long-term sustainability of Mt. Apo.
For. Gabriel Baute
DENR-PASu
Partner
