5357(II)_Don Bosco Mati Response to Covid19

Mindanao Bosconians preparing for post-pandemic times

April 16, 2020

By Fr. Julius Sanchez, SDB
Rector

Mati, Philippines (FIS), 15 April 2020 -- Mati, the capital of the province of Davao Oriental, is situated on the southeastern side of Mindanao. Although known for being a coastal city, agriculture and agro-business is the main source of living of the people. Hence, the Salesian community in Mati City initiates a project to make their land productive during this continuing enhanced community quarantine. The idea is that, while everyone is busy helping frontliners and victims of COVID-19, they are getting ready for the post-pandemic scenario. Led by Fr. Rex Carbilledo (Director of the TVET) they have started already their preparations for land cultivation and planting of vegetables. They plan to plant eggplants, ladyfingers (okra), lettuce, sweet potato (kamote), cassava, onions, ginger and sweet corns. Some of these have already been planted. In a month or so, they will begin to harvest their farm products. God-willing, they can provide a source of cheap and organic vegetables and hopefully they can extend this farm technology to the local people and neighboring communities.

Don Bosco Mati is one of the two Salesian communities located in Mindanao island, with 6 SDB strong presence. Salesians are entrusted with the Parish of Sacred Heart, Boarding Houses, Vocation training center combined with the Secondary technical school.