The Project

DOON PO SA AMIN: “KAUPAS, GRASYA SA UNAS: PANGINABUHIAN SA LUMULOPYO HONG SUMILIHON”, is the focus study as official entry of Sumilihon Central Elementary School to the DPSA Quest 2011-Year 2. It belongs to the “Livelihood and Economics” category.

Subtitle: “Kaupas” (Cultured Mushroom): A Livelihood of Sumilihon Settlers

The research features the small “Kaupas” (cultured mushroom) plantation at Barangay Sumilihon, Butuan City. The mushroom plantation started way back in 1980 when the Cabatingan family attended a livelihood seminar-workshop in Davao City. From its raw material dried banana leaves, sterilized dried trunk of banana plant, ” Abuno”, and kakawate leaves; mushroom became a livelihood of the local settlers.

The study gives an overview on how to raise income despite of the economic crisis that the local settlers dealt with. Started with a very low capital, it gives every local mushroom planter a great chance to raise profit for their family. With 31 years in the market, it reaches buyers across Butuan City to some parts of Mindanao, Visayas, and even Metro Manila.

The research does not only showcase the profit from the mushroom farming but also provides the utilization of dried banana leaves to be more fruitful and useful instead of just throwing it. It also offers an idea for school children to gather “Unas” (dried banana leaves) to sell it to the local mushroom planters since banana plant is abundant in the locality.

From a simple preparation, opens an avenue for every local settler to properly utilize the natural resources and turn it into a profitable livelihood for the family.