On March 5, 2014, Zarraga witnessed an event that would lay the foundation for its sustainable future—the first-ever Sustainable Integrated Area Development (SIAD) Workshop, led by SEA Inc.’s very own lead activator, Nicanor Perlas. The workshop was more than just a meeting; it was a convergence of visionaries from the local government, businesses, and civil society organizations, all coming together with one goal: a greener, more sustainable Zarraga.

What made this workshop stand out? It wasn’t just about discussions—it was about action. Nicanor Perlas, known for his transformative approach, guided the participants through exercises that encouraged collective thinking and cross-sector collaboration. He didn’t just talk about sustainability in theory; he showed Zarraga’s stakeholders how to apply it practically and cohesively.

The advantage of this workshop? It sparked the kind of collaboration that turns ideas into impact. By bringing together diverse sectors, it created a unified approach for tackling everything from local agricultural practices to resource management. The beauty of SIAD is its holistic view, making sure that every community member, business, and government action plays a part in creating a thriving, sustainable environment.

The impact? Just look at Zarraga now—a model of what happens when stakeholders work together for a shared vision. Thanks to this workshop, the foundation for a sustainable, integrated future was set. It’s a reminder that the road to progress doesn’t need to be paved alone—it’s better when we do it together.

Here’s to the success of SIAD Zarraga: a workshop that didn’t just talk about sustainability, it ignited it!