Javie Barcinal

Javie Barcinal, is a nature conservationist and storyteller from Antique, Philippines, dedicated to community-led biodiversity conservation. He founded Dulungan Youth, a leading grassroots organization focused on protecting the critically endangered Rufous-headed Hornbill, or ‘Dulungan.’ His work integrates economic development, intersectoral collaboration, and environmental conservation to create a regenerative and equitable future. Facing challenges in conserving the Dulungan and its habitat in the Central Panay Mountain Key Biodiversity Area, Javie aims to establish a conservation hub. This initiative will develop community-based strategies, including alternative livelihoods, ecological education via the EcoLearning Hub and Field Museum, and assisted natural regeneration through the Dulungan Community Tree Nursery and Agroforestry Capability Development. Central to his approach is empowering local communities to lead conservation efforts, ensuring long-term sustainability by fostering a deep connection between people and their environment. His holistic vision emphasizes inclusive, grassroots-driven conservation.