Manila: The Philippines has successfully secured a PHP8.7 million grant from the Adaptation Fund (AF) to develop a climate adaptation project aimed at strengthening the resilience of farmers in Mindanao and safeguarding the country’s food security, as announced by the Department of Finance (DOF).
According to Philippines News Agency, the grant was approved by the AF Board during its 45th Board Meeting held from October 6 to 10 in Bonn, Germany. A grant represents financial aid provided by governments or development partners that does not require repayment.
The Adaptation Fund is a global climate fund dedicated to supporting projects that help vulnerable countries adapt to climate change impacts in alignment with their priorities. The Philippines, represented by the DOF, is part of the AF Board and represents the Non-Annex I Parties, which include developing nations.
The grant will fund the development of the Agricultural Interventions for Development: Harnessing and Enhancing Adaptation and Resilience Tools and Strategies for the Philippine Fruit and Vegetable Industry project. This project’s concept note was also approved by the AF Board during the same meeting.
The initiative aims to enhance the adaptive capacity of farming communities across Mindanao through strategic investments in shared service facilities, sustainable agriculture financing, and policy reforms. These efforts are designed to provide farmers with the necessary tools and technologies to withstand the increasing impacts of climate change and extreme weather events, thereby ensuring food security and protecting livelihoods.
The United Nations Industrial Development Organization and the Mindanao Development Authority will jointly lead the project’s development and implementation.
In addition to the Mindanao project, the DOF has indicated that a PHP796 million regional project, titled Strengthening Climate Resilience and Food Security, is in the planning stages. This project aims to enhance rice production resilience in both the Philippines and Malaysia through climate-smart technologies and advanced climate intelligence systems.
To further facilitate access to climate finance, the DOF is seeking accreditation as a National Implementing Entity of the Adaptation Fund. This accreditation would enable the Philippines to directly channel resources to the most vulnerable communities in need.
