THE United States government though the US Agency for International Development yesterday awarded $4.3 million, or P240 million, in grants to help civil society organizations address the unique climate challenges faced by local communities across the Philippines.
US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson made the announcement as she joined Department of Environment and Natural Resources Undersecretary Juan Miguel Cuna and Gerry Roxas Foundation executive director Glen de Castro saying the 11 grants will support efforts to conserve biodiversity, protect wildlife, and implement natural climate solutions.
The grants were provided under USAID’s Investing in Sustainability and Partnership for Inclusive Growth and Growth and Regenerative Ecosystems (INSPIRE) Project.
The recipient organizations according to the US Embassy in Manila are BaiAni Foundation, CBCP Caritas Filipinas Foundation, Coastal Conservation and Education Foundation, Diliman Science Research Foundation, Impl. Project Philippines, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, Mabuwaya Foundation, Surigao Economic Development and Microfinance Foundation, Tanggol Kalikasan, University of Santo Tomas Research and Endowment Foundation, and Xavier Agricultural Extension Services Foundation.
The Mabuwaya Foundation according to the embassy plans to use their grant to protect the intact forests of the Sierra Madre mountain range in Cagayan by addressing illegal logging and conversion of forest lands for agricultural use.
Xavier Agricultural Extension Service Foundation’s grant on the other hand will strengthen community-based initiatives to restore and protect the mangrove forests and other marine ecosystems in Zamboanga Sibugay.
Carlson said the award is a testament to the critical role of civil society organizations in translating conservation agreements into actions.
“Through these grants, we are advancing sustainable local solutions that will help communities address the unique climate challenges they face. These grants contribute to our shared goal of a more resilient future where both people and nature thrive,” the envoy said.
For his part, Cuna said the DENR is one with USAID and INSPIRE in the quest for an increased and a more meaningful participation and engagement of all sectors to preserve and conserve the environment.
“DENR is grateful for the continued partnership and we look forward to deepening our engagement as we work toward creating a more equitable world for all,” Cuna added.
USAID has partnered with the Philippine government and local organizations to conserve the country’s rich biodiversity and mitigate the impacts of climate change for six decades already.
Since 2021, USAID has provided more than $11.7 million, or P620 million to civil society organizations to amplify their efforts in achieving environmental sustainability and uplifting the lives of Filipino communities.
