The Philippines has secured its first project under the Adaptation Fund (AF), obtaining a $10 million grant to enhance the climate resilience of vulnerable communities in Tawi-Tawi. The funding was approved during the 44th AF Board Meeting held from April 8 to 11, 2025, in Bonn, Germany.
The project, “Harnessing the Water-Energy-Food Nexus to Address and Adapt to Climate Change Impacts in Tawi-Tawi,” aims to strengthen the adaptive capacity of the island municipalities of Sibutu and Sitangkai. It will focus on climate-resilient water access and sustainable livelihood development in one of the country’s most climate-vulnerable regions.
Key components of the initiative include:
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Installing resilient water supply systems integrated with renewable energy technologies;
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Building local capacity for sustainable water management.
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Enhancing community resilience and livelihoods, especially in seaweed farming;
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Promoting knowledge sharing to replicate successful practices across other regions.
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), as the country’s Designated Authority to the AF, led the development of the project in coordination with key stakeholders to address water-related climate risks in the province.
The project will be implemented by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) in partnership with the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA).
“This initiative aligns with our National Adaptation Plan, which prioritizes food and water security, sustainable resource management, and livelihood protection in the face of climate change,” said Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga. “The water-energy-food nexus approach underscores how interconnected resource management leads to more effective and sustainable climate solutions.”
She emphasized that enhancing water security also protects the livelihoods of seaweed farmers and strengthens the economic foundations of Tawi-Tawi’s coastal communities.
Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto, who represents the Philippines on the AF Board under the Non-Annex I Parties group, lauded the project’s approval as a milestone in the country’s climate finance journey.
“This is not just our first project with the Adaptation Fund—it’s a statement of our resolve that no Filipino will be left behind in our pursuit of climate resilience,” Recto said. “By prioritizing communities like Tawi-Tawi in global climate funding, we reaffirm our commitment to inclusive and sustainable development.”
