PHL Government and FAO Partner to Strengthen Agriculture vs Climate Change

The Department of Agriculture (DA), the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST-PAGASA), the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr), and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) signed an Operational Partners Agreement (OPA) for the Green Climate Fund (GCF)-funded “Adapting Philippine Agriculture to Climate Change” (APA) Project.

DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel, Jr. led the signing ceremony along with DOST-PAGASA Administrator Dr. Nathaniel Servando, Deputy Treasurer of the Philippines (DTOP) Eduardo Anthony Mariño III, representing National Treasurer Sharon Almanza, and FAO Representative in the Philippines Dr. Lionel Dabbadie. Through this collaboration, the Philippine government and FAO will empower the rural communities, strengthen early warning systems, and promote the adoption of climate-resilient technologies.

DA Secretary Tiu Laurel emphasized the critical importance of the APA project, stating, “Climate change poses a significant threat to our agriculture sector, which is a key pillar of our economy. This project is a crucial step in protecting the livelihoods of our farmers and fisherfolk.” He highlighted the DA’s commitment to implementing the project effectively and ensuring that its benefits reach those who need it most.

As pointed out by Dr. Dabbadie, the Philippines is a global leader in climate risk, making it imperative to prioritize agricultural adaptation. The APA project will benefit 250,000 farmers and indirectly support millions more by introducing climate-resilient agriculture (CRA) technologies, strengthening support networks, and promoting sustainable farming practices.

DTOP Mariño underscored the BTr’s commitment to ensuring the smooth and efficient flow of financial resources for the project, stressing that “we are committed to working side by side with all of you in this endeavor.” He also expressed gratitude to the DA, DOST-PAGASA, Department of Finance (DOF), and FAO for their roles in bringing the APA project to fruition.

Under the agreement, the BTr will ensure the efficient and transparent flow of financial resources for the APA project, in compliance with National Budget Circular No. 581, also known as the “Clarificatory Guidelines and Procedures Applicable to Foreign-Assisted Projects Following the Cash Budgeting System and Treasury Single Account Framework.” The DA and DOST-PAGASA will act as lead implementing agencies, with co-financing contributions.

The APA project will be implemented in nine (9) provinces across five (5) regions identified as the most vulnerable climate change hotspots: Regions II, V, X, XII, and the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR).