U.S., PHL sign new PHP7.25-billion agreement to protect the environment

The U.S. government, through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and the Philippine National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) signed a new, five-year bilateral assistance agreement valued at more than PHP7.25-billion ($150-million) to protect the Philippine environment.

Through this agreement, the United States and the Philippines deepen their commitment to protect the environment by promoting the sustainable use of natural resources, expanding access to renewable energy, and reducing risks from natural disasters.

In partnership with national, provincial, and local governments, USAID will implement projects to increase access to clean energy and water; improve natural resource management; and protect the Philippines’ landscapes, wildlife, and fisheries.  These projects support the Philippines’ and United States’ shared goal of preserving the Philippines’ world-renowned natural treasures while improving the lives of Filipinos and ensuring sustainable jobs.

“This new agreement with NEDA, which includes partnerships with the Departments of Natural Resources, Energy, and Agriculture—Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, marks a new era in our longstanding support to the Philippines.  We will work together to address many environmental challenges.  Together, we will strengthen government and community efforts in responding to environmental challenges to achieve our shared vision for safer and more resilient Filipino communities.  Our assistance will help protect the forests, fisheries, and water and energy resources for millions of Filipinos, increase livelihoods, and promote nature as an engine of sustainable growth,” said USAID Philippines Mission Director Lawrence Hardy II.

This bilateral agreement is one of four new, five-year USAID-Government of Philippines Development Assistance Agreements launching in 2020 and 2021, with an anticipated total value of PHP32.7-billion ($675-million) over the next five years.

The other new agreements include:

• Department of Health:  To improve underserved Filipinos’ well-being by strengthening health systems and improving the quality of health services, especially in treating tuberculosis and providing access to family planning services and community-based drug dependence treatment;
• Department of Finance:  To accelerate inclusive, market-driven economic growth by advancing policies that increase investment and trade, promoting private-sector led innovation, and increasing information and communications technology access for the digital economy;
• Department of Education:  To improve early grade reading; expand science and mathematics curricula; increase out-of-school youth access to education, professional training, and technical skills development that will lead to new job opportunities; and strengthen education governance.

Over the past 20 years, USAID has provided over PHP216-billion ($4.5-billion) to advance the country’s development goals.