The Philippines, an archipelagic country, boasts of a rich marine biodiversity that serves as an important /resource and contributor to the country’s economy. Coastal and marine habitats, however, are threatened by unsustainable human activities. If left unabated, the Philippines may face resource depletion that directly impacts the livelihoods of fisherfolks and other communities reliant on marine resources.
An ADB project, cofinanced by the Global Environment Facility, sought sustainable management and conservation of coastal resources, and increased income for coastal communities.
Interventions
The Integrated Coastal Resources Management project covered six priority marine biodiversity corridors and ecosystems in the Philippines. These are 79 local government units (LGUs) in the provinces of Cagayan, Cebu, Davao Oriental, Masbate, Romblon, Siquijor, and Zambales. These LGUs surround four corridors which are rated extremely high for marine biodiversity.
The project aimed to improve coastal resource management regulations through harmonious interagency coordination and institutionalize an integrated coastal resource management (ICRM) system in all participating LGUs.
To foster ownership of outcomes, the LGUs’ capacities in resource management were enhanced. The project also enhanced women’s participation in coastal resource management and provided alternative livelihood options, as well as improved access to safe water, sanitation, and community services to coastal communities.
Results
Policy and institutional strengthening and development. An institutional framework for national and local government coordination on ICRM was developed. Policy and institutional strengthening outputs exceeded targets, with participating LGUs surpassing the 80% target in the eco-governance index.
Integrated coastal resources management and biodiversity conservation. All 79 participating LGUs developed and integrated ICRM in their municipal development plans.
Social and environmental services and facilities. The project constructed social and environmental facilities in 13 LGUs, benefiting 59,326 households in 134 barangays. This included the Carmen River flood control structure in Cebu, and the Boston water supply system and Cateel drainage system in Davao Oriental.
1 Oct 2019