THE U.S. government established a five-year P800 million ($16 million) to promote natural resource conservation, ecosystem and community resilience in the Philippines.

Through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the grant facility will help civil society organizations implement biodiversity conservation, wildlife protection, natural resource management, and local climate actions in the Philippines, the US Embassy in Manila said.

The environmental conservation fund will be launched through the new Investing in Sustainability and Partnerships for Inclusive Growth and Regenerative Ecosystems (INSPIRE) project.

The project will support civil society organizations in advocating for, and participating in, good natural resource governance.

In addition, it will support media organizations covering key natural resource governance issues, and it will help local communities better manage natural resources and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

“As advocates for better governance and partners of the public sector, civil society plays an important role in protecting the environment and addressing climate change,” USAID Philippines Acting Mission Director Sean Callahan said.

“Through the INSPIRE project, USAID is pleased to support the Philippines’ efforts to conserve the country’s rich biodiversity and mitigate the impacts of climate change while making sure that the environment continues to benefit many Filipinos whose incomes depend upon these natural resources.”

USAID will work closely with the Philippine government and other relevant stakeholders to implement the INSPIRE project.

The United States government has been a key development champion in the Philippines for six decades, working with individuals, communities, and the government to improve everyday lives.

Since 2008, USAID has provided more than $157 million to support the Philippine government in conserving the country’s biodiversity and protecting its landscapes and seascapes.

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Cristina Lee-Pisco