Manila: Malaca±ang on Wednesday welcomed the Philippines’ first-ever grant from the global Adaptation Fund, calling the USD10 million climate resilience project in Tawi-Tawi a ‘major step’ in securing the future of vulnerable communities.

According to Philippines News Agency, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro announced that the project, ‘Harnessing the water-energy-food nexus to address and adapt to climate change impacts in Tawi-Tawi,’ will support two of the country’s southernmost and most climate-affected areas – Sibutu and Sitangkai. Castro emphasized the importance of ensuring stable water access for these island municipalities. She stated that the initiative reflects the Marcos administration’s commitment to long-term climate adaptation and sustainable development.

The initiative aims to specifically support the municipalities of Sibutu and Sitangkai by ensuring safe and reliable water access amid growing climate change challenges, according to Castro. She described the project as a major step toward a more resilient future for the communities in Tawi-Tawi under the vision of a “Bagong Pilipinas.”

The project received official approval during the 44th Board Meeting of the Adaptation Fund held in Bonn, Germany, from April 8 to 11. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Department of Finance led the effort to secure the grant. The Adaptation Fund finances projects and programs that help vulnerable communities in developing countries adapt to climate change, with initiatives tailored to the country’s specific needs, views, and priorities.