Japan grants $5 million to boost BARMM climate resilience

The Japanese government has allocated $5 million to enhance the climate-resiliency of livelihoods in vulnerable communities within the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

In a statement on Friday, the Embassy of Japan in Manila announced that Ambassador Endo Kazuya signed and exchanged notes with World Food Programme (WFP) Representative & Country Director in the Philippines Regis Chapman for The Project for Enhancing Climate-Resilient Livelihoods in Vulnerable Communities in Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

“Extreme weather events driven by climate change pose a significant and growing threat to peace and stability in BARMM,” Kazuya said.

“Japan has firsthand experience with natural disasters, so we understand how devastating and costly these calamities can be. We want to support our Filipino friends, particularly in BARMM, in strengthening their resilience and preparedness for these challenges,” he added.

The three-year project, led by the WFP, aims to bolster disaster management capabilities within local government units. 

Additionally, it seeks to improve farmers' livelihoods in BARMM by installing early warning systems to help them prepare for extreme weather conditions.

Beyond these initiatives, the program will also establish disaster risk management plans and maintain irrigation systems as part of climate change adaptation efforts.

Kazuya highlighted that the project would also support the transformation of Moro Islamic Liberation Front camps under the Philippine government’s Camp Transformation Program—an essential step toward achieving lasting peace and sustainable development in the region. — DVM, GMA Integrated News