MANILA – The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) has officially recognized the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) projects LAWA and BINHI as exemplary global initiatives in combating the adverse effects of climate change and enhancing climate resilience.:The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) has officially recognized the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) projects LAWA and BINHI as exemplary global initiatives in combating the adverse effects of climate change and enhancing climate resilience.
According to Philippines News Agency, the commendation was highlighted in a LinkedIn post by UN Assistant Secretary-General Reena Ghelani, who praised the DSWD’s innovative approach to addressing critical issues stemming from the climate crisis and El Niño phenomena. The projects, known as Project LAWA (Local Adaptation to Water Access) and BINHI (Breaking Insufficiency through Nutritious Harvest for the Impoverished), have been instrum
ental in fostering sustainable solutions and community empowerment in vulnerable regions.
Ghelani’s post detailed the achievements of Project LAWA, which was developed as a sustainable response to the water scarcity challenges exacerbated by the El Niño-induced drought. The project not only provided temporary employment but also empowered communities to construct small farm reservoirs, ensuring sustained water access for agricultural irrigation.
Furthermore, Project BINHI was lauded for its role in utilizing water irrigation systems to establish vegetable gardens and plant climate-resilient crops, significantly bolstering food security and nutritional intake among impoverished communities. The Cash-for-Work component of the program was also highlighted by Ghelani as a critical mechanism for enhancing community involvement and addressing nutritional deficiencies.
Under the leadership of Secretary Rex Gatchalian, the DSWD has committed to continuing the implementation of these projects, aiming to equip more
communities with the tools necessary for climate and disaster resilience. DSWD spokesperson Irene Dumlao expressed gratitude for the UN’s recognition, emphasizing the global validation of their localized efforts to combat climate challenges.
The projects not only maintain agricultural productivity during arid periods but also manage excess water during heavy rainfall, characteristic of La Niña events, thus addressing both extremes of climate variability. The recognition by the UNDRR underscores the DSWD’s role in pioneering effective and sustainable responses to global climate issues.