PCP4NbS Special Fund for Nature-based Solutions: Site-based Grants for Calamianes Group of Islands (English)

Deadline of Submission: August 14, 2025

I. Background and Objectives

The Philippines is among the most vulnerable countries in the world to climate change. Situated along the typhoon belt and ring of fire in the Pacific Ocean, the country is prone to natural hazards such as flooding, cyclones, droughts, and landslides. To withstand and thrive in the face of the climate crisis, the Philippines must continue to strengthen its climate resilience through a comprehensive approach involving mitigation of impacts and adaptation strategies.

Climate change adaptation is fundamental to transform Filipinos’ way of life and forge a path towards building resilience and achieving sustainable development. Adaptation efforts must be based on improving collective understanding of climate impacts, capacity building for adaptation measures, reinforcing governmental support through policies and resources, and ensuring inclusivity in decision-making, particularly by engaging women and local communities.

In the context of such developmental challenges in a biodiversity-rich country, Forest Foundation Philippines (“Forest Foundation” or “the Foundation”), funded by the Government of Canada, is implementing the Philippines-Canada Partnership on Nature-based Solutions (NbS) for Climate Adaptation (PCP4NbS) (“the “Program”). Running from 2024-2028 and amounting to CA $8 Million, the Program will contribute to strengthening climate resilience of communities, particularly rural and indigenous women, while ensuring co-benefits from, and for, natural resources and healthy ecosystems. Grounded in the guiding principles of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Global Standard for Nature-based Solutions, the initiative will specifically target the three wins of biodiversity conservation, climate adaptation, and ensuring gender equality in natural-resource management (NRM).

The Calamianes Group of Islands in Palawan, comprising the municipalities of Busuanga, Coron, Culion, and Linapacan, encompasses biodiversity-rich lowland forests and marine ecosystems, providing for its farming and fishing communities, including the Tagbanua indigenous cultural community. Climate change impacts, in addition to unsustainable human activities, pose a threat to the biodiversity and human communities in the islands. Efforts such as women-led mangrove rehabilitation and establishment of marine areas managed by indigenous peoples reduce the impacts of climate change and help in biodiversity and societal development. 

The Program will focus on four watersheds, namely, the 1) Mabentangen (Deguiboy-Dipulao) River Watershed, 2) Sinibayan (Ditapic) River Watershed, 3) Dita (Luac) River Watershed, and 4) Sitio Pula River Watershed. The islands where the watersheds are located are key biodiversity areas (KBAs), and are part of the Palawan Mangrove Swamp Forest Reserve Protected Area (PA) and the Palawan Game Refuge and Bird Sanctuary PA. The four watersheds have a total area of around 23,000 ha, 6,763 of which are KBAs (29.39%) and are almost 100% PA.

The Program will ensure that nature-based solutions are implemented in the target sites, and generate results that are aligned with its Logic Model (Figure 1).

Figure 1. Logic Model of PCP4NbS

II. Special Fund for NbS

To support participatory development, implementation, and enhancement of NbS projects for climate change adaptation, a Special Fund was established under the program. The Special Fund aims to:

• Increase capacities of women and communities in developing/designing and implementing NbS with biodiversity co-benefits;
• Ensure women and community participation in protecting, enhancing, and restoring ecosystems and biodiversity; and
• Protect and enhance biodiversity that provides multiple ecosystem goods and services.

The design and implementation of projects under the Special Fund will be aligned with the Foundation’s Results Framework 2023-2027, while expanding the sustainable management of forests to coastal and marine ecosystems for water, land, and biodiversity, and fostering nature-based climate action. It will support projects that can establish participatory and coordinated strategies on a large scale, enabling the Program to meet a range of local needs, while contributing to national commitments and targets.

The Special Fund will support three types of grants over the Program lifetime: (1) site-based grants to implement NbS; (2) thematic grants to demonstrate NbS; and (3) grants to sustain public support for NbS. This Request for Proposals pertains to applications for Site-based Grants in the Calamianes Group of Islands in Palawan.

III. Site-based Grants: Geographic Scope and Priority Issues

This is a Request for Proposals for NbS in Calamianes Group of Islands in Palawan, with efforts to be focused on the Mabentangen (Deguiboy-Dipulao) River Watershed, Sinibayan (Ditapic) River Watershed, Dita (Luac) River Watershed, and Sitio Pula River Watershed (click the links to access maps). These target sites encompass the following barangays:

River Watersheds in Calamianes Group of Islands, Palawan
Mabentangen (Deguiboy-Dipulao) River Watershed	Barangay I (Pob.)  Barangay IV (Pob.)  Barangay V (Pob.)  Barangay VI (Pob.) Borac  Decalachao  Guadalupe  San Nicolas Tagumpay
Sinibayan (Ditapic) River Watershed	Buluang  Cheey  New Busuanga (Pob.)  Quezon  San Rafael
Dita (Luac) River Watershed	Baldat  Luac  Malaking Patag  Osmeña
Sitio Pula River Watershed	Maroyogroyog  San Miguel (Pob.)  San Nicolas

To ensure the effectiveness and responsiveness of the Program in contributing to climate, biodiversity, and gender-equality outcomes through appropriate and gender-responsive NbS, a Vulnerability and Risk Assessment (VRA), Gender-Based Analysis-Plus (GBA Plus), and Marine Biodiversity Assessment (MBA) have been conducted in the target sites. The full reports are available upon request.

The results of the assessments, summarized below, provide a basis for identifying priority issues that need to be addressed and types of interventions that may be supported.

Highlights of Vulnerability and Risk Assessment

Mabentangen (Deguiboy-Dipulao) River Watershed 

• Low-lying areas of the Mabentangen (Deguiboy-Dipulao) River Watershed  are highly susceptible to flood hazards. The northwestern part of the watershed includes the valleys in Barangays San Nicolas and Guadalupe. Based on the simulation, rainwater flowing down from the mountains collects in these valleys, increasing the risk of flooding in both barangays. The southern part includes the Dipulao sub-catchment area, which overlaps with Barangays V and VI. This area is mostly mountainous, so flooding usually happens only near the riverbanks. However, there is still a high risk of flooding along the floodplain, especially in Barangay VI, where many homes and businesses are located.

• Mountainous regions of the watershed can be potentially affected by rain-induced landslides. Model results show that these regions are steep and high, making them highly susceptible to landslides. Barangays Decalachao, San Nicolas, western region of Guadalupe, and the poblacion area of Coron is found to be potentially affected by landslides.

• Low-lying coastal zones of the watershed could face heightened storm surge hazard levels. Because the land in the area has mostly gentle slopes, seawater can easily flow inland during storm surges. This increases the risk of storm surge flooding in coastal parts of Brgys. Guadalupe, VI, and V, especially those facing Malbato Bay. Modeling results also show that rising sea levels could make storm surges even worse. As a result, this will cause coastal retreat and will move the coastline closer to populated communities. This shift means storm surges could reach farther inland, putting more land—and more people—at risk in the future. In addition, the analysis shows that some low-lying coastal areas in the watershed may be permanently submerged due to rising sea levels.

• The entire Mabentangen (Deguiboy-Dipulao) River Watershed could face detrimental impacts of severe wind events. All exposure units can be severely affected by severe winds.

Sinibayan (Ditapic) River Watershed

• The headwater of Sinibayan (Ditapic) River Watershed features rolling hills and  relatively narrow river channels. When it rains, water moves along these channels fast and slightly overflows on its river banks, making those areas near the river highly susceptible to the impacts of flooding. This type of flooding is observed in Brgys. New Busuanga, San Rafael, and Cheey. On the other hand, the flooding situation in Brgys. Quezon and Buluang in Busuanga differs. These areas lie on the floodplain, which has wider river channels, lower land elevation, and gentler slopes. Because of these features, Brgy. Quezon acts like a catch basin, collecting water flowing down from the upper parts of the watershed. This increases the risk of flooding, especially in places close to the river and in low-lying areas.

• Areas that can be potentially affected by rain-induced landslides are identified along the southern region of the watershed, covering the mountainous regions of Brgys. San Rafael and Cheey. Areas susceptible to landslides form along mountainous terrains, which are steep and high in elevation. Portions of Brgy Buluang on the western edge of the watershed are also identified as landslide-prone areas.

• Regions that can be potentially affected by storm surge are very minimal in Sinibayan (Ditapic) River Watershed. Threats associated with such a hazard only exist on the low-lying coastal floodplains of Brgys. Quezon and Buluang bordering Calauit Island. Moreover, the same barangays are also facing threats of  sea level rise, primarily due to their low elevation and gentle slope.

• The entire watershed could face detrimental impacts of severe wind events. All exposure units can be severely affected by severe winds.

Dita (Luac) River Watershed

• The Dita (Luac) River Watershed has two main river channels that flow toward the low-lying areas of Barangays Luac and Baldat, which serve as its floodplain. These two barangays are considered flood-prone because they receive most of the water coming from the upper parts of the watershed and are situated at low elevations. Meanwhile, the valley areas in Brgy. Malaking Patag are also at risk of flooding due to their low elevation. This eastern part of the watershed, located in Brgy. Patag, collects rainwater from the surrounding mountains before it flows down to the floodplains. This makes the area more prone to flooding, especially during heavy rainfall.

• Areas that can be potentially affected by landslides are sparsely-distributed across the watershed. All barangays inside the watershed, which include Brgys. Luac, Baldat, Malaking Patag, and Osmeña can be potentially affected by landslides. More particularly, potential occurrence of landslides is critical along steep and mountainous regions of the watershed.

• Areas that can be potentially affected by storm surge are very limited, with only the large river channel opening facing the bay can be affected by such a hazard. Moreover, impacts of sea level rise are found to be minimal as well. Only channel opening and river channel along the coastal floodplain of Brgys. Baldat and Luac are prone to such occurrences.

• The entire watershed could face detrimental impacts of severe wind events. All exposure units can be severely affected by severe winds.

Sitio Pula River Watershed

• The coastal floodplains of Sitio Pula River Watershed are highly susceptible to flood hazard. The headwaters of Sitio Pula River Watershed are predominantly mountainous, and at the same time, channels are narrow. As a result, rainfall normally flows on these channels fast and drains a significant amount towards the low-lying coastal floodplains. Brgy. San Miguel is the most flood-affected area in the watershed because it lies at the end of two river outfalls. Barangay San Nicolas, located in the southwestern part of the watershed, experiences similar flooding conditions. While the mountainous parts of Brgy. San Nicolas limit flooding in higher areas, the coastal floodplain faces the worst of it. This is mainly because of its low elevation, gentle slopes, and its natural role as a catch basin for water coming from the uplands.

• Threats associated with rain-induced landslides occur along the headwaters of the watershed, notably overlaying with the mountainous regions of Brgys. San Miguel, Maroyogroyog, and San Nicolas. Areas susceptible to landslides form along mountainous terrains, which are identified as steep and high in elevation.

• The southeastern coastal floodplain of the watershed, situated in Brgy. San Miguel exhibits a high hazard level to storm surge. This part of the watershed is described with low elevation and gentle slopes, which makes it highly susceptible to inland propagation of sea water during a storm surge. Similarly, this low-lying region of the watershed is facing threats of the anticipated sea level rise in the future as well.

• The entire Sitio Pula River Watershed could face detrimental impacts of severe wind events. All exposure units can be severely affected by severe winds.

Highlights of the Upland Biodiversity Assessment

Mabentangen (Deguiboy-Dipulao) River Watershed 

In the Mabentangen (Deguiboy-Dipulao) River Watershed , the majority of recorded plant species were trees, with fewer observed herbs and shrubs. A total of 165 morpho-species, representing 126 genera and 65 families, were identified along the trails in Coron, Palawan. Based on the Co’s Digital Flora of the Philippines, of the 165 recorded species 24 (14.55%) are classified as endemic (species  found only in the Philippines), 20 (12.12%) are exotic species ( species introduced by humans), and 72 (43.64%) native in the country. Among the 165 species recorded, a total of 21 species were found to be threatened, of which one is critically endangered (CR), the species of Diospyros transita (Bakh.) Kosterm., four are endangered (EN), 10 are vulnerable (VU), and 6 other threatened species (OTS). Lastly, the biodiversity of the Mabentangen (Deguiboy-Dipulao) River Watershed  in Coron, Palawan is highly vulnerable to various human and ecological pressures. 

Key threats include the proliferation of exotic and invasive species, the prevalence of kaingin (slash-and-burn) farming practices, the dominance of early-secondary growth forests, and allowing the entry of tourists in critical areas in the watershed.

Sinibayan (Ditapic) River Watershed

In the Sinibayan (Ditapic) River Watershed, the majority of recorded plant species were trees, with fewer observed herbs and shrubs.. A total of 101 morpho-species, representing 85 genera and 48 families, were identified along the trails in Busuanga, Palawan. Based on the Co’s Digital Flora of the Philippines, of the 101 recorded species, 9 (8.91%) are endemic, 8 (7.92%) are exotic, and 59 (58.42%) native in the country. Among the 101 species recorded, a total of 10 species were found to be threatened, of which eight (8) are vulnerable (VU) including; Malakatmon (Dillenia luzoniensis (Vidal) Martelli and Balakat gubat (Balakata luzonica (S. Vidal) Esser. 2 are categorized as OTS. Lastly, the biodiversity of the Sinibayan (Ditapic) River Watershed in Busuanga, Palawan is highly vulnerable to various human and ecological pressures. 

Key threats include the proliferation of exotic and invasive species, the prevalence of kaingin (slash-and-burn) farming practices, the dominance of early-secondary growth forests, timber poaching and the presence of informal settlers.

Dita (Luac) River Watershed

In the Dita (Luac) River Watershed, the majority of recorded plant species were trees, with fewer herbs and shrubs observed. A total of 77 morpho-species, representing 65 genera and 48 families, were identified along the trails in Culion, Palawan. Based on Co’s Digital Flora of the Philippines, of the 77 recorded species 12 (15.58%) are classified as endemic, 3 (3.90%) are exotic, and 56 (72.73%) native in the country. Among the 77 species recorded, a total of 8 species were found to be threatened, including the critically endangered Palawan endemic Diospyros transita (Bakh.) Kosterm., five (5) vulnerable species (VU), and two (2) other threatened species (OTS). Lastly, the biodiversity of the Dita (Luac) River Watershed in Culion, Palawan is highly vulnerable to various human and ecological pressures. 

Key threats include the proliferation of exotic and invasive species, the prevalence of kaingin (slash-and-burn) farming practices, poaching, quarrying, the dominance of early-secondary growth forests, and the occurrences of grassfires, as the area is dominated by grassland.

Sitio Pula River Watershed

In the Sitio Pula River Watershed, the majority of recorded plant species were trees, with fewer herbs and shrubs observed. A total of 125 morpho-species, representing 104 genera and 51 families, were identified along the trails in Linapacan, Palawan. Based on the Co’s Digital Flora of the Philippines, of the 125 recorded species 25 (20%) are classified as endemic , 15 (12%) are exotic , and 90 (72%) native in the country. Among the 125 species recorded, a total of 7 species were found to be threatened, of which 6 species were vulnerable species (VU) including; Palawan tagpo (Ardisia romanii Elmer) and Bakad-pula (Prunus rubiginosa (Elmer) Kalkman) and 1 other threatened species (OTS). Lastly, the biodiversity of the Sitio Pula River Watershed in Linapacan, Palawan is highly vulnerable to various human and ecological pressures. 

Key threats include the proliferation of exotic and invasive species, the prevalence of kaingin (slash-and-burn) farming practices, the dominance of early-secondary growth forests, and the occurrences of grassfires.

The following table further summarizes the findings of the biodiversity assessment:

Mabentangen (Deguiboy-Dipulao) River Watershed	Vulnerability
Flora Species  165 morpho-species: 24 Endemic species 72 Native species 20 Exotic species 21 Threatened species 1 critically endangered species (CR) 4 endangered species (EN) 10 vulnerable species (VU) 6 other threatened species (OTS)	Presence of significant number of exotic/introduced species Prevalence of kaingin (slash-and-burn) farming practices Dominance of early-secondary growth forest Entry of tourists in critical areas
Sinibayan (Ditapic) River Watershed
Flora Species  101 morpho-species: 9 Endemic species 59 Native species 8 Exotic species 10 Threatened species 8 vulnerable species (VU) 2 OTS	Presence of significant number of exotic/introduced species Prevalence of kaingin (slash-and-burn) farming practices Dominance of early-secondary growth forest Timber poaching Presence of informal settlers
Dita (Luac) River Watershed
Flora Species  77 morpho-species: 12 Endemic species 56 Native species 3 Exotic species 8 Threatened species 1 critically endangered species (CR) 5 vulnerable species (VU) 2 other threatened species (OTS)	Presence of significant number of exotic/introduced species Prevalence of kaingin ((slash-and-burn)  farming practices, poaching, and quarrying Dominance of early-secondary growth forest Occurrences of grassfires
Sitio Pula River Watershed
Flora Species  125 morpho-species: 25 Endemic species 90 Native species 15 Exotic species 7 Threatened species 6 vulnerable species (VU) 1 other threatened species (OTS)	Presence of significant number of exotic/introduced species Prevalence of kaingin (slash-and-burn) farming practices Dominance of early-secondary growth forest Occurrences of grassfires

See the full list of species found in the four (4) river watersheds in Calamianes Group of Islands.

Highlights of the Marine Biodiversity Assessment

(See full list of fish species in Calamianes Group of Islands)

The Marine Biodiversity Assessments were conducted in four established fish sanctuaries in Calamianes Group of Islands, Palawan. These are Decalve Marine Protected Area (Bintuan, Coron), Ocam-Ocam Marine Protected Area (New Busuanga, Busuanga), Kabul-Kabul Marine Protected Area (Malaking Patag, Culion), San Miguel Marine Protected Area (San Miguel, Linapacan). 

Decalve Marine Protected Area (Bintuan, Coron)

• The Decalve MPA had shallow reefs, with high cover of branching corals. Chalice corals, which is an uncommon coral species (Mycedium mancaoi), was observed at the survey reef outside the marine protected area. Visibility was relatively poor at about 3-4m due to the proximity of river mouths to the reefs.
• Very high densities of juvenile fish were found both inside and outside the marine protected area. Juveniles of target species such as fusiliers (“dalagang bukid”) and slipmouths (“sapsap”), were very dense. On the other hand, large individuals of predatory target species such as snappers (“maya-maya”) and groupers (“lapu-lapu”) were also quite abundant in the area. The diversity of fishes were similar inside and outside the protected area, with 60 and 61 species, respectively.

Ocam-Ocam Marine Protected Area (New Busuanga, Busuanga)

• The reefs surveyed in the Ocam-Ocam MPA were exposed reefs, periodically subjected to high wave energy. This was evident in the structure of the coral community wherein most corals were encrusting and massive types.
• Fishes at the reef sites in Busuanga were dominated by small species such as damselfishes and wrasses. However, larger individuals of target species such as surgeonfishes (“labahita”), parrotfishes (“molmol”), sweetlips and snappers were observed in deeper sections of the reef beyond the survey corridors. There were more species of fishes listed outside the protected area with 96 species, compared to only 87 species within the MPA.

Kabul-Kabul Marine Protected Area (Malaking Patag, Culion)

• The coral communities in the survey sites in Kabul-Kabul MPA were typical of inner sheltered (embayed) reefs. They were narrow, with moderately steep slopes to about 8m depth. The corals were diverse, and the reef had high physical complexity, with bommies and vertical structures that rose to 2 meters from the bottom. The presence of Dugong and marine turtles were reportedly common in the area although the team did not encounter any.
• Juvenile assemblages of various target species were observed in the reefs, including barracuda and parrotfishes. Especially notable were the presence of juveniles of the Napoleon wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus) or “mameng”, and the leopard grouper (Plectopomus leopardus) or “suno”. These are very valuable in the live fish food trade. 73 and 87 species of fishes were recorded inside and outside the MPA, respectively.

San Miguel Marine Protected Area (San Miguel, Linapacan)

• Much of the coral reefs observed both inside and outside the marine protected area bore signs of damage purportedly caused by typhoons that have passed in the area in recent years. Large sections of the reef flat and reef slope were covered by branching coral rubble. However, signs of coral recruitment and recovery were also evident.
• The fish communities in San Miguel were impressive in terms of diversity, and biomass of target species. 97 species of fish were recorded inside the MPA and 88 were listed at the outside site. Schools of fusiliers, batfishes and surgeonfishes were common inside the protected reef. While blacktip reef sharks (Carcharhinus melanopterus) were encountered in the unprotected reef surveyed. Turtles were a common sighting in the area and were reported to have caused the decline of seagrasses.

Challenges, Risks, and Recommendations

Decalve Marine Protected Area (Bintuan, Coron)

The proximity of the reefs to river mouths exposes them to high sedimentation regimes, especially since the reefs are within a relatively embayed area. The situation may be exacerbated by on-going development projects in the area (i.e. resort and coastal road construction).

Ocam-Ocam Marine Protected Area (New Busuanga, Busuanga)

Illegal fishing and encroachment into protected areas are constant challenges in the area. Stronger support from the local government will greatly enhance the effectiveness of reef conservation and management in this area. This is especially crucial with the plans to potentially extend the protected area to encompass the open-access reef surveyed.

Kabul-Kabul Marine Protected Area (Malaking Patag, Culion)

Ghost nets have been sighted in the area. A discarded fishing net was found draped across the reef and have caused damage to the corals. This was removed by the team and discarded by the local MPA guides/wardens that assisted the survey team.

San Miguel Marine Protected Area (San Miguel, Linapacan)

There is very high support of marine conservation from the local government. However, locals reported that fish are quite expensive in Linapacan, and high value species are often immediately traded to buyers from Manila or marketed directly in Coron.

Highlights of the Gender-Based Analysis-Plus

• Civil society organizations (CSO) are driving the work on environmental protection and gender mainstreaming in Calamianes Island Group. These CSOs are a combination of an island-wide network with a track record in protecting and preserving the island and coastal ecosystems of Calamianes, and smaller organizations leading community-based conservation, education and sustainable livelihood initiatives.

• Women-organizing for environmental protection is a key strategy among the CSOs.  Women play prominent roles as staff and board members, lead mangrove protection, and are active patrollers (Bantay Bakawan and Bantay Gubat). In Coron and Busuanga, women-managed organizations lead mangrove conservation and in Culion, women Bantay Gubat volunteers are leading the charge.

• Enabling mechanisms to ensure women’s participation are in place.  CSOs have good practices in installing enabling mechanisms for women’s participation. These include protocols, scheduling and systems for patrolling.  The buddy system ensures that women volunteers are never left out in the group.  “Huwag na huwag mangyayari na ang isang Bantay Gubat na babae, nag-iisa lang siya sa grupo.  Kinakailangan buddy-buddy.”  Translation: The buddy system is non-negotiable.  Having a lone female Bantay Gubat in a group must be avoided at all cost.”
  
  • To manage women’s community work, the policy of 1-day-a-week shift is observed. And as part of ensuring safety and security of volunteer patrollers, close coordination with authorities on the ground namely the police (PNP), coast guard and marines and the DENR officials is also instituted.

• Intersectionality of women organizing, mangrove management and age is maximized in Calamianes.  In addition to enabling mechanisms that support women in their community volunteer and management roles, the factors of age and shared care work have contributed to women’s leadership and participation in Calamianes.  Women leaders were able to manage their time in the mangrove nurseries because most of them already have grown children and do not require full-day care work.  They also cited that some of them are married to Bantay Dagat patrollers and are supportive of their work in the protected area.
  • In the case of the Bantay Gubat volunteers in Culion, it was noted that the women volunteers are mostly women over 50 years of age and are either mothers or grandmothers.  They have knowledge of the intricacies of their terrain and are motivated to protect the forest for the next generation, their grandchildren.  Older women in Calamianes continue to be active leaders and volunteers in NRM work.

• Furthermore, women-organizing cuts across the different LGU levels.  In Busuanga and Coron, there are women-led conservation and livelihood initiatives at the barangay level supported either by the Barangay LGU or external projects.   At the municipal level, mangrove protection across the three barangays of Concepcion, Sagrada and Bogtong was made possible by the advocacy of women LGU officials and Bantay Bakawan volunteers in the municipality of Busuanga over two decades.
  • In Calamianes Island, a group of gender and environment advocates has been organizing to become an NGO resource pool for the island group. The members are representatives of the four municipalities of Coron, Busuanga, Culion and Linapacan. A set of by-laws has been drafted to help the network to eventually be incorporated.

• Despite empowered women’s organizations, untapped champions for environmental protection such as LGBTQI+ and GAD mechanisms can be explored. The study found an organized LGBTQI+ group in Coron and noted that the LGBTQI+ community has not adopted environmental protection as a priority concern yet.  Members of the LGBTQ+ community  participate in coastal clean-up and tree-planting activities and, at the moment, continue to focus on health issues particularly mental health, sexual and reproductive health  and HIV.  They can be potential allies in promoting gender equality, environmental protection and climate adaptation.  Organized groups representing other sectors such as persons with disabilities and indigenous communities, however, were not located for the GBA+ interviews.

• Lastly, the GAD mechanisms and Environment Management Office in the LGUs of Calamianes have yet to be tapped for the integration of environmental protection and gender mainstreaming.  Busuanga LGU, for instance, is receptive to the idea.  

Among the recommendations of the assessment are the need to:

• Support the formation of the Calamianes Island Gender Network (CIGN). The CIGN has potential to serve as one of the communities of practice for gender-responsive NbS, and gender and environment issues in general. Support for convening the group could go a long way to sustain the momentum.

• Strengthen capacities of local organizations on NbS, who can benefit from a learning session in NbS and could potentially adopt the framework in their ongoing initiatives.  

• Support CRN’s initiatives to integrate the three wins of PCP4NbS.  biodiversity conservation, climate adaptation and gender equality.  These are already ongoing and are worth continuing, cognizant that CRN is a model for most CSOs in Calamianes.

• Engage LGBTQI+ members, youth and other sectors in conservation, climate adaptation and gender mainstreaming.  The presence of organized groups in the Calamianes Islands is an advantage, and can be entry-points for the proposed engagements.

• Integrate gender and environmental programs in local governance. Facilitate the inclusion of environmental programs in gender-responsive budgeting mandated for all government agencies. 

IV. Site-based Grants: Eligible Activities

Each site-based grant shall be between Php 2 Million and PhP 6 Million, with an implementation period of up to two (2) years, commencing in November 2025. 

Site-based grants under the Program shall directly support community-based and gender-responsive NbS to help reduce vulnerability and increase resilience to climate change impacts in the target sites. These NbS shall respond to the results of the VRA, GBA Plus, and MBA, as summarized above. 

The table below enumerates the key hazards and corresponding level of risk identified through the VRA, and potential NbS that may respond to these hazards. Site-based grants shall be awarded to projects that seek to implement, but are not limited to, these potential NbS. Proponents are encouraged to introduce other tested or innovative NbS, especially those supported by local experiences and expertise. 

This RFP will prioritize NbS projects focused on conserving and protecting coastal and marine ecosystems.

Summary of Risk Assessment in Mabentangen (Deguiboy-Dipulao) River Watershed

(List of Barangays per Exposure Unit)

Hazard	Community Risk	Ecosystem-Related Risk	Potential NbS
Flooding	All residential barangays are at intermediate to high risk from flood hazard. Approximately 2,120 households are at intermediate to high risk from flood hazard.	Forest areas of 8 barangays have intermediate to high risk from flood hazard. Agriculture areas of 7 barangays have intermediate to very high risk from flood hazard. All barangays with Coastal areas have high to very high risk from flood hazard.	Flood mitigation initiatives (e.g., women-led reforestation, afforestation, natural water retention ponds) Community-based forestry and agroforestry (e.g., women-managed nursery of native trees, mangroves, fruit-bearing and high-value crops, livelihood linked with agroforestry and non-timber forest products benefitting women members of community organizations, shift to flood-and salt-resistant crops)
Rain-induced Landslides	All residential barangays are at intermediate to high risk from rain-induced landslides. Approximately 506 households are at intermediate to high risk from rain-induced landslides.	All barangays with forest areas have high to very high risk from rain-induced landslides. All barangays with agriculture and coastal areas have intermediate to very high risk from rain-induced landslides.	Reforestation/ afforestation of the headwaters of the watershed (e.g., women-managed nursery of native trees, women leaders as patrollers such as Bantay Bakawan)  Pioneer and fast-growing species that can be used for reforestation and/or afforestation found in the watersheds are the; Balinghasai (Buchanania arborescens), Anabiong (Trema orientale), Binunga (Macaranga tanarius), Kariskis (Albizia lebbekoides), Narra (Pterocarpus indicus), Hauili (Ficus septica), Bangkoro (Morinda citrifolia), (Artocarpus multifidus). Talisai (Terminalia catappa), Banato (Mallotus philippensis), Banaba (Lagerstroemia speciosa), Anislag (Securinega flexuosa), Bakauan gubat (Carallia brachiata), Badyang (Alocasia portei), and Pianga (Madhuca obovatifolia). Strengthening of riverbanks that are prone to slope failure (e.g., use of vetiver grass, establishing freshwater mangrove, bamboo propagation) Species found in the watersheds that can help in strengthening riverbanks and protect soil from erosion are the Kayong (Glochidion littorale), Bitongol (Flacourtia rukam), and Ambalag (Mischocarpus pentapetalus), Anislag (Securinega flexuosa). Community-based forestry and agroforestry (e.g., women-managed nursery of native trees, mangroves, fruit-bearing and high-value crops, livelihood linked with agroforestry and non-timber forest products benefitting women members of community organizations)
Storm Surge	2 residential barangays are at intermediate risk from storm surge. Approximately 2 households are at intermediate risk from storm surge.	Forest areas of 1 barangay has intermediate risk from storm surge. Agriculture areas of 1 barangay have intermediate risk from storm surge. All barangays with coastal areas have intermediate to high risk from storm surge.	Mangrove forest protection, reforestation, and windbreaks (e.g., women-led mangrove reforestation) Species found in the watersheds that can help in windbreaks are the: Bitaog (Calophyllum inophyllum) and Pandan dagat (Pandanus tectorius). Seagrass and coral reef protection and conservation (e.g., women-led seagrass conservation, women patrollers for regularly monitoring of the status of seagrass ecosystem) Rubble consolidation strategies to provide a more stable substrate for coral recruitment and recolonization Management of Marine Protected Areas (e.g., participation  of women in marine management plan development or coastal resource management plans, women patrollers or Bantay Bakawans, Bantay Dagat)  Boundary delineation Higher visibility in terms of patrolling, installation of marker buoys, and signage Stricter policy implementation Strengthening and expansion of women-managed local conservation areas
Storm surge with sea level rise	2 residential barangays have intermediate risk from storm surge. Approximately 3 households have intermediate risk from storm surge.	Forest areas of 1 barangay have high risk from storm surge. Agriculture areas of 1 barangay have intermediate risk from storm surge. All barangays with coastal areas have high to very high risk from storm surge.	Mangrove forest protection, reforestation, and windbreaks (e.g., women-led mangrove reforestation) Sea grass and coral reef protection and conservation (e.g., women-led seagrass conservation, women patrollers for regularly monitoring of the status of seagrass ecosystem) Rubble consolidation strategies to provide a more stable substrate for coral recruitment and recolonization Management of Marine Protected Areas Boundary delineation Higher visibility in terms of patrolling, installation of marker buoys, and signageStricter policy implementation Strengthening and expansion of women-managed local conservation areas
Severe Winds	All residential areas barangays are at high to very high risk from severe winds. All households are at high to very high risk from severe winds.	All barangays with forest, agriculture, and coastal areas have high to very high risk from severe winds.	Mangrove forest protection, reforestation, and windbreaks (e.g., women-led mangrove reforestation)Species found in the watersheds that can help in windbreaks are the: Bitaog (Calophyllum inophyllum) and Pandan dagat (Pandanus tectorius).

*Baseline (5 yr, 25 yr, 100 yr RRP), RCP 4.5 2039 (5 yr, 25 yr, 100 yr RRP), RCP 4.5 2065 (5 yr, 25 yr, 100 yr RRP), RCP 4.5 2099 (5 yr, 25 yr, 100 yr RRP) RCP 8.5 2039 (5 yr, 25 yr, 100 yr RRP), RCP 8.5 2065 (5 yr, 25 yr, 100 yr RRP), RCP 8.5 2099 (5 yr, 25 yr, 100 yr RRP)

Summary of Risk Assessment in Sinibayan (Ditapic) River Watershed

(List of Barangays per Exposure Unit)

Hazard	Community Risk	Ecosystem-Related Risk	Potential NbS
Flooding	3 residential barangays are at intermediate to very high risk from flood hazard. Approximately 392 households are at intermediate to very high risk from flood hazard.	All barangays with forest areas have intermediate to very high risk from flood hazard. Agriculture areas of 4 barangays have intermediate to high risk from flood hazard. All barangays with coastal areas have high risk from flood hazard.	Flood mitigation initiatives (e.g., women-led reforestation, afforestation, natural water retention ponds) Community-based forestry and agroforestry (e.g., women-managed nursery of native trees, mangroves, fruit-bearing and high-value crops, livelihood linked with agroforestry and non-timber forest products benefitting women members of community organizations, shift to flood-and salt-resistant crops)
Rain-induced Landslides	2 residential barangays have intermediate risk from rain-induced landslides. Approximately 39 households are at intermediate from rain-induced landslides.	All barangays with forest areas have high to very high risk from rain-induced landslides. All barangays with agriculture areas have intermediate to high risk from rain-induced landslides. Coastal areas of 1 barangay have intermediate risk from rain-induced landslides.	Reforestation/ afforestation of the headwaters of the watershed (e.g., women-managed nursery of native trees, women leaders as patrollers such as Bantay Bakawan)  Pioneer and fast-growing species that can be used for reforestation and/or afforestation found in the watersheds are the; Balinghasai (Buchanania arborescens), Anabiong (Trema orientale), Binunga (Macaranga tanarius), Kariskis (Albizia lebbekoides), Narra (Pterocarpus indicus), Hauili (Ficus septica), Bangkoro (Morinda citrifolia), (Artocarpus multifidus). Talisai (Terminalia catappa), Banato (Mallotus philippensis), Banaba (Lagerstroemia speciosa), Anislag (Securinega flexuosa), Bakauan gubat (Carallia brachiata), Badyang (Alocasia portei), and Pianga (Madhuca obovatifolia). Strengthening of riverbanks that are prone to slope failure (e.g., use of vetiver grass, establishing freshwater mangrove, bamboo propagation) Species found in the watersheds that can help in strengthening riverbanks and protect soil from erosion are the Kayong (Glochidion littorale), Bitongol (Flacourtia rukam), and Ambalag (Mischocarpus pentapetalus), Anislag (Securinega flexuosa). Community-based forestry and agroforestry (e.g., women-managed nursery of native trees, mangroves, fruit-bearing and high-value crops, livelihood linked with agroforestry and non-timber forest products benefitting women members of community organizations)
Storm Surge	All residential barangays and households have no risk from storm surge.	All barangays with forest and agriculture areas have no risk from storm surge. All barangays with coastal areas have low to intermediate risk from storm surge.	Mangrove forest protection, reforestation, and windbreaks (e.g., women-led mangrove reforestation) Species found in the watersheds that can help in windbreaks are the: Bitaog (Calophyllum inophyllum) and Pandan dagat (Pandanus tectorius). Seagrass and coral reef protection and conservation (e.g., women-led seagrass conservation, women patrollers for regularly monitoring of the status of seagrass ecosystem) Rubble consolidation strategies to provide a more stable substrate for coral recruitment and recolonization Management of Marine Protected Areas (e.g., participation of women in marine management plan development or coastal resource management plans, women patrollers or Bantay Bakawans, Bantay Dagat)  Boundary delineation Higher visibility in terms of patrolling, installation of marker buoys, and signage Stricter policy implementation Strengthening and expansion of women-managed local conservation areas
Storm surge with sea level rise	All residential barangays and households have no risk from storm surge.	All barangays with forest and agriculture areas have no risk from storm surge. All barangays with coastal areas have intermediate to high risk from storm surge.	Mangrove forest protection, reforestation, and windbreaks (e.g., women-led mangrove reforestation) Sea grass and coral reef protection and conservation (e.g., women-led seagrass conservation, women patrollers for regularly monitoring of the status of seagrass ecosystem) Rubble consolidation strategies to provide a more stable substrate for coral recruitment and recolonization Management of Marine Protected Areas Boundary delineation Higher visibility in terms of patrolling, installation of marker buoys, and signage Stricter policy implementation Strengthening and expansion of women-managed local conservation areas
Severe Winds	All residential areas barangays are at high to very high risk from severe winds. All households are at high to very high risk from severe winds.	All barangays with forest, agriculture, and coastal areas have high risk from severe winds.	Mangrove forest protection, reforestation, and windbreaks (e.g., women-led mangrove reforestation) Species found in the watersheds that can help in windbreaks are the: Bitaog (Calophyllum inophyllum) and Pandan dagat (Pandanus tectorius).

*Baseline (5 yr, 25 yr, 100 yr RRP), RCP 4.5 2039 (5 yr, 25 yr, 100 yr RRP), RCP 4.5 2065 (5 yr, 25 yr, 100 yr RRP), RCP 4.5 2099 (5 yr, 25 yr, 100 yr RRP) RCP 8.5 2039 (5 yr, 25 yr, 100 yr RRP), RCP 8.5 2065 (5 yr, 25 yr, 100 yr RRP), RCP 8.5 2099 (5 yr, 25 yr, 100 yr RRP)

Summary of Risk Assessment in Dita (Luac) River Watershed 

(List of Barangays per Exposure Unit)

Hazard	Community Risk	Ecosystem-Related Risk	Potential NbS
Flooding	All residential barangays are at intermediate to very high risk from flood hazard.Approximately 397 households are at intermediate to very high risk from flood hazard.	All barangays with forest areas have intermediate to very high risk from flood hazard. Agriculture areas of 3 barangays have intermediate to high risk from flood hazard. All barangays with coastal areas have high to very high risk from flood hazard.	Flood mitigation initiatives (e.g., women-led reforestation, afforestation, natural water retention ponds) Community-based forestry and agroforestry (e.g., women-managed nursery of native trees, mangroves, fruit-bearing and high-value crops, livelihood linked with agroforestry and non-timber forest products benefitting women members of community organizations, shift to flood- and salt-resistant crops)
Rain-induced Landslides	All residential barangays are at high to very high risk from rain-induced landslides.Approximately 453 households are at high to very high risk from rain-induced landslides.	All barangays with forest, agriculture, and coastal areas have high to very high risk from rain-induced landslides.	Reforestation/ afforestation of the headwaters of the watershed (e.g., women-managed nursery of native trees, women leaders as patrollers such as Bantay Bakawan)  Pioneer and fast-growing species that can be used for reforestation and/or afforestation found in the watersheds are the; Balinghasai (Buchanania arborescens), Anabiong (Trema orientale), Binunga (Macaranga tanarius), Kariskis (Albizia lebbekoides), Narra (Pterocarpus indicus), Hauili (Ficus septica), Bangkoro (Morinda citrifolia), (Artocarpus multifidus). Talisai (Terminalia catappa), Banato (Mallotus philippensis), Banaba (Lagerstroemia speciosa), Anislag (Securinega flexuosa), Bakauan gubat (Carallia brachiata), Badyang (Alocasia portei), and Pianga (Madhuca obovatifolia). Strengthening of riverbanks that are prone to slope failure (e.g., use of vetiver grass, establishing freshwater mangrove, bamboo propagation) Species found in the watersheds that can help in strengthening riverbanks and protect soil from erosion are the Kayong (Glochidion littorale), Bitongol (Flacourtia rukam), and Ambalag (Mischocarpus pentapetalus), Anislag (Securinega flexuosa). Community-based forestry and agroforestry (e.g., women-managed nursery of native trees, mangroves, fruit-bearing and high-value crops, livelihood linked with agroforestry and non-timber forest products benefitting women members of community organizations)
Storm Surge	All residential barangays and households have no risk from storm surge.	Forest areas of 1 barangay have no to high risk from storm surge. Agriculture areas of 1 barangay have no to intermediate risk from storm surge. Coastal areas of 1 barangay have intermediate risk from storm surge.	Mangrove forest protection, reforestation, and windbreaks (e.g., women-led mangrove reforestation)Species found in the watersheds that can help in windbreaks are the: Bitaog (Calophyllum inophyllum) and Pandan dagat (Pandanus tectorius). Seagrass and coral reef protection and conservation (e.g., women-led seagrass conservation, women patrollers for regularly monitoring of the status of seagrass ecosystem) Rubble consolidation strategies to provide a more stable substrate for coral recruitment and recolonization Management of Marine Protected Areas (e.g., participation  of women in marine management plan development or coastal resource management plans, women patrollers or Bantay Bakawans, Bantay Dagat) Boundary delineationHigher visibility in terms of patrolling, installation of marker buoys, and signageStricter policy implementation Strengthening and expansion of women-managed local conservation areas
Storm surge with sea level rise	1 residential barangay has high risk from storm surge. Approximately 3 households are at intermediate to high risk from storm surge.	Forest areas of 2 barangay have high risk from storm surge. Agriculture areas of 1 barangays have intermediate risk from storm surge. All barangays with coastal areas have intermediate to very high risk from storm surge.	Mangrove forest protection, reforestation, and windbreaks (e.g., women-led mangrove reforestation) Floating agriculture Sea grass and coral reef protection and conservation (e.g., women-led seagrass conservation, women patrollers for regularly monitoring of the status of seagrass ecosystem) Rubble consolidation strategies to provide a more stable substrate for coral recruitment and recolonization Management of Marine Protected Areas Boundary delineation Higher visibility in terms of patrolling, installation of marker buoys, and signage Stricter policy implementation Strengthening and expansion of women-managed local conservation areas
Severe Winds	All residential areas barangays are at high to very high risk from severe winds. All households are at high to very high risk from severe winds.	All barangays with forest, agriculture, and coastal areas have high risk from severe winds.	Mangrove forest protection, reforestation, and windbreaks (e.g., women-led mangrove reforestation) Species found in the watersheds that can help in windbreaks are the: Bitaog (Calophyllum inophyllum) and Pandan dagat (Pandanus tectorius).

*Baseline (5 yr, 25 yr, 100 yr RRP), RCP 4.5 2039 (5 yr, 25 yr, 100 yr RRP), RCP 4.5 2065 (5 yr, 25 yr, 100 yr RRP), RCP 4.5 2099 (5 yr, 25 yr, 100 yr RRP) RCP 8.5 2039 (5 yr, 25 yr, 100 yr RRP), RCP 8.5 2065 (5 yr, 25 yr, 100 yr RRP), RCP 8.5 2099 (5 yr, 25 yr, 100 yr RRP)

Summary of Risk Assessment in Sitio Pula River Watershed

(List of Barangays per Exposure Unit)

Hazard	Community Risk	Ecosystem-Related Risk	Potential NbS
Flooding	All residential barangays have high risk from flood hazard. Approximately 525 households are at high risk from flood hazard.	All barangays with forest areas have low to intermediate risk from flood hazard. All barangays with agriculture areas have intermediate to high risk from flood hazard. All barangays with coastal areas have high risk from flood hazard.	Flood mitigation initiatives (e.g., women-led reforestation, afforestation, natural water retention ponds) Community-based forestry and agroforestry (e.g., women-managed nursery of native trees, mangroves, fruit-bearing and high-value crops, livelihood linked with agroforestry and non-timber forest products benefitting women members of community organizations)
Rain-induced Landslides	All residential barangays have intermediate risk from rain-induced landslides. Approximately 10 households are at intermediate risk from rain-induced landslides.	All barangays with forest, agriculture, and coastal areas have high to very high risk from rain-induced landslides.	Reforestation/ afforestation of the headwaters of the watershed (e.g., women-managed nursery of native trees, women leaders as patrollers such as Bantay Bakawan)  Pioneer and fast-growing species that can be used for reforestation and/or afforestation found in the watersheds are the; Balinghasai (Buchanania arborescens), Anabiong (Trema orientale), Binunga (Macaranga tanarius), Kariskis (Albizia lebbekoides), Narra (Pterocarpus indicus), Hauili (Ficus septica), Bangkoro (Morinda citrifolia), (Artocarpus multifidus). Talisai (Terminalia catappa), Banato (Mallotus philippensis), Banaba (Lagerstroemia speciosa), Anislag (Securinega flexuosa), Bakauan gubat (Carallia brachiata), Badyang (Alocasia portei), and Pianga (Madhuca obovatifolia). Strengthening of riverbanks that are prone to slope failure (e.g., use of vetiver grass, establishing freshwater mangrove, bamboo propagation) Species found in the watersheds that can help in strengthening riverbanks and protect soil from erosion are the Kayong (Glochidion littorale), Bitongol (Flacourtia rukam), and Ambalag (Mischocarpus pentapetalus), Anislag (Securinega flexuosa). Community-based forestry and agroforestry (e.g., women-managed nursery of native trees, mangroves, fruit-bearing and high-value crops, livelihood linked with agroforestry and non-timber forest products benefitting women members of community organizations)
Storm Surge	All residential barangays and households have high to very high risk from storm surge.	Forest areas of 1 barangay have intermediate risk from storm surge. Agriculture areas of 1 barangay have intermediate risk from storm surge. All barangays with coastal areas have intermediate to high risk from storm surge.	Mangrove forest protection, reforestation, and windbreaks (e.g., women-led mangrove reforestation)Species found in the watersheds that can help in windbreaks are the: Bitaog (Calophyllum inophyllum) and Pandan dagat (Pandanus tectorius). Seagrass and coral reef protection and conservation (e.g., women-led seagrass conservation, women patrollers for regularly monitoring of the status of seagrass ecosystem) Rubble consolidation strategies to provide a more stable substrate for coral recruitment and recolonization Management of Marine Protected Areas (e.g., participation  of women in marine management plan development or coastal resource management plans, women patrollers or Bantay Bakawans, Bantay Dagat)  Boundary delineation Higher visibility in terms of patrolling, installation of marker buoys, and signage Stricter policy implementation Strengthening and expansion of women-managed local conservation areas
Storm surge with sea level rise	All residential barangays have very high risk from storm surge. Approximately 371 households have very high risk from storm surge.	Forest areas of 1 barangay have intermediate risk from storm surge. Agriculture areas of 1 barangay have intermediate risk from storm surge. All barangays with coastal areas have intermediate to high risk from storm surge.	Mangrove forest protection, reforestation, and windbreaks (e.g., women-led mangrove reforestation)Floating agriculture Sea grass and coral reef protection and conservation (e.g., women-led seagrass conservation, women patrollers for regularly monitoring of the status of seagrass ecosystem) Rubble consolidation strategies to provide a more stable substrate for coral recruitment and recolonization Management of Marine Protected Areas Boundary delineation Higher visibility in terms of patrolling, installation of marker buoys, and signage Stricter policy implementation Strengthening and expansion of women-managed local conservation areas
Severe Winds	All residential areas barangays are at high to very high risk from severe winds. All households are at high to very high risk from severe winds.	All barangays with forest, agriculture, and coastal areas have high risk from severe winds.	Mangrove forest protection, reforestation, and windbreaks (e.g., women-led mangrove reforestation) Species found in the watersheds that can help in windbreaks are the: Bitaog (Calophyllum inophyllum) and Pandan dagat (Pandanus tectorius).

*Baseline (5 yr, 25 yr, 100 yr RRP), RCP 4.5 2039 (5 yr, 25 yr, 100 yr RRP), RCP 4.5 2065 (5 yr, 25 yr, 100 yr RRP), RCP 4.5 2099 (5 yr, 25 yr, 100 yr RRP) RCP 8.5 2039 (5 yr, 25 yr, 100 yr RRP), RCP 8.5 2065 (5 yr, 25 yr, 100 yr RRP), RCP 8.5 2099 (5 yr, 25 yr, 100 yr RRP)

Priority will be given to proposed NbS that promote inclusion and leadership of women in the design, implementation, and monitoring of coastal and marine NbS, such as, but not limited to, mangrove reforestation, marine protected area conservation, and coastal resource management, and that strengthen women’s capacities and encourage leadership of women in project delivery and management of their natural resources. Proponents are encouraged to refer and respond to the societal and gender-related vulnerabilities and gaps identified in the GBA Plus. Throughout implementation, gender-based activities and innovation should be introduced, tested, and/or adapted to support effective delivery of results. 

Alongside the above interventions, the proposals may also include the following or similar activities in support of NbS, while clearly prioritizing the NbS and demonstrating complementation of activities:

• Development and diversification of gender-responsive community enterprises and sustainable livelihoods, consistent with the manner of protecting biodiversity;
• Legitimization and registration activities of community organizations and groups and individual members;
• Community-based enforcement in upland and coastal/marine protection activities (e.g., patrolling, equipment, and tools);
• Localized, cross-sectoral partnerships and strengthening of organizations; 
• Community and gender empowerment critical to the protection of the ecosystems; and/or
• Community-based food systems (e.g., communal garden, urban agriculture, farmers market) to support food availability.
• Recognition of the contribution of women and vulnerable sectors to coastal/marine resources management (e.g. addressing unpaid work, multiple burden and passive participation of vulnerable sectors in planning process and project implementation.)

Proponents are also encouraged to develop projects that align with existing local/community plans and frameworks, and consider past projects implemented in the area.

V. Site-based Grants: Eligible Recipients

Site-based grants will be open to all eligible proponents interested in implementing projects in the target sites in the Calamianes Group of Islands. Entities eligible to receive funds under the Program include:

• Non-government organizations (NGOs) active in the Philippines involved in environmental conservation, development, education, scientific research, ecosystems management, gender equality, and/or other related fields. NGOs refer to non-government organizations duly registered under Philippines laws;
• Organized, registered, and/or recognized community-based organizations, people’s organizations (POs), indigenous peoples’ organizations (IPOs), and/or women’s rights organizations (WROs) who work in the environment and/or development field; and
• Other appropriate local or regional entities active in the Philippines.

Implementation may be through integrated projects by one organization, or several organizations in a consortium, agreeing to perform or achieve particular outputs, for example in support of a common project outcome, conservation agreements, or a project based on local development plans.

Priority will be given to women’s rights organizations.

Proponents are encouraged to provide confirmation of support for the proposed project  from the target community or community beneficiaries, and to demonstrate established partnership or engagement with the relevant local government unit(s).

VI. Site-based Grants: Application Process

To apply for a site-based grant, eligible organizations shall complete and submit the requirements for proposals listed below:

Requirements for Project Proposals

Full Proposal	✓
Annex A. Work and Budget Plan	✓
Annex B: Project Monitoring and Evaluation Framework	✓
Annex C: Proponent Information Sheet	✓

The full proposal and other templates may be downloaded from the Grant Portal on the Forest Foundation website, downloaded at this link, and/or requested by sending an email to pcp4nbs@forestfoundation.ph.

Completed project proposals shall be uploaded and submitted through the Grant Portal on or before 5:00 pm (Philippine Time) on August 14, 2025.

VII. Site-based Grants: Proposal Evaluation and Approval

Project proposals will initially be reviewed to ascertain merit and completeness of design and technical aspects. Proposals that meet these criteria will be elevated to the Program Committee of the Foundation, which will prepare and submit recommendations to the Board of Trustees (BOT) on proposals to be funded.

Projects are expected to encapsulate the climate-biodiversity-gender nexus and align their proposed activities and outputs with the Program’s target outcomes and priorities. Proposals shall be evaluated in a holistic manner, according to: (a) general criteria on soundness, feasibility, and alignment with the Program’s Logic Model (see Figure 1); (b) NbS-specific criteria; and (c) other criteria in support of NbS. 

Proposals must meet general criteria and those demonstrate that the project is NbS, while criteria in support of NbS are not required, but may serve to strengthen the proposal. 

The proposal must meet the following general criteria:

1. Technical soundness and feasibility;
2. Financial soundness and feasibility;
3. Social soundness and feasibility;
4. Organizational capacity to implement the project;
5. Clear outcomes and results with high likelihood of achievement (feasible and attainable given the budget and duration); and
6. Alignment of the expected results (outputs and outcomes) with the Program’s Logic Model (see Figure 1).

The proposal must also demonstrate that the project is a nature-based solution (NbS), responding to the following questions:

1. Does the project respond to the priority issues identified in the VRA, GBA Plus, and MBA?
2. Does the project address local climate change adaptation needs?
3. Does it work on restoring, managing, and/or conserving ecosystems or ecosystem services?
4. Does it aim to solve a societal challenge, beyond purely conservation issues?
5. Does it provide biodiversity co-benefits?
6. Does it promote gender equality in its design and implementation?

The proposal may be strengthened by responding to the following questions, demonstrating actions in support of NbS. These are optional:

1. Does the project support development of gender-responsive community enterprises and sustainable livelihoods, consistent with the manner of protecting biodiversity?
2. Does the project contribute to strengthening organizations and promote cross-sectoral partnerships?
3. Does the project contribute to community and gender empowerment in the area?
4. Does the project support transdisciplinary knowledge sharing, strategic communications and/or learning mechanisms and processes towards building capacities on NbS towards transformative change?
5. Does the project target other NbS criteria under the IUCN Global Standard for NbS?

Awarded grants shall be publicly announced by the Foundation and communicated to the grantee. Once a proposal is approved, the Foundation will enter into a legally-binding Special Fund Agreement with the grantee.

VIII. Timeline

For this round of proposals for site-based grants, please note the indicative  timeline below. 

Proposal Submission and Evaluation Timeline

Activity	Indicative Schedule
Request for Proposals (Issuance)	July 14, 2025
Deadline for Technical Questions	July 21, 2025
Project Development Workshop	July 3-4, 2025
Deadline of Submission of Proposals	August 14, 2025
Proposal Evaluation	August – September 2025
BOT Deliberation	September 2025
Announcement of Results	September – October 2025
Project Implementation	November 2025 onwards

A Project Development Workshop will be conducted to provide further information about the Program, the scope of site-based grants, the types of projects that may be supported,  and technical assistance on the grant application process to enhance and strengthen submissions for possible funding. The workshop is open to all eligible proponents for projects in Calamianes Group of Islands. Additional information sessions on the proposal development and submission process may be organized, as needed.

Proponents may reach out to the Foundation via email (pcp4nbs@forestfoundation.ph) for any assistance needed in proposal development. Technical inquiries, or those related to Proposal Evaluation and Approval in Section VII above, shall only be accepted until 5:00 pm (Philippine Time) on July 21, 2025. 

All proposals shall be submitted through the Forest Foundation Grants Portal no later than 5:00 pm (Philippine Time) on August 14, 2025. Proposals received after the deadline may be considered based on the availability of funds, and/or included and evaluated under a subsequent RFP.

IX. Contact

Philippines-Canada Partnership on Nature-based Solutions (NbS) for Climate Adaptation (PCP4NbS)

Forest Foundation Philippines
1F Valderrama Bldg., 107 Esteban St., Legaspi Village
1229 Makati City, Philippines

PCP4NbS Phone: (+63 2) 8716 4067; 
Forest Foundation Phone: (+63 2) 8891 0595; (+63 2) 8864 0287

Forest Foundation Website | PCP4NbS Website l Grant Portal

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Email: pcp4nbs@forestfoundation.ph