Manila: The Climate Change Commission (CCC) has called on local government units (LGUs) across the nation to submit Concept Notes (CNs) for initial consideration for the People's Survival Fund (PSF) by the May 29 deadline. The initiative aims to support communities vulnerable to environmental risks by expanding climate adaptation projects.
According to Philippines News Agency, the PSF Board mentioned in an interview that the fund is specifically targeting LGUs with limited capacity. The objective is to facilitate financing for climate adaptation projects that surpass the budgetary constraints of local governments. Successful LGUs will be invited to submit a comprehensive proposal following the initial assessment.
The PSF Board emphasized that the fund assists LGUs by providing climate-specific financial resources for projects addressing climate risks such as flooding, drought, landslides, and rising sea levels. The fund aims to enhance local resilience, safeguard livelihoods and infrastructure, and integrate climate adaptation into local development planning.
The Department of Finance, which serves as the chair and secretariat of the PSF Board, began accepting submissions for concept notes on climate adaptation initiatives earlier this month. Under Republic Act 10174, the PSF is allocated a minimum of PHP1 billion annually from the national budget, supplemented by grants, donations, and contributions from development partners and the private sector.
The CCC noted that there is no predetermined number of LGUs for approval under the current call for submissions. Instead, applications will be assessed based on project quality, climate rationale, readiness, and alignment with national adaptation priorities. Additionally, there is no fixed ceiling for project costs, as funding depends on project scope, readiness, and anticipated adaptation impact.
Eligible projects include areas such as water resource management, agriculture and fisheries, land management, health systems, infrastructure development, and the protection of natural and coastal ecosystems. The CCC has committed to providing technical assistance and conducting capacity-building activities to help more LGUs access the fund.
Robert E. A. Borje, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director, highlighted the importance of expanding climate finance mechanisms to build a climate-resilient Philippines, especially for communities most at risk from climate-related disasters. This initiative aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s climate resilience agenda.
Interested applicants are encouraged to submit their concept notes through the PSF Board Secretariat until May 29, 2026. Additional information is available on the official Facebook page of the Department of Finance. Borje encouraged local governments and partners to develop proposals that address specific climate risks and protect their communities.
