Manila: The European Union (EU) has unveiled two new grant initiatives aimed at fostering a green transition in the Philippines, as announced by its mission in Manila. The 'Community Grants' and 'Circular Economy Education and Behavioral Change Grants' are designed to support projects in 10 local government units (LGUs) across the country, with a focus on reducing waste, promoting inclusion, and enhancing environmental education.

According to Philippines News Agency, the EU has set a deadline of May 5 for eligible groups to submit their proposals. The grants will be implemented in various locations including Baguio City, Caloocan City, Davao City, Del Carmen in Siargao, Iloilo City, Pasig City, Puerto Princesa City, Ormoc City, Quezon City, and the Island Garden City of Samal.

The funding includes a maximum of USD80,000 for the Community Grant and USD30,000 for the Circular Economy Education and Behavioral Grant, available for one civil society organization (CSO) per LGU. Ileana Miritescu, Programme Manager at the EU Delegation to the Philippines, emphasized the potential impact of these grants in empowering communities to turn waste into valuable resources through grassroots initiatives.

The Community Grants are designed to help CSOs strengthen the institutional capacities of gender equality, disability, and social inclusion (GEDSI) groups, focusing on circularity in plastics, organics, and the tourism sector. Meanwhile, the Circular Economy Education and Behavioral Change Grants aim to raise awareness and shift stakeholder attitudes towards circular economy principles.

These initiatives are part of the EU's broader collaboration with the Philippine government, led by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Interested CSOs can submit their proposals via the UNDP website. The announcement of successful grantees is expected in August this year.