JICA reaffirms ties with Ifugao govt towards energy transition, rice terraces conservation, and climate change management

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Provincial Government of Ifugao (PGI) signed on July 24, 2024, the Scope of Work to proceed the “Follow-up Cooperation for the Mini-Hydropower Development Project” greenlighting the rehabilitation of the Likud Mini-Hydropower Plant (LMHP) in Asipulo, Ifugao as well as the continuous support in the capacity development of PGI.

The construction of the LMHP, an 820-kW run-off river type, environment-friendly power plant, was completed in 2015 under JICA’s grant aid cooperation with the National Economic and Development Authority in cooperation with the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Ifugao Government. The hydropower plant project’s goals are to diversify energy sources and reduce gas emissions, thereby improving the quality of life of Ifugao communities. This project will also support the conservation of the World Heritage Site, Ifugao Rice Terraces, by using funds generated by the LMHP for its protection and maintenance.

For the follow-up cooperation, JICA’s support will consist of hard and soft components – the rehabilitation of the plant facility and strengthening PGI’s capacity in its operations.

JICA Chief Representative SAKAMOTO Takema underlined the importance of this project in line with the national agenda saying, “Our collaboration is very relevant and timely in achieving the Philippines’ renewable energy target and addressing climate change.” He also cites economic and cultural benefits through the preservation of the Ifugao Rice Terraces.

Ifugao Provincial Governor Jerry Dalipog expressed his gratitude for JICA's continued support to the province, especially on the rehabilitation of the LMHP. He also reaffirmed the PGI's commitment to ensuring the initiative's success and sustainability.

JICA has been one of Ifugao Province’s most trusted partners over the years, highlighting projects such as the Maternal and Child Health Project in the early 2000s and the recently completed yen loan, the Forestland Management Project. In addition, around 20 trainees and scholars from Ifugao has been sent to study in Japan. As such, JICA has been reinforcing “Heart-to-Heart ties”, and underpinning further prosperity.