Press Release

A cooperation project between Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) recently turned over some PHP83-million worth of agroforestry infrastructure consisting of access roads and irrigation systems to municipalities in Nueva Vizcaya.

The infrastructures form part of JICA's assistance to the Philippines' environment conservation efforts assisting upland communities, mostly poor farmers, increase their livelihood while protecting the country's critical watersheds. Under the JICA-DENR Forestland Management Project (FMP), the 71,300 hectares of forest resources and watersheds in Iloilo, Ifugao, Nueva Ecija, Nueva Vizcaya and Quirino are being appropriately protected through comprehensive site development, strengthening of watershed management bodies and people's organizations through enhancing their capacities in agroforestry and enterprise development, and construction of agroforestry support facilities among others.

"The forestland management project is testimony that international organizations, government, and local communities can work together to protect precious natural resources. The project also develops the capacity of people dependent on forest resources to explore the improvement of their livelihood. Our close partnership between the Philippine friends and JICA is realizing balanced society both with nature conservation and sustainable and inclusive growth through this project," said JICA Chief Representative SAKAMOTO Takema.

FMP is helping bridge the gap in forest conservation efforts to also contribute to the sustainable management of watersheds, a critical water source for the country's population. In Nueva Vizcaya, said projects will benefit some 5,300 households.

"JICA's partnership with the Philippines will continue such support which will also help mitigate the impact of climate change and improve the quality of life of many people," added Sakamoto.

JICA was the Philippines' largest bilateral donor partner in 2020. Aside from the environment, JICA also enthusiastically supports the Philippines in various areas such as railways, roads and bridges, maritime safety and security, investment promotion, energy, disaster management, agriculture, social development, and Mindanao peace and development among others.

1st row left-right: Bua Access Road and Abuang Access Road with Overflow Bridge
Photos courtesy of the DENR

2nd row left-right: Balangabang Access Road and Payasapas Irrigation Pipeline System
Photos courtesy of the DENR