DSWD concludes 2025 implementation of Project LAWA at BINHI, sets direction for 2026

Malay, Aklan- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), through the Risk Resiliency Program–Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation (RRP-CCAM), gathered project focals and implementers from field offices nationwide for the National Planning of Project LAWA (Local Adaptation to Water Access) and Project BINHI (Breaking Insufficiency through Nutritious Harvest for the Impoverished) for FY 2026 in Malay, Aklan.

Hosted by DSWD Field Office VI, this year’s conference carried the theme “Strengthening Foundations for a Greener, Resilient Future,” underscoring the agency’s commitment to building climate-resilient communities through strengthened planning and the development of sustainable, nature-based solutions.

The week-long activity highlighted the accomplishments of field offices in 2025, particularly the establishment and maintenance of small farm reservoirs under LAWA and community gardens under BINHI.

Dr. Maria Isabel B. Lanada, Director IV of the Disaster Response Management Bureau, delivered an inspirational message emphasizing the importance of the projects in empowering partner-beneficiaries and supporting marginalized and disaster-prone communities.

Nicole Rose B. Fontanilla, OIC–Division Chief and Supervising Administrative Officer of the DRMB Disaster Operations Support Division, also presented the draft Enhanced Project LAWA at BINHI Guidelines.

Adding to the messages of support were DSWD Field Office VI OIC–Regional Director Joselito G. Estember and Field Office VIII Regional Director Grace Q. Subong, who expressed sincere appreciation to all project implementers for their unwavering dedication to advancing climate-adaptive interventions across the country.

Meanwhile, PDO III and RRP-CCAM National Focal Jazzner Julian S. De Dios reaffirmed the program’s support for enhancing local adaptation strategies and expressed optimism for stronger implementation in 2026.

Aligned with the directive of DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian, the national planning conference marks a significant step toward institutionalizing Project LAWA at BINHI as flagship initiatives for rapid and sustained disaster response and community resilience. /jam