United Nations in Philippines

The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in the Philippines.

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26 March 2026

United Nations Philippines 2025 Annual Results Report - 2026 Prospects

The 2025 Annual Results Report of the United Nations in the Philippines outlines how the UN system supported national development priorities over the year under the 2024–2028 UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework.The report highlights key development results, investments, and partnerships across human capital, inclusive economic development, climate action, governance, and peace, aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals and Philippine Development Plan priorities.It also documents how the UN is adapting its role as the Philippines moves toward upper middle‑income status, shifting from project delivery toward policy support, systems strengthening, and financing for scale.The report provides a consolidated overview of financial resources, joint programmes, and contributions from government, development partners, and the private sector, emphasizing coherence and results.Finally, the report outlines UN priorities for 2026, focusing on resilience, inclusion, climate action, and institutional reform, while reinforcing the UN’s long‑standing partnership with the Philippines.

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15 April 2026

Energy security: Nine ways the UN is supporting the Philippines

The Philippines’ energy system is shaped by longstanding challenges, such as high electricity prices, dependence on imported fuels, and climate related disruptions, all of which have become more acute amid global volatility in recent weeks. The United Nations has been working with the Government and communities to broaden clean energy access, support grid improvements and strengthen resilience — measures that contribute to a more secure and affordable energy future, as well as a healthier and more inclusive Philippines. Here are nine ways the United Nations is supporting the Philippines’ energy security:1. Building a low carbon transport system Transport remains one of the country’s most oil-dependent sectors, representing a critical vulnerability to national energy security. In response, the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) has supported the Government in the development of an Electric Vehicle Incentive Strategy and provided comprehensive macroeconomic and value chain analyses, strengthened local energy planning, and the deployment of solar-hybrid charging infrastructure solutions, along with innovative and viable business models to accelerate the transition toward low-carbon public transport. This project was funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF). UN-Habitat works with the government in promoting compact, mixed-use and transit-oriented urban development that aligns neighborhood growth with public transport corridors and stations, helping to shorten travel distances and reduce transport emissions. It also promotes to LGUs the value of people-centred street design, with reliable and affordable public transport so that low-carbon mobility becomes practical for daily travel. UN Women advocates for gender-responsive transport infrastructure planning, ensuring low carbon transport systems are accessible, well-lit, and safe for women commuters and workers in the sector, thereby increasing uptake and reducing transport-related emissions. 2. Streamlining offshore wind developmentOffshore wind represents one of the Philippines’ largest long term domestic energy opportunities. The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) has supported the establishment of the permitting and licensing framework as well as a planning tool for the introduction of offshore wind power, which could facilitate up to 19 GW of electricity capacity. The country’s total energy generating capacity is around 30 GW, more than 40% of this from coal. 3. Preparing the grid for higher renewable energy integrationTo ensure that new renewable energy capacity can be absorbed by the national grid, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and partners are strengthening smart grid development, power sector planning, and clean energy market frameworks. Support includes improved permitting rules, market readiness measures, and capacity building for energy regulators and distribution utilities. In parallel, UNOPS is working to advance smart grid implementation with electric cooperatives, helping to modernize distribution networks through digital solutions, advanced metering, and smarter energy management. These interventions improve grid stability and reduce exposure to fossil fuel price volatility. UNOPS has strengthened the capacity of the Department of Energy, the National Transmission Corporation, and the Energy Regulatory Commission to improve integrated generation and transmission planning, helping to identify the investments needed to connect renewable energy sources to the grid, align transmission development with rapid capacity expansion, and ease potential grid bottlenecks.UNOPS has also delivered key assessments on energy storage, including pumped storage hydropower, to support grid reliability and enable greater use of solar and wind. At the market level, UNOPS has contributed to reforms in the wholesale electricity spot market to improve competition, transparency, and the integration of clean energy. 4. Making industries more energy efficient and climate smartUNIDO is helping the Philippines reduce industrial energy demand through technical assistance for the financing of energy efficient design, the development of climate action standards for MSMEs, and support for the development of a climate smart industry roadmap. By improving energy performance in energy-intensive industrial sectors, including at MSMEs, the measures introduced under this project, supported by the Government of Germany, reduce overall electricity demand on the grid and improve the resilience of key productive sectors. UNIDO, in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry and the Government of Canada, developed the Philippines Cement Decarbonization Roadmap. The roadmap evaluates feasible technology options and decarbonization scenarios, identifying requirements for technology adoption, and ensuring robust private sector engagement. WHO has supported the Department of Health with development of Guidelines on Green and Safe Health Facilities, in which renewable energy and low carbon strategies are included.Furthermore, WHO links industrial energy efficiency with occupational health, reducing worker exposure to pollutants and improving community air quality.UN Women promotes tailored support to women entrepreneurs to access green financing, training, and cleaner production technologies, reducing both costs and environmental burdens.The International Labour Organization (ILO) supports the Philippines in advancing energy security by engaging employers and workers to promote energy efficiency and environmental sustainability as part of a just transition. It encourages enterprises, both multinational and domestic, to adopt greener practices that reduce environmental impact while creating jobs and improving working conditions. Through social dialogue and alignment with international labour standards, these efforts contribute to inclusive, low-carbon growth and more resilient energy use across industries. 5. Expanding solar powered, climate resilient housing for remote communities In Surigao City, UN-Habitat supported the construction of solar powered, climate resilient stilt housing for Sama Bajau indigenous families resettled from disaster-prone areas. These homes reduce dependence on costly and at times unreliable grid connections. This strengthens energy access and resilience for communities frequently cut off during storms, and can serve as a model for government roll-out of similar initiatives in other parts of the country. UN-Habitat is also working on piloting green, affordable housing projects under an ASEAN initiative. This includes integrating cost-effective practical solutions such as graywater treatment systems, rainwater harvesting and solar-ready retrofitting.UN Women supports co-design with women residents of solar-powered housing, which reduces reliance on unsafe fuels often managed by women for cooking and lighting. 6. Promoting a just green transition The ILO ensures that energy transition investments in the Philippines translate into jobs, skills, and sustainable economic returns. Recognizing that the success of the green transition depends not only on technology but also on the availability of a skilled workforce, the ILO is helping to establish industry-led apprenticeships and technical training aligned with renewable energy and infrastructure investments. Large-scale renewable projects sometimes overlook women’s participation in technical and leadership roles. UN Women supports women’s inclusion in energy governance and regulatory bodies. UN Women and UNEP support women, including entrepreneurs, by providing training that builds their knowledge and practical skills in renewable energy, helping them access green jobs in the historically male dominated energy sector.UNOPS is supporting the development of BARMM’s Sustainable Energy Master Plan, helping the region articulate its own pathway toward reliable, affordable, and clean energy. This work strengthens local institutions, aligns regional priorities with national goals, and ensures that the benefits of the transition reach communities most in need. UN Women and UNEP supported the integration of gender perspectives into the Iloilo Provincial Renewable Energy Plan, creating a concrete model for LGUs to institutionalize gender-responsive energy and conservation strategies, including dedicated financing for renewable energy through a provincial resolution. 7. Strengthening energy resilience in food systems, health and educationSecure and reliable energy is a critical enabler of resilient food systems and essential health and education services particularly in climate vulnerable and geographically isolated areas. UNIDO is supporting the development of climate resilient water-energy-food infrastructure in Tawi-Tawi in the BARMM. This includes renewable energy-linked systems that power water systems including desalination, support to seaweed production, agriculture, and food processing services. By securing energy for essential services in remote provinces, the project, funded by the Adaptation Fund, helps reduce vulnerability to supply disruptions and climate shocks. Also in the BARMM, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is set to construct solar-powered ice block making plants in strategic locations to allow fishers to access ice much closer to fish landing sites. Besides lowering dependence on gasoline, these plans will also lead to decreased transport emissions and costs as fishers will no longer need to travel long distances just to preserve their catch. The World Food Programme (WFP), in support of the Department of Social Welfare and Development, promotes community-led small farm reservoirs, ponds, and community gardens. This strengthens local water management and food production while reducing reliance on energy intensive irrigation, pumping, and long-distance food transport. Producing food closer to where it is consumed lowers fuel and electricity use, while diversifying livelihoods and improving access to nutritious food in climate vulnerable communities. In cooperation with the Government of BARMM, WFP has directly supposed over 30,000 people with climate resilience building activities such as rehabilitating watersheds and small farm reservoirs, reducing reliance on fossil fuels for food production.WFP has assisted the Department of Information and Communications Technology to strengthen emergency telecommunications capacity by integrating solar-powered solutions that enable the emergency operations independent of grid power.WHO advocates for reliable power in all health-care facilities and supports facility-level contingency planning to ensure continuity of infection prevention, diagnostics, and emergency care during grid disruptions. It provides technical guidance on vaccine cold chain reliability and promotes energy-efficient refrigeration systems in health facilities to safeguard medicines and vaccines, reducing risks of foodborne illness and compromised immunization programmes.In parallel, UNDP is strengthening energy resilience in health systems in the BARMM: In Lanao del Sur, hybrid solar photovoltaic systems are being installed in health facilities to ensure reliable power for essential services, including cold storage for medicines and vaccines.Children cannot afford to lose access to essential social services like health, education, and water and sanitation due to the energy crisis. UNICEF works with multiple national government agencies to support the adoption of solar power by schools, healthcare facilities, and water service providers. Investing in alternative, renewable energy for social services reduces operational costs over time while strengthening resilience and preparedness. 8. Improving supply chain efficiency for agriculture and fisheriesFood supply chains in the Philippines are energy intensive, with cold storage facilities heavily reliant on electricity and diesel. By contributing to the National Cold Chain Industry Roadmap and supporting climate smart agrifood systems, FAO and UNIDO are helping to reduce energy waste, improve refrigeration efficiency, and stabilize food energy consumption. More efficient cold chains reduce pressure on the grid and help keep food systems operating during supply chain disruptions. Ten Cold Chain Innovation Hub demonstration pilot projects – developed through support from the Global Environment Fund – are expected to deliver energy savings of over 3,000 MWh and 9,000 metric tons of CO2 emissions by 2040.FAO is distributing heavy-duty cooler boxes to fishers in the BARMM to help reduce spoilage, leading to fewer fishing trips and reduced fuel costs. On top of this, providing refrigerated vans to fisher communities saves on fuel use as community-based organizations can consolidate their products and utilize a single, efficient transport system. UN Women works to provide women – who dominate micro and small-scale food retail and fisheries post-harvest activities – equal access to cold storage facilities and training in energy-efficient practices.A WFP-backed initiative to source nutritious food for school feeding programmes locally from farmers reduces energy use associated with food storage, transport, and imports, while ensuring reliable access to safe, nutritious meals for children in school. 9. Strengthening shock responsive social protection systems to help households absorb energy volatilityWFP supports the Government to strengthen adaptive and shock responsive social protection, so assistance can be scaled rapidly and effectively in response to climate and other shocks, such as the energy crisis. This support enables government agencies to identify energy-exposed vulnerable households, and focus on those pushed into distress by fuel price hikes.UNICEF is supporting the government to advance adaptive and shock-responsive social protection, so that when system-wide disruptions or climate shocks affect household incomes, timely cash support is provided. These payments provide vulnerable families with a critical buffer in times of crisis – including energy crises – while also helping governments respond more efficiently by easing pressure on emergency services. This intervention helps preserve children’s access to essential services, even amid economic volatility and shocks.Through the UN Global Accelerator on Jobs and Social Protection for Just Transition, the ILO supports the integration of shock-responsive social protection into energy transition strategies. Through social dialogue, the ILO reduces implementation risks during the shift to cleaner energy systems.In Cagayan Province, FAO builds on existing shock-responsive social protection systems to provide support to the most vulnerable rural communities impacted by the typhoon. Farmers and fishers enrolled in the Department of Agriculture's Registry System for Basic Sector in Agriculture, who were previously impacted by consecutive typhoons in the province, have received PHP 17,000 each in livelihood assistance, part of which they utilized to purchase fuel for their boats and farm machineries, reducing the impact of the rising fuel costs.Working with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform in the BARMM, WHO advocates for shock-responsive social protection systems that safeguard household access to food, water, and healthcare during energy price spikes or supply disruptions. WHO emphasizes health equity in energy interventions, ensuring vulnerable families maintain essential health services during crises.UN Women’s Transforming Care Economy initiative in Quezon City embeds gender equality into energy-related social protection: By integrating into the care economy gender-responsive and energy-saving measures, such as targeted energy subsidies and renewable-powered community-based care facilities, social protection can reduce inequities, support women’s cooperatives, and bolster resilience. This approach positions women as key actors in shaping inclusive energy security strategies. Energy security in support of the SDGs“From offshore wind readiness to industrial efficiency, from solar powered housing, schools and health care facilities, the UN’s work in the Philippines directly strengthens the country’s energy security while advancing inclusive, climate resilient development,” said Arnaud Peral, United Nations Resident Coordinator in the Philippines. “These initiatives help reduce dependence on volatile global energy markets, promote locally sourced clean energy, and ensure that communities — from megacities to remote islands — have the stable energy access they need for a more resilient future.”

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26 March 2026

Sustainable Urbanisation in ASEAN - Stories from the ground

International Women’s Day – Gender & HousingAdvancing Gender-Responsive Green and Affordable Housing in Caloocan CityWomen around the world are struggling with housing due to rapid urban growth, which can lead to growth in informal settlements in high-risk areas. An increasing number of families spend more than 40 per cent of their income on housing – this threshold is referred to as the “housing cost overburden rate”. Residents in Caloocan City, located in Metro Manila, continue to grapple with housing pressures. While social housing projects have been developed to address displacement, some sites remain only partially operational due to pending permits and coordination gaps among authorities. As a result, many potential beneficiaries are unable to occupy units that were intended to provide stability and security for them.AMCA Residences: Challenges and Community StrengthOne such site is AMCA Residences in North Caloocan. Developed under a national housing program, the project continues to face regulatory and technical barriers, and families are not able to fully settle in. Yet, amidst these challenges, a powerful story of community leadership has emerged. Of the 303 beneficiaries at AMCA Residences, nearly two-thirds, are women. The Homeowner’s Association (HOA) is led by Virginia Lorica, under whose leadership residents have organized their community and also pursued livelihood opportunities, including the production and sale of knitted crochet cleaning rags.A Pilot for Green and Affordable HousingRecognizing both the challenges and the potential of the site, the Caloocan Local Government Unit, under the leadership of the City Mayor Hon. Dale Gonzalo Malapitan and in coordination with the Housing and Resettlement Office, is developing a technical proposal, with support from UN-Habitat, under the ASEAN Sustainable Urbanisation Strategy (ASUS) Project Phase II to support AMCA Residences as a pilot green affordable housing project. The proposal focuses on three interconnected pillars: Institutional Coordination: Strengthen collaboration between national agencies, utility providers, and beneficiaries to resolve compliance and occupancy barriers that have stalled the project.Green Infrastructure: Integrating practical, feasible solutions such as graywater treatment systems, rainwater harvesting, and solar-ready retrofitting to improve site performance and affordability.Community Ownership: During consultations, the HOA expressed its willingness to position AMCA Residences as a model, ensuring improvements are driven and sustained through the community itself.“We are open to becoming a pilot site for green and affordable housing in the city,” Ms. Lorica said. “We believe this initiative can improve the lives of our beneficiaries and help make our community more sustainable.”Gender and Housing: An Inseparable ConnectionAMCA Residences offers a compelling illustration of how gender and housing intersect in urban communities. With women at the forefront of leadership and comprising the majority of beneficiaries, the site demonstrates that women are not merely passive recipients of housing support, they are agents of governance, livelihood and community resilience, explained Alyosha Mallari, Local Project Officer of UN-Habitat Philippines. “AMCA Residences has the potential to become a replicable model for gender-responsive, green and affordable housing in Caloocan City,” he said.ASEAN and UN-Habitat, with the support of the Government of Australia, continue to work to strengthen communities through women-lead organizations, demonstrating their commitment to building cities where every woman has the right to live, lead, and thrive. ASEAN Sustainable Urbanisation Strategy (ASUS) Project – Phase II The project “Accelerating the Implementation of the ASEAN Sustainable Urbanisation Strategy Phase II” (or “ASUS Project Phase II”) implemented by UN-Habitat and ASEAN with the support of the Government of Australia through the Australia for ASEAN Futures Initiative (AUS4ASEAN), aims to accelerate sustainable urbanization practices by implementing the ASEAN Sustainable Urbanisation Strategy (ASUS) in secondary and intermediate cities.Phase II continues to place ASUS at the center of action for sustainable urbanization in ASEAN whilst enhancing connectivity and activity for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the New Urban Agenda (NUA) across the region.

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13 March 2026

United Nations, SM Cares call for youth action for gender equality

Young people play a central role in changing social norms, including addressing gender inequality and persistent discrimination, emphasized the United Nations and SM Cares at a youth gathering on 10 March in celebration of International Women’s Day.Over 400 youth from 47 schools and organizations participated in the event titled “Youth Rising: Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls,” echoing the global theme of this year’s celebration, which calls for bold, inclusive, and collective action to break down barriers to gender justice like discriminatory laws and harmful practices and norms that erode the rights of women and girls.The day-long activity featured interactive discussions on youth participation and leadership, particularly in closing the gender gap, promoting sexual and reproductive health and rights, and achieving climate justice. Through dialogue with their peers and experts from the Philippine government, the United Nations, and civil society, the event gave participants insights and perspectives to help them translate this year’s International Women’s Day theme into concrete actions for themselves, their communities, and their peers. “Do not wait for permission to lead—it’s our present and your future on the line,” said United Nations Philippines Resident Coordinator Arnaud Peral. “This is a conversation we must have because the participation of women and girls and male allyship are critical to overcoming the challenges that shape our world, from the climate crisis to structural inequalities and persistent discrimination.”The youth agenda and ideas proposed by participants for meaningful and gender transformative participation—which include taking part in education and learning opportunities for youth engagement, promotion of free expression, empathy and gender-fair language, and ensuring inclusion—will shape United Nations Philippines interventions and engagement on youth-led initiatives. SM Cares is committed to nurturing safe spaces for the youth to play an active role in community and nation-building, standing hand and hand with the United Nations for rights, justice, and action for all women and girls. “At SM Supermalls, we believe our spaces can do more—serving as platforms that bring people together and help drive these important conversations forward. Through SM Cares, we continue to champion programs that uplift women and girls, promote gender equality, and encourage youth leadership across our communities. Our commitment to being a truly inclusive 'Mall for All' means creating places where women and girls feel welcome, supported, and empowered to connect, learn, and inspire change,” said Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls.

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03 March 2026

UN Philippines, PCW, SM Cares call for gender equality at National Women's Month kick-off celebration

MANILA. The SM Mall of Asia Globe was illuminated bright purple on 2 March as part of celebrations led by the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), SM Cares, and United Nations Philippines to kick off National Women's Month. The ceremonial illumination is an annual tradition spearheaded by PCW to rally broader public support gender equality and women's empowerment, as well as showcase women's leadership and achievements. As part of the #PurpleYourIcon initiative, architectural icons, building facades and digital displays are lit up purple, which is a color that has been symbolically linked to women and gender equality.Under the theme of "WE [Women and Everyone] for Gender Equality and Inclusive Society," this year's celebration calls for the promotion of gender-responsive programs and policies to ensure that women have equitable access to opportunities and resources, enabling them to fully participate in decision-making and exercise leadership in their communities. A critical component needed for transformative change is to remove barriers to women's access to rights and justice—hurdles such as outdated legislation that still shape every aspect of a woman’s life, from the home, to classrooms and workplaces. Discriminatory laws and practices should be addressed to ensure the dignity, opportunity and freedom all women deserve."Women and girls in the Philippines and across the world need and deserve equal protection under the law. It is when we make justice a reality in their every day lives can we have a gender equal society that ensures dignity and opportunity for all," said UN Philippines Resident Coordinator Arnaud Peral.

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20 February 2026

Land, Livelihoods, Legacy: IFAD’s Commitment to Indigenous Peoples' Empowerment in the Philippines

For generations, the indigenous peoples (IPs) of the Philippines have woven their lives into the fabric of their ancestral lands. For them, these lands are more than a place to live: They are the heart of their identity, the source of their traditions, and the foundation of a sustainable existence. Years of research have shown that indigenous communities are the best protectors of the forests they call home. Yet, for many, this connection was threatened by a lack of formal recognition of custodianship: this puts their livelihoods, culture and very futures at risk. Without secure rights to the lands they stewarded for centuries, a legacy of environmental harmony and cultural knowledge could disappear. However, many indigenous communities have been turning the tide with support from the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). Built on respect and empowerment, IFAD’s partnership with indigenous peoples enables IPs to lead their own development and transform their ancestral domains – a term that refers to their land rights in national law – into pillars of strength and opportunity: 400,000 IPs have benefitted from such initiatives over the last three decades. The Philippine Action Plan for Family Farming 2019-2028 acknowledges IFAD’s crucial role in supporting IPs, including on land-related protection. Securing the Foundation: From Stewardship to Legal Rights The journey begins with the land itself. Recognizing that true empowerment starts with secure land tenure, IFAD has made strengthening ancestral land rights a cornerstone of its work since 1997. In the highlands Cordillera Administrative Region, for instance, the Cordillera Highland Agricultural Resource Management Projects (CHARM I & II) helped Indigenous communities secure legal recognition of their ancestral lands. Reaching 170 barangays—99 per cent of which were Indigenous— CHARM II pioneered an approach where communities pledged customary stewardship of vital watersheds. This approach, rooted in indigenous knowledge systems and practices, bridged traditional governance with environmental protection and provided over 220,000 IPs with a continued livelihood. Similarly, in Mindanao, the Western Mindanao Community Initiatives Project (WMCIP) and the Northern Mindanao Community Initiatives and Resource Management Project (NMCIREMP) were instrumental in supporting indigenous groups to turn ancestral land claims into official titles. Datu Balitungtung, a Higaunon tribal leader who participated in the project, said: “I have been working for 20 years for IP governance. But I have never [before] found what IP governance should look like...; it’s simple but with concrete steps... that coalesce the Indigenous Peoples’ structures and institutions.” Through these projects, communities got the tools they needed to protect their land and plan their development in culturally sensitive ways. Cultivating Opportunity: From Rights to Resilient Livelihoods Securing land rights is only the beginning to unlocking opportunities and building sustainable livelihoods. The CHARM projects introduced sustainable agriculture and natural resource management techniques based on indigenous knowledge systems and practices, while the other projects supported a range of initiatives led by locals, from building marine sanctuaries to rehabilitating mangroves and farming upland, all tailored to fit their specific context and culture. To ensure the economic benefits reached those who needed them most, various projects launched funding facilities dedicated to the poorest households, with a focus on indigenous peoples, including women-led families. These funds have supported micro-enterprises and community groups, proving that even modest investments can spark significant change when communities are in the driver's seat. For example, the Paddaoan Livestock and Livelihood Association, in Apayao Province took advantage of a small CHARM loan – around US$ 2000 –to purchase a new variety of piglets that were distributed to the 21 members of the group. They also received training in organic swine production, bookkeeping and business management. Households had typically raised just one pig of the native variety at a time, keeping it tied to a tree trunk until it was butchered and the meat distributed to relatives. They now raise an average of two pigs – one for fattening, one for sow raising. Both are profitable: a grown pig will sell for over US$ 250 and typically each sow will give a minimum of two litters of 5-10 piglets a year, which sell for a total of US$ 400-800. Dionisio Talang, one of the members, said: “People are more involved now that they actually know how to raise livestock and take care of it instead of just leaving their animals tied to a tree. This project has taught us how to do business and it has raised our standard of living.” Using the extra income, the association was able to pay back the initial loan. IFAD’s Indigenous Peoples Assistance Facility (IPAF) has directly empowered communities to design and implement their own initiatives. It has funded grassroots projects focused on food security, environmental sustainability and cultural resilience, ensuring that livelihoods are not only economically viable but also culturally affirming. Average poverty incidence between 2017 and 2022 declined by 14.5 per cent in areas that received IFAD support. Honoring the Past, Shaping the Future: A Legacy for All Times The partnership strengthens indigenous heritage while empowering communities to shape their own future, highlighted Ilaria Firmian, Senior Technical Specialist at IFAD. “By championing indigenous leadership, recognizing customary laws and integrating traditional knowledge into climate actions and food systems, IFAD’s approach reinforces identity and self-determination,” she said. Platforms like the Indigenous Peoples’ Forum and the Agriculture and Rural Development Knowledge and Policy Platform, along with annual national consultations, have become vital spaces for dialogue. They have highlighted the importance of Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) – a human right that requires that indigenous peoples receive accessible information and be consulted about and consent to any activities undertaken on their land – and showcased the critical role that Indigenous youth and women play in building inclusive and resilient food systems. “This journey—from securing land to building livelihoods and preserving a legacy—offers a powerful model for inclusive rural transformation,” Firmian said. “It demonstrates that when indigenous peoples are empowered to lead their own development, they can build sustainable futures rooted in their rights, knowledge, and traditions.” As the United Nations marks its 80th anniversary in the Philippines, the work of IFAD and its indigenous partners stands as a powerful example of what can be achieved when development is built on a foundation of respect and empowerment.

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Press Release

10 April 2026

United Nations - Philippines partnership strengthened in 2025 through delivering impact for sustainable development

United Nations Philippines expanded progress on its three key priority areas of work in the country—human development, inclusive economic growth, and environmental sustainability—through a total investment of over $189 million in projects and policy assistance in 2025.Marking the second year of implementation of the 2024–2028 Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework, the United Nations outlined the contributions made toward these development goals in the 2025 Annual Results Report, published on 10 April. The report provides a comprehensive overview of the work of 25 United Nations agencies, funds and programmes in the Philippines towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It also provides information on partnerships, joint initiatives, and resource requirements needed to support the Philippines as it transitions toward upper middle-income status.“The year 2025 was a challenging one for multilateralism, but the deeply rooted trust between the United Nations and its national counterparts allowed us to remain focused on delivery of its mandate,” said United Nations Philippines Resident Coordinator Arnaud Peral. “The uniquely diverse work and results achieved jointly by the United Nations, the Government and other partners in 2025 are a testament to the exceptional 80‑year bond between the Philippines and the United Nations.”The largest share of United Nations support—$125.3 million—went towards initiatives on human development, which includes healthcare, nutrition, education, housing, gender equality, governance, and peacebuilding.Continued efforts by the United Nations and partners expanded the previous year’s gains in child and maternal health. Over 800,000 children were immunized across 58 provinces and a National Immunization Strategy for 2026-2030 was adopted to sustain progress towards ensuring every child is vaccinated. In maternal health, the endorsement of the National Acceleration Plan for Ending Preventable Maternal Mortality marked a major milestone, providing a unified national framework for reducing maternal deaths and strengthening maternal and newborn health services.Programmes for early childhood education and alternative and flexible learning have helped the Philippines progress towards more inclusive and resilient education systems. United Nations support to the development of a Special Needs Education roadmap has helped 2.4 million children stay in school.UN-supported policies and reforms on social and child protection, including the Framework for Integrated Delivery of Social Protection and the draft Adaptive and Shock Responsive Social Protection Action Plan, are helping build resilience against economic and climate shocks.Strengthening governance and accountability systems has also been key to boosting government efficiency and adaptability. In providing technical assistance to the Department of Economy, Planning and Development for the issuance of the Revised National Evaluation Policy Framework, the United Nations is helping institutionalize critical monitoring and evaluation systems across government.2025 also marked a momentum for peacebuilding in the Philippines with milestones such as the establishment of the Center of Excellence on Women, Peace and Security in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), as well as the passage of the Bangsamoro Labor and Employment Code, and the inclusion of conflict prevention and peacebuilding activities in the annuals plans of six BARMM ministries—all supported by the work of the United Nations.Climate action and initiatives on environmental sustainability and disaster resilience make up the second largest investment area, totalling $44.6 million.The Declaration of a State of Imminent Disaster Act, also known as the anticipatory action law—the first of its kind in the world—was passed in September, introducing early warning systems and pre-disaster interventions, shifting national disaster risk management from reactive to proactive action. The United Nations provided policy, advocacy and multi-stakeholder engagement support for this pioneering legislation.Another major achievement in this area is the expansion of circular economy programming, with UN agencies supporting 20 local government units—double the number of the previous year—in developing green policies to reduce plastic and organic waste. Lastly, a total of $19.1 million went towards the United Nations’ work towards an inclusive economy. Joint programming by the United Nations focused on support micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which make up 99.5% of Philippine businesses. This included access to business and investment opportunities, investments in digitalisation, capacity building on artificial intelligence tools, and establishing market linkages to boost MSMEs’ international reach.The United Nations also helped strengthen efforts on decent work and social protection through its role in developing the Global Accelerator on Jobs and Social Protection for Just Transitions. Through the initiative, the Philippines developed a social protection policy framework and financing strategy for the construction and transport sectors, which are expected to be approved in 2026.In 2026, the United Nations in the Philippines will continue to enhance its programming and strategies to align with the country’s sustainable development priorities and acceleration of action towards SDGs. There will be continued emphasis on supporting government-led multi-sectoral interventions, particularly in the BARMM amid its political transition, in line with the unwavering commitment to human rights and leaving no one behind.(END)

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Press Release

18 March 2026

Public infrastructure in Bangsamoro wins national award

Bongao, Tawi-Tawi— To strengthen connections between regional institutions and island communities, UNOPS is supporting the construction of critical government facilities in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).Implemented under the EU-funded Support to Bangsamoro Transition Programme (SUBATRA), UNOPS is overseeing construction for the Office of the Chief Minister in Tawi-Tawi and Basilan.

As one of six infrastructure projects in the region, the two-story office in Barangay Lamion, Bongao, Tawi-Tawi has recently been selected for the ARC ICON 100, a prestigious recognition celebrating design excellence and innovation. The award highlights the contribution of the project’s designer, Dream Architects, whose work integrates modern functionality with elements inspired by Bangsamoro cultural identity, and reflects the island's cultural heritage through traditional design elements. Peter Browne, UNOPS Country Representative said:
“This recognition of infrastructure in Tawi-Tawi as among the country’s most impactful, shows the importance of infrastructure in advancing inclusive governance. Helping increase access to government services in remote areas is of critical importance. With our partners there is a shared commitment to infrastructure that integrates quality with cultural sensitivity, and this is an important step in strengthening regional institutions.”

Architect Daryl S. Balmoria- Garcia of Dream Architects said:"This recognition would not have been possible without the trust, collaboration, and guidance of the UNOPS team. We are truly grateful to be part of such a meaningful project for the Bangsamoro community. It is our privilege to work with UNOPS."
ENDSNotes to the editors: Press contact detailsYadhu Acharya, UNOPS Communications and Partnerships Officer for South East Asia and the Pacific. Email: yadhua@unops.org About ARC ICON 100: ARC ICON 100 is designed to spotlight the most compelling work from architecture professionals across the region. https://www.arcicon100.com/About UNOPSUNOPS offers practical solutions across peace and security, humanitarian and development operations. We help the United Nations, governments and other partners, such as the European Union and its Member States, to manage projects, and deliver sustainable infrastructure and procurement across the world. Read more: www.unops.org.About SUBATRASupport to Bangsamoro Transition (SUBATRA) is a five-year programme funded by the European Union, with co-funding from the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID), through an agreement with the Government of the Republic of the Philippines, with a value of EUR 26 million.SUBATRA contributes to a smooth and timely undertaking of the transition through capacity building of the three branches of the Bangsamoro Government and civil society organizations. This will promote an enabling good governance environment and support the efficient implementation of policies set up by the transition plan, focusing on capacities critical for the sound functioning of interim institutions. The Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) and the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace (OPAPP) are part of the project as partner agencies. AECID, UNOPS, and Particip, support SUBATRA as implementing agencies.For more information about SUBATRA, please visit www.subatra.org.

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Press Release

02 December 2025

Philippines Reinforces Support for Global Emergency Response Through UN Humanitarian Fund

The Philippines is among the top recipients in Asia and the Pacific of a United Nations mechanism for rapid humanitarian financing, having received over US$125 million for emergency response since the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) was established 20 years ago.

The Fund, which is managed by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), can release funds within 48 hours, fueling rapid action when every minute counts, remains a cornerstone of global life-saving response.“CERF is agile and fast – a critical infusion of resources to kick start life-saving response within hours or even before disaster strikes,” said Assistant Secretary Maria Teresa Almojuela of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) today at a roundtable discussion in Manila to commemorate CERF’s anniversary. “20 years ago, CERF was a critical financing innovation for the humanitarian system, and it remains a catalyst for innovation in humanitarian response today.”Since 2006 it has enabled fast, flexible, and principled humanitarian action in more than 100 countries and territories worldwide, allocating more than $9 billion to United Nations humanitarian agencies.The Philippines is not only a recipient but also an active contributor to CERF. Its contributions have grown significantly, from US$2,500 in 2019 to US$250,000 in 2025, and the country plays a leadership role through representation in the CERF Advisory Group, where Filipino experts have provided guidance and expert support since 2014.

The speakers at the event, co-organized by DFA and the United Nations Philippines discussed the benefits of the mechanism to the country – the most disaster prone in the world – as well as the increasing role the Philippines is playing in making contributions to the fund.

“CERF is vital — and we need greater investment so it can continue to adapt and evolve, while maintaining its core purpose: providing critical funds immediately, when they matter most, to save lives and livelihoods. In this context, the United Nations is grateful to the Philippines for its strengthened engagement,” said Tristan Burnett, United Nations Resident Coordinator ad interim in the Philippines.

“CERF is often the first major funding source to support emergencies and key for rapid scale up of response,” said Kyungsun Kim, UNICEF Philippines Country Representative. “Because of its operational readiness and speed, CERF fills the gaps like no other funding mechanism does.

The Fund’s impact in the Philippines is tangible. Out of $125 million over 20 years, more than $86 million was allocated to rapid response to tropical cyclones, floods, and earthquakes such as Super Typhoon Haiyan (2013) and Super Typhoon Rai (2021), while the rest of the funds were used to support live-saving response to post-conflict displacement at the time of critical shortages of funds.

As climate-related disasters intensify, CERF’s role as a reliable funding mechanism is more crucial than ever. The Philippines’ partnership with CERF exemplifies how proactive multilateral engagement and shared responsibility can save lives and strengthen global humanitarian systems.

“Within the broader realm of climate financing, CERF money is a critical lifeline that is often rolled out much faster than other, more development-oriented sources of climate, disaster risk reduction and adaptation funding,” said Emma Hickey, Ireland’s Ambassador to the Philippines and one of the panelists at today’s session.

The central role of CERF and the criticality of principled humanitarian action were reaffirmed by Christian Halaas Lyster, Norway’s Ambassador to the Philippines: “Norway likes CERF and has always been among its strongest supporters! CERF is central for humanitarian reset – together with principled humanitarian action, respect for international law and rules-based international order.”

Most recently in November 2025, CERF allocated US$5.95 million under its Anticipatory Action framework ahead of Tropical Cyclone Fung-Wong (local name Uwan), enabling pre-arranged life-saving measures before landfall. Additional rapid response allocations, including US$3.5 million for Severe Tropical Storm Trami (local name Kristine) and US$7 million for successive cyclones which supported urgent interventions in water, sanitation, shelter, food security, and protection.

For more information on CERF, see https://cerf.un.org/

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Press Release

28 November 2025

UNESCO AI Readiness Assessment Report: Anchoring Ethics in AI Governance in the Philippines

Manila, 28 November – UNESCO, in collaboration with the Philippine government, has completed the AI Readiness Assessment Methodology – marking a significant step in the Philippines’ ethical AI governance journey. This milestone report is expected to complement the country’s ongoing development of the National AI Strategy for the Philippines and other initiatives to ensure responsible AI governance.From September 2024, policy consultation workshops were conducted across the three major island groups of the Philippines—Luzon (Manila), Visayas (Cebu), and Mindanao (Davao). These workshops brought together professionals from various sectors to evaluate the country’s AI landscape across five dimensions: 1) legal/regulatory; 2) socio-cultural; 3) economy; 4) scientific and educational; and 5) technical/infrastructural, culminating in the development of the country’s AI Readiness Assessment Report.Maki Katsuno-Hayashikawa, UNESCO Director and Representative to the Philippines:“It is critical for ethics to be the foundation of AI governance. It is what allows technology to remain connected to humanity, and what enables us to use knowledge as a force for inclusion and sustainable development. UNESCO deeply values the dedication of our national partners. Together, we have laid the path forward for a transformative and inclusive AI ecosystem.”Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr., Department of Science and Technology (DOST):“AI is opening tremendous opportunities for the Philippines. Through the National AI Strategy for the Philippines (NAIS Ph) we will ensure that AI innovation is accessible, ethical, and responsive to real societal needs. We warmly welcome the UNESCO AI Readiness Assessment Report and look forward to the strategic and inclusive collaborative efforts that will make the Philippines AI-ready.”Arnaud Peral, UN Philippines Resident Coordinator“The enormous potential of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to accelerate the country’s development trajectory, while emphasizing that these advancements must benefit all people. The Philippines stands at an inflection point as it carves the AI future it wants.Inclusiveness must be at the center of these considerations. Harnessing AI responsibly can unlock opportunities across sectors, but it is imperative that no one is left behind.”As the Philippines moves forward on its AI journey, the report serves as both a roadmap and a call to action for all sectors to collaborate in shaping an ethical and inclusive AI ecosystem. The key findings and recommendations offer a comprehensive look at where the Philippines stands in its AI readiness and what steps need to be taken to ensure that AI benefits all citizens. Key Findings: Philippines’s AI landscapeThe report identified several crucial areas for Philippines’s AI readiness, including:Regulatory Framework and AI Governance: There is a need for a dedicated lead agency to consolidate national AI governance efforts. As well as leveraging the use of existing regulations, guidelines and legal frameworks—such as the Data Privacy Act of 2020 and the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 to bridge the regulatory gaps in data protection, cybersecurity, and cross-border data flow.Socio-Cultural impact: Lack of affordable, reliable, and accessible broadband internet hinder the efforts to effectively raise digital competency. Despite such challenges, the Philippines has shown progress in narrowing gender disparity and growing awareness on the importance of AI ethics in government, industry, academia, and civil society. However, public trust in AI technologies remains mixed, with concerns centred on job displacement, explainability, transparency, regulatory compliance, and data misuse.Economic, Scientific and Research: The national AI market size is projected to reach US$3,4877 million by 2030. AI adoption in private sector is quite strong, driven by optimistic views on productivity gains. Still the Philippines need toto improve its domestic innovation capacity in order to sustain growth and become globally competitive.Key Policy Recommendations:The report outlines several key policy recommendations, particularly in the areas of:Embedding Ethics in AI policy: Further academic and policy research is needed to investigate ‘ethics’ in the Philippine context rather than relying solely on the mainstream western definition and abstraction of ethics. Ethical context must be interpreted from the lens of the Filipino through historical, sociological, and anthropological research to ensure fit-for-purpose regulatory standards.Increase funding for capacity building, research and development: The establishment of National AI Research Fund under the purview of the DOST-PCIEERD could provide dedicated support for local AI research and innovation. Industry associations and academia are encouraged to analyse which AI use cases would benefit most from increased R&D funding, especially in critical sectors like IT-BPO, agriculture, manufacturing, and logistics.About the UNESCO Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence:With its unique mandate, UNESCO has led the international effort to ensure that science and technology develop with strong ethical guardrails for decades. The UNESCO Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence was adopted by 194 member states. The Recommendation is the first global standard setting instrument with applicable Policy Action Areas, which allow policymakers to translate the core values and principles into action with respect to data governance, environment and ecosystems, gender, education and research, and health and social wellbeing, among many other spheres.About Readiness Assessment Methodology:The Readiness Assessment Methodology (RAM) includes a range of quantitative and qualitative questions designed to gather information about different dimensions related to a country’s AI ecosystem, including the legal and regulatory, social, and cultural, economic, scientific, and educational, and technological and infrastructural dimensions. The RAM is currently implemented in 80 countries globally. The Philippines AI Readiness Assessment through the RAM tool is supported by the European Union through the Directorate-General for International Partnership on the “Supporting Member States in Implementing UNESCO’s Recommendation on the Ethics of AI through Innovative Tools” and International Telecommunications Union for its support via the “Enhancing the Development of Standards and Frameworks for Critical Technologies in Southeast Asia”.Link to the Philippines AI Global Observatory: Philippines | Global AI Ethics and Governance ObservatoryLink to the Philippines AI Readiness Assessment Report: Philippines: artificial intelligence readiness assessment report - UNESCO Digital Library Access all materials and event documentationhttps://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1iDSBZmad1IiUYa3jDsosdPIQPCO64X-L?usp=sharing

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Press Release

25 November 2025

JOINT PRESS RELEASE: UN, PCW, SM Cares kick off 18-Day Campaign with illumination of malls

MANILA – Malls and icons across the Philippines, including the SM North EDSA Tunnel, were illuminated orange on 24 November to launch the global 18-day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW), an annual initiative to raise awareness about one of the country’s most pervasive social problems and the measures that are being implemented to address it.Through a collaboration of United Nations Philippines, the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) and SM Cares, select SM Malls will participate in the annual “Orange Your Icon” initiative of the Philippine Government, aiming to spark public interest, discourse and support for anti-VAW advocacy efforts. The Philippine illumination activities add the country’s lights to the “Orange the World” UNiTE by 2030 to End Violence Against Women campaign, which is aligned with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target 5.2 that calls for the elimination of all forms of violence against women and girls. Orange is the signature color of the global campaign, representing a future free from gender-based violence.“Violence against women is one of the world’s most persistent human rights violations, which has sadly been normalized in many settings,” said United Nations Philippines Resident Coordinator Arnaud Peral. “We must intensify our individual and joint efforts to shift the attitudes and behaviours that perpetuate and rationalize gender-based violence to prevent such acts of abuse. The 18-Day Campaign puts the spotlight on this important issue so more people can better understand and address the many forms of violence brought about by gender inequality.” Based on the 2022 Philippine National Demographic and Health Survey, 18% of Filipino women aged 18 to 49 have experienced some form of physical, sexual or emotional violence at the hands of their partner. However, reporting of VAW cases is low—the Philippine National Police estimates that only 1 in every 10 VAW incidents is reported to authorities.“We are here because we recognize that violence against women is not inevitable, and it is not acceptable - not now, and not ever in the future. Our gathering here tonight is a declaration that we will eventually end violence against women and we will never stop until we see the end of it,” said PCW Chairperson Ermelita Valdeavilla.UN agencies in the Philippines and other development partners continue to support government-led efforts to address violence against women and girls, including the development of the National Action Plan on Ending Violence Against Women (NAP EVAW) 2025–2030, a multi-sectoral strategy aimed at eliminating VAW through stronger prevention, improved survivor services, and enhanced accountability.“As we gather for the 18 Days of Activism Against Violence Against Women, we illuminate the road to healing. We are making a collective stand, refusing to let gender-based violence remain in the shadows,” said Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte at the campaign kick-off event. Since 2021, Quezon City has assisted over 31,000 women through comprehensive monitoring of VAW cases, response through the Quezon City Protection Center and Bahay Kanlungan shelter, and helplines and other points of contact that women can turn to for help.To strengthen these vital government and multilateral initiatives, the private sector plays a key role in raising public awareness and creating safer environments.“We are committed to helping eradicate violence against women, and SM Cares continues to champion the annual ‘18-Day Campaign to End VAW,’ together with the Philippine Commission on Women and the United Nations,” said Atty. Pearl Turley, Program Director of the SM Cares Program on Women and Breastfeeding Mothers and SAVP for Corporate Compliance at SM Supermalls. “We will keep turning advocacy into action and ensuring our malls remain safe spaces. Ending VAW requires all of us.”The global 18-day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW) will run in participating SM Malls across the country from 25 November to 12 December 2025.
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