National REDD+ Congress: A Platform forLearning Exchange

Documentation Report

Imprint This publication is by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH through the Preparation of a National REDD-plus Mechanism for Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Conservation of Biodiversity in the Philippines (National REDD-plus System Philippines) Project, funded by the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Building and Nuclear Safety (BMUB) under its International Climate Initiative. BMUB supports this Initiative based on a decision of the German Parliament. For more information, see http://www.international-climate-initiative.com. As a federally owned enterprise, GIZ supports the German Government in achieving its objectives in the field of international cooperation for sustainable development. Statements from named contributors do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher. Published by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH Registered offices Bonn and Eschborn, Germany 9th Floor PDCP Bank Centre Rufino corner Leviste Streets Salcedo Village Makati City 1227 Philippines Responsible For. Ricardo L. Calderon Director, Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Forest Management Bureau Forest Management Bureau Building Visayas Avenue, Quezon City, Philippines T +63 2 928 9313 / 927 4788 Dr. Bernd-Markus Liss Principal Advisor, National REDD+ System Philippines 4th Floor Forest Management Bureau Annex Building Visayas Avenue, Quezon City, Philippines T +63 2 697 3127 Photo Credits / Sources The photos in this publication are owned by GIZ unless otherwise indicated in the photo. Layout / Design F. Mara Mendoza Printed and distributed by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH Place and date of publication Quezon City, Philippines March 2017

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Contents Acronyms .............................................................................................................................. 3

Executive summary ............................................................................................................... 4

Introduction ........................................................................................................................... 5

Marketplace .......................................................................................................................... 6

Ribbon cutting of the market place .................................................................................... 6

Opening remarks ............................................................................................................... 7

Welcome remarks ............................................................................................................. 7

Introduction to market place .............................................................................................. 8

Sharing and learning sessions during the plenary ........................................................... 10

Special sessions .............................................................................................................. 11

PTWG sharing and learning exchange ................................................................................ 14

Opening message from DENR ........................................................................................ 14

Opening message from GIZ ............................................................................................ 15

Messages from partners .................................................................................................. 16

Objective and expectation setting .................................................................................... 18

National REDD+ Mechanism in the context of the Paris Agreement and implementation of the NDCs ..................................................................................... 19

Status of REDD+ implementation, achievements, issues and concerns .......................... 19

Experiences on REDD+ implementation .......................................................................... 20

Learning exchange of REDD+ sites ................................................................................. 22

Sustainability opportunities for REDD+ implementation ................................................... 27

Learning visit and joint PTWG session ................................................................................ 29

Plenary session ............................................................................................................... 29

Message of support ......................................................................................................... 33

Introductory remarks ........................................................................................................ 33

Keynote message ............................................................................................................ 34

Joint PTWG session ........................................................................................................ 35

Closing remarks .............................................................................................................. 37

REDD+ Congress and consultations with REDD+ partners ................................................. 38

Welcome message .......................................................................................................... 38

Message from the GIZ National REDD+ System Philippines Project ............................... 38

Presentation of the outputs, agreements and the next steps of the PTWG sharing and learning exchange .................................................................................................... 39

Presentation of the joint statement .................................................................................. 40

Message of support ......................................................................................................... 42

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Presentation of the framework for updating the PNRPS review and preliminary results .................................................................................................... 43

Press conference ............................................................................................................ 44

Closing remarks/impressions ........................................................................................... 48

Annexes

Annex 1. Participants list

Annex 2. REDD+ Unboxed

Annex 3. REDD+ and EbA

Annex 4. REDD+ Congress Concept

Annex 5. REDD+ and Paris Agreement

Annex 6. Status of REDD+ implementation in the Philippines

Annex 7. Experiences on REDD+ implementation

Annex 8. Southern Leyte Experience

Annex 9. NTFP experience: General Nakar, Quezon

Annex 10. NTFP experience: Palawan

Annex 11. B+WISER LAWIN

Annex 12. GIZ Albay

Annex 13. GIZ Eastern Samar

Annex 14. GIZ Davao Oriental

Annex 15. People’s Survival Fund

Annex 16: People’s Survival Fund Handbook

Annex 17. PENRMO logistical note

Annex 18. Southern Leyte PENRMO Governance

Annex 19. PENRMO learning visit output

Annex 20. FRA – MRV logistical note

Annex 21. FRA Leyte MRV presentation

Annex 22. MRV / RS presentation

Annex 23. FRA learning visit output

Annex 24. Bontoc environmental safeguards logistical note

Annex 25. Bontoc Environmental safeguards presentation

Annex 26. Bontoc CLUP – FLUP Output

Annex 27. YISEDA benefit sharing logistical note

Annex 28. YISEDA benefit sharing presentation

Annex 29. YISEDA benefit sharing learning visit output

Annex 30. Joint REDD+ Declaration

Annex 31. PNRPS Status Update

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Acronyms BMUB Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Building and Nuclear

Safety B+WISER Biodiversity and Watersheds Improved for Stronger Economy and Ecosystem

Resilience CENRO Community Environment and Natural Resources Office C-ENRO City Environment and Natural Resources Office CoDE REDD Community Development through REDD CBFMA Community Based Forest Management Agreement CCC Climate Change Commission CCI Center for Conservation Innovation CLUP Comprehensive Land Use Plan COP Conference of the Parties CSO Civil Society Organization DENR Department of Environment and Natural Resources DILG Department of Interior and Local Government EbA Ecosystem-based Adaptation ESSU Eastern Samar State University FMB Forest Management Bureau FLUP Forest Land Use Plan FRA Forest Resource Assessment FREL Forest Reference Emission Level GIZ Deutsche Gesellschaft fur Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH GHG Green House Gases HLURB Housing Land Use and Regulatory Board ICC Indigenous Cultural Community INDC Intended Nationally Determined Contribution IPs Indigenous Peoples IPRA Indigenous People’s Rights Act IRR Implementing Rules and Regulations LCE Local Chief Executive LGU Local Government Unit MOA Memorandum of Agreement M-ENRO Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office MRV Monitoring, Reporting and Verification NCCAP National Climate Change Action Plan NCIP National Commission on Indigenous Peoples NDC Nationally Determined Contribution NFSCC National Framework Strategy for Climate Change NGO Non-Government Organization NTFP-EP Non-Timber Forest Product-Exchange Program PDP Philippine Development Plan PENRO Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office PNRPS Philippine National REDD Plus Strategy PO People’s Organization PSF People’s Survival Fund PTFCF Philippine Tropical Forest Conservation Foundation, Inc. PTWG Provincial Technical Working Group RA Republic Act SIS Safeguard Information System REDD+ Reducing Emission from Deforestation and forest Degradation YISEDA Young Innovators for Sustainable Economic Development Association

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Executive summary This report highlights the outputs, agreements and next steps reached during the conduct of the “National REDD+ Congress: A Platform for Learning and Exchange” held at Kuting Reef Resort and Hotel, Macrohon, Southern Leyte on September 12-15, 2016. The four-day activity focused on sharing the lessons learned and success stories of the seven sites from the various provinces implementing REDD+ in the Philippines. These are General Nakar in Quezon Province, Quezon in Palawan, Southern Leyte, Kaliwa Watershed, Albay, Eastern Samar, and Davao Oriental.

Exposure trips or learning visits to the REDD+ pilot project site of Southern Leyte were conducted specifically showing the four focus themes vital for the implementation of REDD+ such as: (a) Tenure and Land Use Planning: Forest Land Use Plan – Comprehensive Land Use Plan integration (Municipality of Bontoc); (b) Measurement, Reporting and Verification – Forest Reference Emission Level (Maasin City); (c) Governance of Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Management Office (Provincial Government of Southern Leyte); and (d) benefit sharing (YISEDA, a people’s organization of Maasin City). These four components were showcased for better understanding what the REDD+ have achieved in terms of benefits for forest upland communities, improved livelihoods and enhanced ecosystem services.

The “National REDD+ Congress: A Platform for Learning and Exchange” had been the perfect venue of gathering together all climate change experts, academe, REDD+ practitioners, non-government organizations and national government agencies led by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, political partners and other entities in one setting. Crafting a joint statement or resolution to advance REDD+ in the Philippines had been the major goal of which were able to achieve on the 4th day of the congress through the Joint Provincial Technical Working Group (PTWG) session of the three FMB-GIZ REDD+ Project Sites namely: Davao Oriental, Eastern Samar and Albay.

It was recommended during the joint PTWG meeting that a declaration should be crafted rather than the joint resolution to have a better impact. Thus, the body crafted the “Declaration of Support and Commitment for REDD+ Implementation as a Strategy for Achieving Sustainable Development Goals”. It was also further agreed that the copy of the declaration shall be transmitted to the government authorities such as but not limited to the DENR, Climate Change Commission, National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, Department of the Interior and Local Government, and the office of the President of the Philippines for information and appropriate action.

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Introduction Highlighting convergence and sharing, the four day National REDD+ Congress demonstrated how coming together could aid a nation in its quest to neutralize the threats of deforestation. Some of its beginnings could be traced back to 2010 when the Philippine government adopted the Philippine REDD Plus Strategy (PNRPS), leading to Executive Orders 23, 26 and now 193, giving birth to the National Greening Program. Meanwhile, the Conference of Parties (CoP) in Paris, France moved for the conservation and enhancement of sinks and reservoirs. In this assembly, the country pledged to lessen its emissions to 70% by the year 2030. For this, REDD Plus plays a chief role in the reduction of emissions in the country. REDD Plus at present is already being implemented in eight sites; namely General Nakar in Quezon Province; Quezon in Palawan; Southern Leyte; Northern Sierra Madre; Kaliwa Watershed; Albay; Eastern Samar, and; Davao Oriental.

All seven learning sites present were given the opportunity to discuss their knowledge, experiences, strengths and weaknesses in the implementation of REDD Plus. Moreover, visit to the REDD+ sites within in Southern Leyte made participants recognize and understand the innovations being made and the benefits enjoyed by the forest community members.

The main objectives of the gathering were: To advance REDD+ in the Philippines by issuing a joint statement on creating a functional REDD+ governance structure while advocating on social, governance and environmental safeguards; Share and learn from the experience of the pilot and replication REDD+ projects in the REDD+ measures, and; Establish and /or strengthen REDD+ network or platform for learning by the community of practice for REDD+ implementation. The affair expected to produce the following outputs: Joint statement on advancing REDD+ implementation; input to the PNRPS review; identification of members and re-establishment of REDD+ Community of Practice, and; Success stories on REDD+ implementation.

Annex 1. Participants list

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Marketplace Day 1, 12 September 2016

Ribbon cutting of the market place

Dr. Bernd-Markus Liss and For. Ricardo T. Tomol were joined by participants from the academe, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Local Government Units (LGUs), Peoples Organizations (POs), International Non-Government Organizations (INGOs) and Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) who are involved in REDD+ in the Philippines as they cut the ribbon for the opening of the National REDD+ Congress. Participants witnessed the ribbon cutting and listened to the representatives of seven different Project Areas namely: B+WISER Program; Quezon; Albay; Palawan; Southern Leyte; Eastern Samar, and Davao Oriental. Representatives of the Project Areas gave brief descriptions of their programs/projects.

Each presenter described the projects in one short sentence. The presenter from Eastern Samar Ms. Vicky Mae Gavilan (OIC City ENRO of Borongan City), mentioned that the project was into governance as they prepared a Forest Land Use Plan (FLUP). Forester Emeliana Labata (EMS I, PENRMO, Southern Leyte) claimed that the Super Typhoon Haiyan evaded them due to their lush forests. The presenter from Albay, Forester Ernesto Moleta (GIZ/DFS Junior Advisor) shared their strategy in legitimizing their FLUP, while the presenter from Palawan, Mr. Valbito Samdo (PO President, POELESTAR) believed that capacitating the communities would strengthen the care for forests and environment. Ms. Josephine Rodelas (Senior Associate, LAWIN) showed the B+WISER sites with focus on forest monitoring system and pointed out that the preservation of Philippine Eagles and

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biodiversity in general could save the environment. Finally, Mrs. Conchita Calzado (Former NCIP Commissioner and now Director, Tribal Center for Development) mentioned about the community carbon pool project of REDD+ in ancestral domain site.

Opening remarks

For. Ricardo T. Tomol, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer, DENR PENRO Maasin, Southern Leyte In behalf of Regional Director Leonardo Sibbaluca

For. Ricardo Tomol (PENR Officer, Southern Leyte) expressed his thanks to the organizers for holding this National REDD+ Congress. He said he was happy to be part of this event. Furthermore, he noted that the congress would be a very valuable venue in sharing lessons learned from the different REDD+ practitioners. He stressed that success stories from the different REDD+ stakeholders should be given importance so that it will be replicated in

different regions which do not have any REDD+ program yet. Finally, he challenged everyone to be open in sharing their experiences and success stories so that REDD+ will be enhanced more and will be applicable for everyone.

Welcome remarks Dr. Bernd-Markus Liss, Director and Principal Advisor Climate Program, GIZ

Dr. Liss expressed his joy for being back in Southern Leyte. He explained that in 2010, he, alongside others, was in the province as they implemented the pioneering project of REDD+. He pointed out that the lessons learned during the project were very useful in moving REDD+ forward, not just here in Southern Leyte or Region 8 or to a few areas in the country but to the whole Philippines. He noted that exchanging knowledge, experiences and success stories were valuable tools in coming up with a strong

REDD+ program that could move the policy makers to transform the program into a bill. He finished by encouraging everyone to be active in participating and listening as well as in opening up themselves in sharing their success stories in the three – day Congress.

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Introduction to market place

The marketplace served as an avenue for REDD+ Practitioners/PTWG in showcasing tested innovative concepts, approaches and practices in advancing REDD+ as a strategy. Seven participants joined the marketplace session and have installed their own booth outside the plenary hall - B+WISER Program, Quezon, Albay, Palawan, Southern Leyte, Eastern Samar and Davao Oriental.

Each booth consisted of pictures, tarpaulins, (products/goods) of their REDD+ practices and strategies. Participants were oriented about the mechanics and guidelines of the marketplace session before the start of the program.

After the cutting of the ribbon facilitated by Dr. Bernd Markus Liss and For. Ricardo Tomol, a representative from each of the abovementioned participants were given the opportunity to give a brief introduction along with a one-sentence pitch for their innovations. The aim is to give congress participants from all over the country an idea about their innovations and why their booth must be visited. Dr. Liss and For. Tomol each gave a brief speech about what the participants will gain from the marketplace and from the activities to come in the following days.

After the speeches, the participants entered the marketplace where they moved from one booth to another and were given the opportunity to listen and ask questions as each booth’s representative presented concept of their practices and strategies.

Representative from B+WISER presented their innovative technology LAWIN which will regularly monitor and formulate informed responses to forest and biodiversity threats. The technology’s named LAWIN is taken from the local name of the Philippine hawk, a close

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relative of eagles which also possesses panoramic and telescopic vision. Its ability to see what is happening over its broad area of vision like a satellite monitor yet still detect and focus on the slightest movement of an enemy or prey and the bird’s significance to Philippine culture is what inspired B+WISER to adopt its name to their technology.

LAWIN’s innovative system may be broken down into the following:

a. employs science to formulate measurable conservation targets; b. automates data encoding; c. monitors patrol efforts; d. produces geo-referenced data; and e. enhances coordination between monitoring and law enforcement.

Representative from Quezon, particularly General Nakar presented their approach and strategy which focuses on the enhancement of livelihood opportunities through their non-timber forest products exchange program. One of their successful enterprise, wherein the representative brought samples of the products to their booth, is the selling of forest honey instead of “kaingin” and charcoal making. The best practices includes:

a. Community participation and willingness b. Products developed for enterprise were decided by the community and not by the

proponent c. Trust and confidence to proponent d. Sustained information, education, and communication activities by project

proponent/s and community leaders themselves e. Support from donors including private sector

Albay presented their FLUP in partnership with GIZ National REDD+ System Philippines Project which will protect their sub-watersheds by working together with the LGU and expanding the participation of local communities and barangay residents in the process of consultation.

Palawan presented their POELESTAR, an acronym of the 4 barangays in the municipality of Narra, namely: Poblacion, Elvita, Estrella Village, and Taritien. These 4 barangays share the same watershed, which is a significant chunk of intact forest in the Victoria Anepahan Mountain Range. Their project, like Quezon, is a result of the non-timber forest products exchange program which aims to protect their forests and watersheds. Their success factors include – local ownership, local champions, outreach, transparency and deeper and sustained information, education and communication (IEC) activities.

Being the pilot project site of GIZ REDD+ System, Southern Leyte, has adopted a number of innovations and practices in the establishment of production and forest protection through their BINHI-Arboretum Project whose provincial nursery raises 15,000 seedlings of 19 species of native trees yearly to be distributed to public and private individuals for provincial tree planting. Their province with the support of LGU provided alternative livelihood projects to POs, cash assistance and capacity building training. They have also strengthened forest protection and law enforcement by deploying Bantay Lasang who are provided with uniform,

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equipment and incentives by every municipality for effective monitoring and response to illegal activities.

Representative from Eastern Samar presented their project/strategy which includes capacity-building of partners in the implementation of REDD+, specifically on topics such as ridge-to-reef land use planning, forest land use planning, forest resources assessment methodology, GPS survey and mapping, GIS, and forest and wildlife protection enforcement. Initiatives on forest protection and conservation, and management of forest and forestland is ongoing in Borongan City and Maydolong under GIZ local subsidy contracts.

Finally, Davao Oriental’s representative presented their best practices in implementing REDD+ which includes the following:

a. Formulation of the Provincial and Municipal Forest Land Use Plans b. Adopting Local Policies through the adoption of Provincial Environment Code and its

IRR and relevant Local Conservation Area ordinances of LGUs c. Benefit sharing through livelihood development d. Conservation of forest carbon stocks in watersheds and protected areas and other

functions e.g. on-going preparation of consolidated Critical Habitat of three LGUs and the PLGU.

e. Strengthening and institutionalization of MENROs

After the simultaneous presentation of each representative in their respective booth in the marketplace, the special sessions and learning exchange were held inside the plenary hall.

The success stories can be found in Annexes 8–14.

Sharing and learning sessions during the plenary Seven (7) representatives from different groups shared the lessons they learned from moving around the Market Place. All of them expressed that they were impressed by the LAWIN tool. They found it very useful and applying it in their respective areas would be a big opportunity. Dr. Eduardo Mangaoang, Director of the Regional Climate Change Research & Development Center of Visayas State University (VSU) and For. Moises de la Cruz, PENR Officer, DENR-PENRO Eastern Samar supported the group’s impression. They affirmed that LAWIN could pave a way for stronger environmental conservation and protection. Furthermore, Dr. Mangaoang disclosed that VSU is very open in knowledge sharing, thus, if opportunity arises for them to know the tool, they would be very happy to extend it to everyone. For. Dela Cruz added that LAWIN would be a big help for DENR and REDD+ practitioners in the monitoring and protection of forests and forest resources.

Another presentation much-appreciated was Albay’s strategy in passing their FLUP to DENR for review and approval before having it legitimized by the Sangguniang Bayan. Forester Olivia Melendrez of the Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFP) group pointed out that the strategy helped shorten the time incurred in the review process, likewise eliminating re-legitimization by the Sangguniang Bayan over and over if DENR does not approve it after review and evaluation.

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Special sessions

REDD+ 101 For. Mark de Claro, Development Management Officer II, DENR-FMB

For. De Claro explained that REDD-plus (+) stands for Reducing Emission from Deforestation and Forest Degradation in developing countries and its role for conservation, sustainable management of forests and enhancement of forest carbon stocks. He disclosed that REDD+ is an incentive system and is performance - based at the same time. He pointed out that it was on June 1992 when the Philippines joined the UNFCCC with the aim of taking action in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Through the Climate Change Act, PNRPS was crafted and approved by the DENR. The PNRPS was included in the National Framework Strategy on Climate Change (NFSCC) 2010-2022, which was approved and strengthened on April 28, 2010. In 2011, through the Strategic Actions on Ecological and Environmental Stability, a mandate was established for the implementation of the National REDD+ Strategy. He further stressed that Philippine REDD+ has three (3) phases: readiness; scaling up, and; engagement. He emphasized that the Philippine REDD+ is in the middle phase at present, more advanced than other developing nations implementing REDD+ like Thailand and Myanmar.

The speaker also stressed that deforestation is an important factor in climate change. Accordingly, global forest deforestation rate was at about forty-eight (48) football fields in a minute. A single football field of a destroyed forest is very alarming, the reason why UNFCCC’s international framework major message was to halt deforestation. He noted that REDD+ could be the last chance to help tropical forests. He explained that in saving forests, greenhouse gases emissions are reduced, thus, saving the world. However, this all

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depends on the decisions and commitment of everyone. Lastly, he finished by asking a question – “Is everyone ready for REDD+?”

Annex 2: REDD+ Unboxed

REDD+ and EbA Mr. Shaleh Antonio, Senior Advisor, National REDD+ System Philippines, GIZ

Mr. Antonio discussed REDD+ by defining the acronyms and describing it as a strategy to safeguard the forests and biodiversity, to protect the climate and to enhance livelihoods. Likewise, he said that it is an adaptation and mitigation strategy, too. Afterwards, he defined Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) as a strategy in the right use of biodiversity and ecosystem services to help people to adapt to the adverse effects of climate change. Accordingly, integrating EbA to REDD+ follows very simple steps such as but not limited to vulnerability analysis; participatory workshop; analysis of adaptation interventions and REDD+ Objectives; cost-benefit analysis and impact mapping; and communication of results.

Mr. Antonio stated that the experience of the Southern Leyte Project in integrating EbA to REDD+ has been a fruitful one. All the stakeholders were able to identify challenges and resources, and assess strengths and weaknesses as well as come up with coping strategies. They were also able to identify strategies based on their aspirations. In the end, more POs were capacitated, livelihood were enhanced and communities were made environmentally and socially resilient.

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In conclusion, the discussant pointed out that stakeholder perception on the most important challenges, strategies, costs/benefits, and risks, can provide effective entry points for implementation and can be indicators for monitoring.

Annex 3: REDD+ and EbA

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PTWG sharing and learning exchange Day 2, 13 September 2016

Opening message from DENR RD Leonardo B. Sibbaluca, Regional Director, DENR Region 8

RD Leonardo B. Sibbaluca, Regional Director of DENR-Region 8 welcomed everyone with warm greetings. He thanked the organizer, especially GIZ, headed by Dr. Liss, for crafting and spearheading the congress and for holding it in Southern Leyte. He appreciated it very much because it was under his area of jurisdiction.

RD Sibbaluca shared that the first time he came to know about REDD+ was when he attended the 13th World Forestry Congress at

Bueno Aires, Argentina. He added it was the time that REDD+ was launched globally with a message of combating climate change. He stressed that climate change is everywhere, and the Philippines is not exempted - the perfect example was the Super Typhoon Yolanda or Haiyan that hit Tacloban City, Leyte, with the storm surge causing massive destruction to lives and properties.

RD Sibbaluca reflected that Climate Change was a global phenomenon affecting everyone in the world because as defined by UNFCCC it was anthropogenic in nature; anthropogenic because it was due to man’s utilization of fossil fuels. He stressed that the burning of fossil fuel produced carbon dioxide, which contributed to the increased emission of greenhouse gases. Thus, he encouraged everyone to promote and use renewable and clean sources of energy to reduce or eliminate carbon dioxide emission.

Finally, RD Sibbaluca recounted that so many international organizations like GIZ have been helping the Philippines for a very long time, providing assistance to create change and a sustainable future. Hence, after he acknowledged all participants as climate change experts, he challenged them to do their share in building a climate-resilient Philippines.

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Opening message from GIZ Dr. Bernd-Markus Liss, Director and Principal Advisor Climate Program, GIZ

Dr. Liss expressed his deepest thanks to the organizers of the congress for giving him a chance to return to Kuting Reef, Southern Leyte after some time. He recalled he had been to Southern Leyte first in 2010 because of the REDD+ Pilot Project and then several times for project visits and various events. He also thanked the organizers for crafting the event as it gave him a chance to meet a community of practitioners in Climate Change and REDD+. He likewise

commented that the time RD Sibbaluca was in Buenos Aires, he was also there conducting a scientific training. He said it was that time, in 2009, that he was commissioned to work with REDD+ in the Philippines. Since then, he noted, many things had happened.

Dr. Liss stated that the discussion about REDD+ with the PNRPS and first REDD+ demonstration activities in the Philippines started in 2009, but in fact, measures that could be accounted for REDD+ started already earlier with the CBFM Strategy and forest conservation projects already in the 1990s. He recalled that it was in Bali, Indonesia, that REDD+ was coined with the addition of the following activities: conservation of forest stocks; enhancement of Forest carbon stocks, and; sustainable management of forests. Dr. Liss added that some of the participants who crafted the different activities of REDD+ at the regional level were Filipino participants. He cited that the concept was focused on mitigation but largely also contributes to adaptation, and this was supported by other Asian countries like Vietnam and Indonesia. It put emphasis as well on soil protection, new governance approaches and bringing livelihood to communities living adjacent, around or within the forest lands. He recalled that it was at the World Forestry Congress in 2009 that the financing for mitigation and adaptation measures through REDD+ approaches was largely recognized.

Dr. Liss remarked that he was happy to see familiar faces. He thanked them for their intensive and unwavering support in making the congress possible. He agreed that the congress was very suitable in sharing experiences and lessons learned. He added that it would be an opportunity to convene, network, discuss and exchange views so that REDD+ and climate change practitioners can help each other in facing the challenges in the implementation of the REDD+ Strategy. In conclusion, he encouraged everyone to build effective and intensified collaboration among local provinces and other stakeholders and use all lessons learned and experiences for the advancement or development of REDD+ and the country. Dr. Liss closed his message by welcoming everyone to the 1st day of the congress.

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Messages from partners

Non Timber Forest Products – Exchange Programme For. Olivia Melendrez, Area Coordinator; Member, Community Development through REDD+ (CoDE-REDD)

For. Melendrez stated that CoDE-REDD has come a long way. She said it started with a group of POs, civil society organizations and/or NGOs, who have similar passion for empowering forest-based communities. She said that in 2008, NTFP-EP discussed REDD as well as joined in the development of the PNRPS. From then on they have been active in REDD+ activities. She added that two of the major areas of REDD+ activities were actively undertaken in Quezon

and Palawan.

For. Melendrez stressed that in 2009, the CoDE-REDD started their programme through the three (3) C’s of REDD+: Carbon, Conservation and Community. She commented that it was not easy, but it was worth it, and despite the challenges that they have faced, they would continue looking up at the many opportunities available for REDD+. She believed that the Congress and the updating of the PRNPS would serve as a way for CSOs to continue engaging in REDD+ implementation.

National CBFM PO Federation Mr. Venancio Cueno, President

Mr. Cueno introduced himself as the People’s Organizations Federation president and a member of an indigenous group residing in Zamboanga province. He talked about the Philippines having about 1,884 POs all working hard in responding to the call for a better environment for the future generation. Likewise, as partners in the mitigation program, Mr. Cueno added that they are willing to volunteer in protecting the forests. Through the program of the government like CBFMA

and other local and international organizations, he added that they were able to turn denuded forests into lush forests at the same time earning a living by using alternative livelihood solutions that are not harmful to the environment. Mr. Cueno expressed sadness even though he was enumerating success stories. He found the programs very good, but the

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implementation of the programs / policies was confusing and conflicting. He stressed that until now there was no justice for one of their local forest guard who was shot while protecting the forest.

Mr. Cueno stated that REDD+ is a very good strategy in ensuring sustainable management of the forests, thus, he hopes that there would be clear guidelines and functional advisory bodies that will recognize the IP’s needs and security as well as a transparent financing mechanism that would provide equal opportunity to them.

Tribal Center for Development Ms. Conchita Calzado, Director

Ms. Calzado introduced herself as belonging to a local IP group from General Nakar. She has been an NCIP Commissioner for three years under the administration of Pres. Benigno Simeon Aquino. She disclosed that since she had been with the NCIP, she saw so many conflicting and confusing policy implementations of the different agencies of the country and IP Rights were still not recognized. She cited example on the processing and approval of resource utilization permit (RUP) application for commercial and industrial project is faster compared to

the community-based forest protection and conservation projects. She further added that even in their application for RUP in the REDD+ project, two years has passed without results.

Ms. Calzado stressed that she and her tribe are committed to helping reduce climate change, but they can only do it fully once their rights are recognized and if there is a concrete support and a strong recognition of the indigenous structure in different communities. Likewise, she hopes IPs will be given a chance to participate not only in planning and decision-making but also in the implementation and monitoring of the project. She added that through this REDD+ Congress their voice will be heard and there would be reviews of policies and programs that could bridge gaps and conflicting and confusing policies would be reduced, if not removed.

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Province of Southern Leyte Mr. Jason Calva, Provincial Administrative Officer In behalf of Gov. Damien Mercado

Mr. Jason Calva, Southern Leyte Provincial Administrator, represented Gov. Damien Mercado in the REDD+ Congress. He said that under the administration of Gov. Mercado, environmental protection was a priority because it was the governor’s belief that “Illegal cutting of trees destroys the environment and the future generation is put in jeopardy”.

Mr. Calva pointed out that everyone in Southern Leyte believed that REDD+ is

a God-given program. Everyone learned to love trees, even a child or a simple individual can plant and care for trees. Thus, he said the government was encouraged to venture into massive tree planting activities. Their endeavors were not put in vain because they believed that the trees around Southern Leyte drove Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) away from them last November 8, 2013. Likewise, he stated that Southern Leyte was chosen three (3) times for having efficient and effective in leadership in environmental protection, preservation and management.

In conclusion, Mr. Calva stressed that with a strong leadership and good working relationship with the LGU and everyone, everything will go smoothly. Hence, he thanked GIZ for believing in the leadership of the Gov. Damien Mercado and for choosing Southern Leyte as a REDD+ project site, and a venue for the 1st National REDD+ Congress. He assured GIZ and everyone present that REDD+ will not only be REDD+ at the moment but an everyday affair because they believe that even a small child can contribute for the betterment of the future generation.

Objective and expectation setting For. Peque explained that Southern Leyte was chosen as the congress venue because it was the pilot site for REDD+. He also presented the objectives of the Congress by explaining the necessity of issuing a joint statement on creating a functional REDD+ governance structure while advocating social, governance and environmental safeguards. Likewise, he encouraged the participants to be focused and keen in the sharing of experiences or success stories from the pilot and replication sites of REDD+ measures. Moreover, he motivated the participants by engaging them in the establishment and strengthening of the REDD+ network or platform for learning by the community of practice for REDD+ implementation.

For. Peque read the Declaration of Support and encouraged everyone to show their support by signing the Declaration. He then requested RD Sibbaluca to lead the crowd in signing the declaration. The other speakers and participants followed suit.

Annex 4: REDD+ Congress Concept

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National REDD+ Mechanism in the context of the Paris Agreement and implementation of the NDCs Mr. Rex Barrer, Environment and Climate Change Cluster Head, Ateneo School of Government

Mr. Barrer said that the Philippine REDD+ became part of the Paris Agreement through a simple conversation blossoming into the Philippine National REDD+ Strategy (PNRPS) context. He added that the Philippines do not belong to the top 10 emitters, in fact, it has a very minimal GHG emission. He attributed it to the vast land of tropical forests that the Philippines has. However, Mr. Barrer acknowledged that to be included in the Paris Agreement would mean that there would be recognition of

climate justice and a demand to be at a constant guard to limit the temperature increase at 1.5 Celsius level to reduce the risks and impacts of climate change. Furthermore, he pointed out the importance of recognizing the need to avert, minimize, and address the loss and damage associated with climate change including the role of sustainable development.

He also cited that all the features of the Paris Agreement are agreeable. However, some need to be reviewed again. The commitment on finance is not clear or specific, emissions from international aviation and shipping are not included and there is no mechanism for the HFC phase out. He commended though Article 5 which was very specific in the approach on the reduction of emissions from deforestation and forest degradation.

Mr. Barrer stressed the importance of submitting the Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDC). However, in the Philippines, this needs to be revisited as well as the MRV frameworks and the EO 174 implementation. He also added that the 1st NDC would be crafted with an update every five (5) years and a robust MRV system needs to be created.

Lastly, Mr. Barrer concluded that there should be a continuous implementation of REDD+ projects and activities ensuring the eligibility of result-based payment, recognition of the significance of Philippine forests as carbon sinks and the ability to establish and/or create policies or activities governing REDD+ from the national to the local level.

Annex 5. REDD+ and Paris Agreement

Status of REDD+ implementation, achievements, issues and concerns For. Mark de Claro, REDD+ Focal Person, DENR-FMB

For. Mark de Claro, the National REDD+ focal person presented the status of the REDD+ implementation in the Philippines. His discussion zeroed in on the benefits and the issues regarding the subject. Some of the benefits he cited were the provision of social, environmental and governance benefits for REDD+ in the country. Moreover, For. De Claro declared that “Non-carbon benefits coupled with positive effects of safeguard implementation

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brings in multiple benefits and are readily attainable.” In the area of governance, he stressed that there have been notable contributions of REDD+ especially on utilizing and managing forests in sustainable ways, but some issues still need resolution such as overlapping tenure and jurisdiction.

Some other areas of concern include: lack of funds to continue capacity building programs on REDD+; group of CSOs not in favor of REDD+; existence of “Carbon Dealers”, and; and lack of policy response from relevant National Government Agencies supporting REDD+ implementation affected the momentum from the ground”. He finished his talk by saying “If we save our forests, we save the planet.”

Annex 6. Status of REDD+ implementation in the Philippines

Experiences on REDD+ implementation Atty. Edna Maguigad, Regional Policy and Governance Adviser, Non-Timber Forest Products – Exchange Programme

Atty. Edna Maguigad of Code-REDD discussed Non-Carbon Benefits of REDD+ providing social, environmental and governance benefits, and clear linkage between non-carbon benefits (NCBs) and REDD+ safeguards. She commented that with the positive effects of safeguards implementation, multiple benefits were readily available, and there has been a significant contribution in the sustainable use and management of the forests. However, she

added that in spite of that, there were still inconsistencies and loopholes such as the need for governance mechanism both from the local and national levels.

She further enumerated issues affecting the implementation of REDD+, i.e. the overlapping tenure, overlapping jurisdiction, inconsistency of the local implementation of NCIP, and lack of policy response from relevant National Government Agencies supporting REDD+ implementation among others.

Annex 7. Experiences on REDD+ implementation

Open forum

An open forum was called so that everyone can clarify certain issues. One of the issues raised was the creation of FREL and its status. For. De Claro responded that the DENR was responsible for FREL and they have pilot tested it already in Pangasinan. He added that in pursuing REDD+, the FREL must be established, however, it remains a challenge until now. Another question raised was the role of the LGUs in convincing subordinates to support and participate in the Project. Atty. Maguigad answered by enumerating different policies and programs that the government has, such as the Philippine Climate Change Act, People’s Survival Fund, CCP/NCCAP and others.

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Dr. Liss explained that REDD+ has been here for so long and many policies, programs, and interventions/innovations have been done to make REDD+ easily appreciated, understood and implemented. He challenged the participants to take advantage of the existing instruments. He gave an example of how the HLURB is contributing to build a Climate resilient community through their new comprehensive CLUP guidelines that include also climate and REDD+ aspects, and the 27% increase of funds for the government incurred in the bottom-up approach for mitigation/adaptation in their climate change program. For. De Claro concluded by saying that REDD+ is UN-sanctioned, so it should cast out all doubts.

One question was raised regarding political colors being mixed in the project. For. De Claro affirmed it is necessary because everything in Philippines is politicized. He pointed out the need to designate a national entity for REDD+. He also encouraged everyone to have a collective action to compel policy – makers to act on this matter.

The 4th and 5th questions raised pertained to the streamlining of REDD+ in LGUs and the role of DILG, in addressing problems in the implementation and greed for resources. For. De Claro replied that they had been working with DILG for quite some time now. Likewise, REDD+ has safeguards which will protect practitioners and implementers from greediness in any form of unlawful activities. Atty. Maguigad also responded by emphasizing the importance of IEC across different areas so that everyone understands the implementation and safeguard action. Furthermore, to address greed, graft and corruption, she reminded everyone on why there is a safeguards framework on governance, social and environmental standard.

Lastly, Mr. Shaleh Antonio of the GIZ commented how serious everyone should be about REDD+, and thus, challenged the participants for pushing forward the implementation of REDD+ as strategy for achieving sustainable forest management and climate resilient Philippines.

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Learning exchange of REDD+ sites

Southern Leyte For. Emiliana Labata, PENRMO, PLGU-Southern Leyte

For. Emiliana Labata of the Southern Leyte PENRMO introduced herself as the representative of Dr. Evelyn Abad. She started her presentation by giving the socio-economic background of Southern Leyte and its vulnerability to hazards. She also enumerated the different drivers of forest deforestation and forest degradation as well as the threats on the ground and biodiversity loss.

In the context of innovations, For. Labata discussed the forest conservation activities

done through REDD+ which include the provincial local government unit’s strong environmental protection and conservation initiatives, and the province - led forest resource management activities. They had established a production for forest for firewood, timber and also agroforestry plantations especially in alienable and disposable (A&D) areas, an arboretum in the provincial tree park, provincial forest and mangrove nurseries, livelihood projects and capacity building support for POs and Mt. Nacolod Local Conservation Area Protection.

For. Labata pointed that out all the innovations/initiatives made were geared towards the idea that - the more diverse the area, the more resilient it would be. She believes that “One man, one tree makes a forest”. Thus, she claimed that the green forests that surround Southern Leyte protected them by driving Super Typhoon Yolanda away from the province.

Annex 8. Southern Leyte Experience

General Nakar, Quezon For. Olivia Melendrez, Area Coordinator; Member, Community Development through REDD+ (CoDE-REDD)

For. Melendrez of the NTFP-EP Philippines gave a short background of Gen. Nakar and the Community Carbon Pools Project. She said that the project was created due to the following threats: land-use conversion; kaingin; logging; mining, and; charcoal making. All of these contributed to the 5.6% annual decrease of General Nakar forest cover. Recognizing the need to protect and conserve their forest, For. Melendrez stressed that strengthening the local forest governance was the best move they did.

She cited that the sustainable livelihood had a big impact on the lives of the Indigenous People. It gave them a name and a sense of security. She stressed further that building trust and confidence was not easy and that transparency was the key word in everything they did.

Annex 9. NTFP experience: General Nakar, Quezon

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Quezon, Palawan Mr. Roger Garinga, Executive Director, Institute for the Development of Educational and Ecological Alternatives, Inc. (IDEAS)

Mr. Garinga of IDEAS discussed the experiences the project faced in reducing the threats of deforestation and forest degradation in the municipalities of Narra and Quezon in Palawan. He cited the different innovations they took to have a strong collaboration and enhanced local forest governance, i.e., the enhancement of FLUP and strengthening the security of tenure in the ancestral domain in terms of delineation and titling. He also presented

the results of the forest carbon accounting and biodiversity assessment. Accordingly, they have a very good carbon stock, which they hope would be converted into cash as an incentive when the time comes. Thus, Mr. Garinga gave emphasis on the need to have strong protection initiatives for the environment.

The speaker further stressed that strengthening agro - forestry has been essential for the sustainable livelihood of the local people. Likewise, a good water system has been installed to cater to the 234 households and the 1,945 individuals of the community. He commented that healthy individuals make up healthy and resilient communities. For their social enterprise, six (6) products have been tested in the market already including mats, packaging bags and glass coasters, all of which have been promoted to three (3) established outlets like DTI and DAR Cooperative.

Annex 10. NTFP experience: Palawan

B+WISER Dr. Efrain Laureano, Chief of Party, USAID B+WISER Project

Dr. Efrain Laureano of USAID B+WISER talked on the importance of biodiversity to the balance of eco-system and combating climate change. Thus, biodiversity conservation should be a part in all aspects of forest protection and conservation. He said that Landscape and Wildlife Indicators (LAWIN) is a system for biodiversity monitoring and protection. He added that its objective is to conserve biodiversity in forest areas. It also aims to

reduce forest degradation and deforestation in watersheds and forest areas through monitoring of biodiversity, forest conditions and threats, ecosystem’s response to management interventions and environmental law enforcement.

He also presented one of the highlights of the project since 2015, which was the initial pilot - testing of LAWIN in B+WISER areas. He also said that in March 2016, DENR adopted LAWIN through the joint BMB-FMB bulletin and roll-out trainings were being implemented

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nationwide using the cyber tracker and SMART applications. Moreover, they were able to establish the LAWIN data management at the PENRO and CENRO levels. The LGU support for the implementation was strengthened and the LAWIN data had been utilized for regular PA level reports to support PAMB decision - making.

Annex 11. B+WISER LAWIN

Albay Ms. Maria Soledad Prena, City Environment and Natural Resources Officer, LGU-Ligao, Albay

Ms. Preña of LGU Ligao, Albay described their experiences in the FLUP and REDD+ field implementation starting with the creation of their PTWG. With the strong support of the PTWG, she highlighted some of their innovations that included strong LGU-DENR-GIZ planning and budgeting system and the conduct of orientation and capacity building. Moreover, she cited that a strong teamwork and complementation of all stakeholders have been built and the participation of local

communities and barangay residents in the consultations has been established.

Some of the major success stories according to Ms. Preña, was the formulation of their FLUP which was approved by the DENR last December 28, 2015. She said that they devised a strategy to speed up the approval by bringing the document to DENR for review and evaluation before it was legitimized by the Sangguniang Bayan. Only after then was it returned to DENR for final approval. Another pertained to the different activities relative to the strong commitment and participation of LGUs and local communities in the decision-making process. Ms. Preña also described the sharing mechanism schemes that benefited 19 members of the CBFM Association (MUPAI) from the local subsidy fund and the establishment of 30 agro - forestry plantations within CBFM sites which all have high percentage of survival rate after the final monitoring.

Annex 12. GIZ Albay

Eastern Samar For. Myron Garcia, DENR-PENRO Eastern Samar In behalf of For. Allen Cebuano

For. Garcia of DENR-PENRO Eastern Samar cited that there were three main project partners of GIZ REDD+ in the province of Eastern Samar - Borongan, Maydolong and Eastern Samar State University (ESSU), each one having their fair share of challenges and success stories.

One highlight in the area of governance was the creation of the Provincial Technical Working Group (PTWG), Provincial Forest

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Assistance Team (PFAT) and the MENRO. For the conservation and capacity development, For. Garcia mentioned that the Linal-an Watershed was declared as a critical watershed area, the capability on forest protection was enhanced and the Bantay Gubat forces were deputized. There were various activities such as mentoring of local experts and training on GIS, and the Forest Resource Assessment training conducted in partnership with ESSU, which was expanded beyond the REDD+ focus areas.

He stressed further that these activities produced a strong partnership with the academe, PTWG, LGU Environment Officers and REDD+ Focal Persons. These same personnel became active in their respective designations as they carried out REDD+ programs. For. Garcia concluded that they look forward to a stronger collaboration with all the LGUs of Eastern Samar in reducing Climate Change impacts through REDD+ implementation and research. He also cited the need to encourage LGUs to prepare or enhance their FLUPs in accordance with REDD+ concepts and to have an opportunity to share recommendations and success stories to the local and national levels.

Annex 13. GIZ Eastern Samar

Davao Oriental EnP. Dolores Valdesco, OIC Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer, Province of Davao Oriental

EnP. Dolores Valdesco of PLGU ENRO Davao Oriental noted that REDD+ was a big blessing to them when it arrived last 2014 because their LGU was vulnerable to the different impacts of climate change such as storm surges, landslides, El Niño, La Niña and flooding. She stressed further that major intervention was the formulation of FLUP which served as the basis for determining open areas for rehabilitation, forest protection and conservation areas

such as the critical habitat for the Philippine Eagles and other threatened wildlife species.

She also pointed out that through the implementation of REDD+, the functional PTWG gained experience and has been capacitated and has actively worked hard in assisting and providing guidance to the PLGU in the formulation of Provincial and Municipal Forest Land Use Plans, adoption of Provincial Environment Code, livelihood development (benefit sharing scheme), conservation of carbon stocks in watershed and protected areas and institutionalization of the MENROs. She further stressed that they gained confidence in strongly endorsing REDD+ to be replicated in all LGUs and to the DENR. They plan to have a Joint-Memorandum Circular between DENR, DILG, CCC and NCIP for nationwide implementation of REDD+ and to include the FLUP or REDD+ program as one of the criteria in awarding the “Seal of Good Local Governance” for local government units. She said that they also look forward for the implementation of the Sustainable Natural Resource Management and that IP leaders will be able to organize a credible Provincial Indigenous People Council.

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Finally, EnP. Valdesco pointed out they really need strong support for protected and conservation areas and through the REDD+ project they are confident that they will achieve it.

Annex. 14. GIZ Davao Oriental

Open forum

For. Edgar Peque, the facilitator of the congress, summarized the seven (7) presentations and encouraged everyone to comment or ask for clarifications.

For. Eduardo Mangaoang asked what made REDD+ different from other existing programs. He further commented that everyone described it as good for replication and that maybe DENR could see it not just a strategy but as a model, too.

EnP. Valdesco, on the other hand, said that one of the things that made REDD+ unique from the others based on their experience was that REDD+ gave a sense of ownership to the beneficiaries through its participatory or bottom-up approach and continuous consultations even if the project is over. Atty. Maguigad added that the rights of the IPs were respected, and the voices of the IPs were heard. According to a representative from the Eastern Samar – Mr. Joselito Abrugar, Jr. (Provincial ENRO) further remarked that the REDD+ project approaches and objectives were comprehensive. This was also supplemented by For. Melendrez. She said recipients of the projects were clear with the baseline before they entered into the project. A third party verifier of the safeguards of MRV is present, and horizontal and vertical benefit - sharing agreements were very clear and precise. It means that benefits were not for the leaders only but for everybody. Lastly, For. De Claro pointed out one of the major distinctions too was that it magnifies discussions on the issues of carbon emission and carbon stock.

Another question was raised pertaining to the non-approval of the deputation of the Bantay Gubat of Southern Leyte. According to For. Labata, they had submitted all the requirements but still no approval was granted. A representative from Davao Oriental responded that the bantay gubat applicant has to undergo an examination. An employee from DENR agreed and pointed out that they even had the exam translated into the vernacular so it will be easier for the applicants to understand the questions, and therefore pass the examination. Likewise, they were also assessed in their commitment and sincerity to protect the forest and its resources.

The last question raised was about the LAWIN system, and how it will be replicated for those who were interested. Dr. Laureano responded that they are trying to replicate the project within the next six (6) months all over the Philippines.

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Sustainability opportunities for REDD+ implementation

People’s Survival Fund EnP. Erika Erro, Planning Officer III and PSF Secretariat, Climate Change Commission

EnP. Erika Erro discussed RA 10174 also known as the People’s Survival Fund (PSF) and clearly emphasized how LGUs may have access to it and use it to aid them in financing their projects.

She briefly discussed the functions and responsibilities of the Climate Change Commission in relation to the establishment of the PSF. Because of the need to adapt and mitigate climate change, RA 9729 was amended to

provide a long stream finance for adaptation projects within communities. This gave birth to RA 10174 or the People’s Survival Fund, which has an annual allocation of at least 1 billion pesos that will finance Local Government Units and Local/Community Organizations who wish to access the fund. She also discussed the critical factors to consider in designing climate change adaptation projects that include climatic stimuli, systems affected by these stimuli, and knowing how these systems can adjust to these stimuli. She also pointed out that the Risk and Vulnerability Assessment (RVA) will help shape adaptation projects and that in the absence of it, the RVA may be submitted as a proposal.

She reminded the participants that adaptation and mitigation programs or projects must be modified and altered depending on the actual climate hazards experienced by the community, projected climate scenarios and affected systems. Thus, thorough research and planning must be done for the creation and implementation of these projects so that the fund will not be wasted. Lastly, Ms. Erro cited ways in accessing the fund and the criteria set for LGUs and Local Community Organizations in obtaining it. She also gave examples of programs/projects/activities that may be funded by the PSF. She also explained that forest management activities qualify as an adaptation strategy to help in the reduction of habitat loss and extinction of species, reduction of flooding and landslides and many more. Therefore, REDD+ projects by LGUs and local/community organizations may have access to the PSF.

Annex 15. People’s Survival Fund Annex 16: People’s Survival Fund Handbook

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Philippine Tropical Forest Conservation Foundation, Inc. Atty. Jose Andres Canivel, Executive Director

Atty. Jose Andres Canivel said that their organization is a non-profit organization that provides grants and technical assistance to projects that aim to conserve, maintain or restore tropical forests in the Philippines. He added that the PTFCF works with CSOs in terms of forest protection and conservation, capacity building, research, livelihood and biodiversity conservation. Moreover, he cited that they had supported many community project sites focused on conservation.

He announced that next year they would roll out conservation funds to include support for REDD+ projects. He said that over the years they had many success stories, met challenges and bridged gaps, but they lack market – using the power of communication in delivering the goods, especially that they are still in the process of crafting the forest protection framework. He further stressed that the guidelines for the project proposals will be available by November and in January they would start accepting proposals, review and verify these proposals then the release of funds would be available within four (4) months. He noted that the essence of time was very important as the rate of deforestation is very fast. He further commented that it would be a waste if approval would take a lot of time. He concluded by hinting the types of activities and entities that are eligible to access the PTFCF grants.

Open forum

Ms. Corazon Macabenta of DENR-PENRO Southern Leyte raised a question regarding the application they submitted for a grant to PTFCF. Until now, she has not received any feedback or approval yet. Atty. Canivel responded that they have evaluated it already and they asked for submission of additional requirements which until now have not been complied. Ms. Macabenta also asked EnP. Erro if the PSF can fund their projects. EnP. Erro replied that they can fund as long as it is in line with climate change mitigation and adaptation initiatives.

A follow-up question to EnP. Erro was raised about the perfection of the guidelines of the PSF, considering that PSF has been working hard for a few years now. EnP. Erro mentioned that they had streamlined the process of proposal screening and had been coordinating with HLURB for projects related to CLUP and is still working with DENR in the concept of FLUP-CLUP integration.

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Learning visit and joint PTWG session Day 3, 14 September 2016

Plenary session Group 1: REDD+ governance EnP. Dolores Valdesco, OIC Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer, Province of Davao Oriental

EnP. Valdesco described the group site visit to the PENRMO, Maasin, Southern Leyte as very good. They learned a lot from the orientation as well as the visit to the nursery site and around the Provincial Hall. She noted that some issues and concerns were raised by the group such as how the REDD+ structure at the local level works and; that the financing and adoption of appropriate benefit sharing scheme especially in the IP area were concrete and IP-friendly. She stressed further that the safeguards and issuance of appropriate tenurial instrument should be given priority.

EnP. Valdesco also shared the group’s recommendation. She pointed out that a Declaration should be crafted from the body of the National REDD+ Congress urging national agencies to act on policies such as, but not limited to, the establishment of functional governance structure, MRV/FREL, safeguards, national focal person and the benefit sharing/financing mechanisms. Moreover, she pointed out that the LCEs, Governors and Mayors in REDD+ areas should issue a resolution to the President institutionalizing the REDD+ strategy as well as sustaining the existing resources and up-scaling or exploring other sources to elevate REDD+. In the local level, EnP. Valdesco urged the body to assist LGUs with an existing C/MENRO and to require all municipalities to negotiate partner agencies particularly the DILG and DENR for the inclusion of ENR in the Seal of Good Local Governance. On the other hand, this will make C/MENRO a mandatory in all LGUs.

Annex 17. PENRMO logistical note Annex 18. Southern Leyte PENRMO governance presentation Annex 19. PENRMO learning visit output

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Group 2: MRV/FRA Ms. Vicky Mae Gavilan, City ENRO, LGU Borongan

Ms. Gavilan described the group experiences on the site visit to Maasin City Forest Park, Sitio Danao, Maasin City. She said that they were warmly welcomed by Ms. Marina Palen, the Maasin City Park In-charge. Afterwards Dr. Jurgen Schade gave a short orientation in using the MRV. She noted that the MRV, which refers to measurement, reporting and verification, was an activity associated to the carbon stored and emitted in a forest, including the changes – tree growth or tree removal over time. Thus, her group was required by Dr. Schade to locate the metal rod buried last 2012 at the center of a plot using GPS and coordinates.

Ms. Gavilan pointed out that locating the metal rod was not easy that it required patience, determination and knowledge in using GPS and coordinates. Likewise, knowledge in computing tree volume is essential because it aids in the measurement and verification. She added that upon locating the metal rod at the center of the plot, they were required also to check the measurement of the tree to see if the tree actually grew.

Annex 20. FRA – MRV logistical note Annex 21. FRA Leyte MRV presentation Annex 22. MRV / RS presentation Annex 23. FRA learning visit output

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Group 3: Environmental safeguards (FLUP-CLUP) For. Rolly Tapec, DENR Region 11

For. Rolly Tapec stated that his group visited the Bontoc Mangrove area. Before they met the key informants, they went to the Bontoc Municipal Hall first. They meet the Municipal Planning and Development Coordinator (MPDC) and they were given a short orientation before proceeding to the Mangrove area. For. Tapec noted two things that made the realization of the FLUP possible: 1) there was full participation of relevant stakeholders such as in the creation of TWG, and; 2) safeguards were identified very well. Moreover, it was notable that the LGU was fully capacitated in the use of GIS/GPS, there was also a strong political will in the leadership of the Mayor and the LGU had an action oriented attitude – which meant immediate policy issuance to support implementation of FLUP and integration of FLUP in CLUP.

For. Tapec said that one of the main ingredients of the LGU’s success was the strong value formation – a sense of ownership was instilled in the people’s heart and mind. Furthermore, active participation played a big part, too. He also noted that there was a provision for annual maintenance fund for the established REDD+ plantation and it was replicated in other non-REDD+ barangays. Thus, when the conflict regarding the occupancy of people in the mangrove area arose, they were able to solve it by strengthening the issuance of building permits, implementing the safeguards related to land use planning and fencing the remaining mangrove areas, and declaring it as an MPA or Marine Protected Area.

In closing, For. Tapec commented that the FLUP must be approved by the DENR and copies of it must be distributed to all concerned PENRO/CENROs for the prevention of Irrevocable Permit Applications to protected areas as well as the integration of the FLUP to the CLUP to prevent commercial or residential development in protected areas.

Annex 24. Bontoc environmental safeguards logistical note Annex 25. Bontoc Environmental safeguards presentation Annex 26. Bontoc CLUP – FLUP Output

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Group 4: Benefit sharing and financing Mr. Roger Garinga, Executive Director, Institute for the Development of Educational and Ecological Alternatives, Inc. (IDEAS)

Mr. Roger Garinga expressed enthusiasm that he and his group were able to visit YISEDA in Brgy. Lunas, Maasin, Southern Leyte. He stated that they met two (2) associate officers of the PO who gave a short orientation on the history of YISEDA and its success stories. He added that the site was not just a reforestation site but also an agro - forestry site. He cited that the PO was formed in 1993 and had been awarded with Community-Based Forest Management Agreement (CBFMA) for the management and development of mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla) and gmelina (Gmelina arborea) forest plantations. Due to the strong sense of promoting sustainable use of forests, Mr.Garinga stressed that the POs have been recipients of various projects from DENR-NGP and GIZ.

Mr. Garinga noted that some of the capacities developed by the PO were strong organizational management and highly technical capacities. Thus, establishing ownership and rights is a must so that everyone will have clear information “who owns the carbon and who will receive the benefits”. Moreover, a PO must be strengthened in terms of capacity and capability development. He also stressed that having a tenurial instrument like CBFM is important and a strong partnership and support from other stakeholders and local/international agencies is a must. Mr. Garinga concluded it was no doubt that the PO was successful in all its endeavors.

Annex 27. YISEDA benefit sharing logistical note Annex 28. YISEDA benefit sharing presentation Annex 29. YISEDA benefit sharing learning visit output

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Message of support Board Member Laureano Taya, PLGU-Davao Oriental In behalf of Congresswoman Malanyaon

Hon. Laureano Taya introduced himself as a representative of Congresswoman Corazon N. Malanyaon of the 1st District of Davao Oriental. He cited that after the province was being hit by typhoon Pablo in the year 2014, they realized that Davao Oriental was not exempted from the effects of climate change. Thus, when REDD+ came to the province headed by Dr. Liss, they did not have any second thoughts of embracing it and since then, they never regretted it. He added that through the years they saw the fruits of the partnership.

Mr. Taya mentioned the different accomplishments they had in the span of three (3) years such as: the collaboration with the IP through the Free and Prior Informed Consent (FPIC) process for the REDD+ implementation; defined the carbon stocks and status of forest resources through the FRA survey; crafting of FLUP, and; many others. He also added that with REDD+ they learned many important things in sustainable resource management through capacity enhancement of local area managers and partner IPs. In spite of the success, there are still so many things to be done like replicating REDD+ to all other areas in the locality.

Mr. Taya said that although REDD+ emphasizes reducing emissions, the LGU benefited more, especially on the protection from the impacts of climate change, this is a reason why the “Million Trees Movement” in 2009 were launched as a contribution to climate change adaptation even before National Greening Program were implemented.

In conclusion, Mr. Taya expressed Congresswoman Malanyaon’s appreciation and thanks to the REDD+ Team for helping them in the readiness for REDD+ mechanism, expressing as well the Congresswoman’s full support and in the continuity of the partnership in the actual REDD+ engagement.

Introductory remarks RD Leonardo B. Sibbaluca, Regional Director, DENR Region 8

Regional Director Leonardo Sibbaluca of DENR-RO8, introduced the guest speaker Forester Isabelo Montejo, as a forester from Visayas State University and had been a faculty of the Department of Forestry for 2 years. Afterwards, he moved to the Bureau of Forest Development. He completed his post-graduate studies at the University of the Visayas and had been a part-time professor of the Visayas State University. At the BFD, he became a Senior Forester and was promoted to CENRO and then PENRO. He was assigned to one of the most delicate assignments in the country, as a PENRO in Agusan Del Norte. Later on, he became an RTD for Forestry in Cebu. In 2012, he was promoted as RED for Region 7. Just this year, in June 2016, he was designated as an Undersecretary for Field Operations.

Finally, after introducing the Guest Speaker, RD Sibbaluca encouraged everyone especially the young people not to lose hope in pursuing one’s dreams. He said your dreams will come true if it is your destiny, and with hard work, your superiors will notice you and one day will acknowledge your efforts.

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Keynote message For. Isabelo R. Montejo, Undersecretary for Field Operations, DENR

Usec. Montejo expressed his joy in being away from Manila and renewing friendships in Baybay, Leyte when he gave a message to DENR employees undergoing training for LAWIN. He was also happy to join the congress, as he considered it important to hear and listen to the different issues and concerns raised by participants as they shared their experiences in REDD+ implementation. He added that the output

of the groups would be his input in crafting strategies that would help deliver the implementation of REDD+ and other DENR programs which will be effective and productive to everyone.

Usec. Montejo stressed the importance of building collaboration and integration at the community level and other stakeholders. He pointed out that REDD+ will have no meaning if stakeholders will say that it belongs to GIZ or DENR. Sitting down with stakeholders and implementers would give them that feeling of ownership and belongingness, thus, it would compel them to do the tasks required beyond what is expected, assuring that they would be successful. He also pointed out that good things can happen, if everyone helped each other.

Moreover, Usec. Montejo commented that the signing of the Declaration of Support should not stay on the board only. Rather, the best thing to do should be to mainstream it to everyday activities. Furthermore, he stressed that integrating, transforming, simplifying or modifying the policies and programs, making it easy for the stakeholders or community, is good. As much as possible, what is best for the people should be addressed the soonest possible time.

Usec. Montejo declared that with all the achievements and lessons learned in REDD+, success and change are just within reach. Hence, he challenged and at the same time invited everyone to create a policy and submit it to DENR. He said he would be happy to hear, discuss and talk about it, for it is his belief that working together can make things happen.

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Joint PTWG session Chairperson: PENRO Chamberlain Babiera, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer, DENR PENRO Davao Oriental

A joint PTWG of the 3 provinces (Davao Oriental, Eastern Samar and Albay) of the National REDD+ System Philippines Project were called to sit down together to present their respective resolutions wherein all their supplications written on it. It was motioned to come up with a Joint Resolution airing all concerns of the 3 provinces for endorsement to higher authorities of the different government agencies concerned with REDD+. Everyone agreed to craft a Joint Resolution. In conclusion, a presentation of the draft Joint Resolution will be presented on the next day.

In the absence of RD Sibbaluca, PENRO Chamberlain Babiera of DENR-PENRO Davao Oriental stood as the chairperson in the Joint PTWG Session, per authority given to him by RD Sibbaluca. PENRO Babiera called to order the joint session for the three (3) provinces of the REDD+ and gave the floor to For. Edgar Peque of ESSU-CEGCCA to present the issues and challenges gathered during the past two (2) days of plenary discussion.

PENRO Babiera opened the session by asking everyone if there would be other matters to be tackled aside from the topics listed on the program. Mr. Joselito Abrugar, Sr. asked if it was alright to add other matters. It was motioned and seconded. Again Mr. Joselito Abrugar, Sr., motioned to pass a resolution addressed to the Congress and all concerned government agencies that PENRO/MENRO/CENRO positions be adapted in all provinces, municipalities and cities as mandatory. It was motioned and seconded.

Due to limited time, Mr. Antonio, Senior Adviser of National REDD+ System, GIZ, requested if it was possible for the audience to be part of the discussion. PENRO Babiera gave consent by not strictly following the procedural rules of the meeting. Thus, Mr. Antonio thanked the

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chairperson and disclosed that it came to his knowledge that the three (3) PTWGs have crafted resolutions with important issues and concerns pertaining to the implementation and advancement of REDD+ PTWG. He suggested that it would be better to share this to everyone for discussion and appreciation of the other members of the congress. The chair was amenable to the suggestion of Mr. Antonio, thus, it was motioned and seconded.

Thereafter, Mr. Abrugar of Eastern Samar presented their resolution. For. Valdesco commented that the Davao Oriental resolution was almost the same but they had few modifications such as the LGUs should be the frontline agencies in the formulation, planning and implementation of climate change action plans in their respective areas. She pointed out that the resolution is more LGU-focused since the governance (execution) falls on the LGU. Mr. Abrugar suggested that the two (2) resolutions be reconciled, especially the salient features so they would have a uniform resolution.

For. Florante Sabejon of the National REDD+ System motioned to move the joining of all resolutions into one (1). He also suggested to give the audience a chance to share their views, concerns and interests and come up with a meaningful agreement. It was motioned and seconded. However, whatever came, the decisions out would still fall on the shoulders of the PTWG.

Mr. Roger Garinga of IDEAS expressed support, shared sentiments and requested to be a part of the joined resolutions. He also commented that the signing of the Declaration of Support seems not enough, he suggested a more comprehensive statement or resolution be drafted. With this, PENRO Babiera responded that names or organizations present in the room be mentioned in the preparatory statement. Moreover, Mr. Antonio reiterated the first (1st) recommendation of Group 1 in the site visit to craft a Declaration. He saw the congress as a venue for all the practitioners and PTWG to work as one body. For. Valdesco supported Mr. Antonio by declaring it will no longer be a one Declaration of Southern Leyte or Davao Oriental but the Declaration of the body in the room. PENRO Babiera noted that since it is fair that everybody was present, he asked for a motion to move the crafting of one declaration which will be adopted, signed by everybody present and be submitted to the higher authorities. Before a motion was raised, Mr. Abrugar suggested that a draft of the Declaration be prepared immediately so that everyone present can sign it before going back to their respected places. A representative of PTWG Albay commented that it should be three resolutions and not just the two. Thus, PENRO Babiera corrected it as a joint resolution of the three (3) resolutions from the three (3) REDD+ project sites. He also commented that the draft be prepared by For. Valdesco and Atty. Maguigad with the assistance from the GIZ REDD+ advisors and the DENR personnel.

For. Sabejon recapped the discussion by suggesting that a draft of the Declaration merging from the three (3) resolutions be prepared and passed, citing the same contents. Likewise, the signatures should be taken from the attendance of Day 1 until the last day of the congress and the copies of three (3) resolutions be attached as supporting documents. It was moved and seconded.

Lastly, Dr. Liss asked if the delegation of responsibility and authority be integrated into the Declaration. PENRO Babiera responded that since the authority comes from the DENR, another resolution should be prepared for it. However, for the Declaration, it should substantially focus on REDD+. He also pointed out that in the crafting of the resolution,

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each PTWG will have representative. Having no other business to discuss, the meeting was adjourned.

Closing remarks EnP. Dolores Valdesco, OIC Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer, Province of Davao Oriental

For. Valdesco noted that the day has been a fruitful day and a milestone has been achieved. The decision to merge the three (3) resolutions has been remarkable, she added. The merger strengthened the voices of everyone, and will also ensure that everyone’s voice will be heard at the higher level. She believed that even if the project would end next year, the future is bright because REDD+ will not end.

For. Valdesco also said that with the crafting of the joint resolution, their concerns have broadened as well, and are no longer fragmented ideas. With the LGUs being in the frontline, she hopes that whatever the outcome of their decision, they will receive all the benefits. She recognized that REDD+ is a very big responsibility for the LGU but because everyone made a decision, she knows they can do it. She hopes this meeting and congress will not be the end but rather a new beginning for a stronger decision, collaboration and partnership with everybody, including the LGUs and DENR. She concluded REDD+ belonged to everyone.

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REDD+ Congress and consultations with REDD+ partners Day 4, 15 September 2016

Welcome message For. Nilda S. Patiga, Section Chief, DENR-FMB In behalf of Dir. Ricardo Calderon

For. Patiga of DENR-Environmental Forestry Section extended Director Calderon’s warm welcome to everyone and appreciation for their attendance to the 1st National REDD+ Congress. She stressed that under the Rational Plan, a new structure has been created including the Environmental Forestry Section wherein the REDD+ unit has been mainstreamed. Due to lack of technical capacities, the progress of REDD+ is slow, but it is

nothing to worry about because in the timeline of DENR it is not delayed as it is scheduled to be done in 2017.

For. Patiga expressed that GIZ has been a big help in providing technical assistance as well as direct assistance (a financial agreement) to the FMB, thus, she thanked GIZ thru Dr. Liss. She pointed out that the government (DENR) cannot do REDD+ alone that is why everybody needs to work together. She also thanked GIZ for organizing the 1st National Congress, as it became a venue for updating PNRPS, which is a big advantage to them as it is part of the financial agreement component.

She likewise cited that the systems needed for the advancement of REDD+ is already in a document, however, it has to be run as a program for it to be a system. With positivity, she said it will happen soon. In conclusion, she encouraged everyone to look at REDD+ as a strategy to attain sustainable development – not for climate change only. She thanked everyone for the participation and willingness to be a part of REDD+ advancement.

Message from the GIZ National REDD+ System Philippines Project Dr. Bernd-Markus Liss, Director and Principal Advisor Climate Program, GIZ

Dr. Liss, the principal advisor of GIZ National REDD+ System Philippines, expressed his thanks to everyone for actively participating in the three - day congress. He expressed his gratitude for the partnership they had with the DENR, the other government agencies and development partners, LGUs and local communities, including indigenous groups. He pointed out that today was the culmination of activities – all discussions, sharing of lessons

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learned and joint actions done and the results of said actions by crafting a Declaration to promote REDD+ for sustainable development and as a strategy.

Dr. Liss noted that the speech of Usec. Montejo was very inspirational, and it was encouraging to know that changes are happening and inevitable. He added that some aspects are not changing per se because they have been existing in joint circulars, memorandum orders or policies of the government as they strive to engage the local communities through participatory approach in the implementation of sustainable management in the forest development and land development. He also stressed that locally and internationally, change has been happening through the convergence of different countries in the aim of reducing global greenhouse gas emissions. Lately, China and US have joined in too, thus, he is confident that in the next conference of parties, all countries will join together not just for reducing GHG emission but also adaptation, on the issue of disaster, climate - borne disaster and risk mitigation and many more.

Furthermore, Dr. Liss also mentioned that Usec. Montejo stated that the forestry sector could contribute 40% to greenhouse emission reduction in the Philippines. He said it would be a substantial contribution and at the same time a challenge to everyone to make it happen. Change must come from below because forestry is an activity and forest management must happen in the field. Change is possible, Dr. Liss believes. He added that all the successes and achievements must be joined, and with the partnership of DENR, LGUs, communities and everyone in promoting the implementation of PNRPS, REDD+ as instrument not only for climate and forest protection but also for community livelihood. Dr. Liss concluded, that by 2017, readiness in Philippines can be achieved if all actors work together.

Presentation of the outputs, agreements and the next steps of the PTWG sharing and learning exchange Dr. Edmundo A. Campoto, President, Eastern Samar State University

Dr. Campoto, the University President of Eastern Samar State University gave the synthesis of the three (3) day congress by defining the acronym of REDD+. Likewise he described the attributes of REDD+ and how it started in the Philippines and the different project sites of REDD+ in Philippines funded by GIZ and other international organizations. Dr. Campoto emphasized that based on the discussion of the status of REDD+ implementation, REDD+ is in the middle stage. Thus, he saw

the need to use the congress as a way for all practitioners to work together and discuss the best thing to be done for the advancement of REDD+.

He also showed the different lessons learned during the learning site visit to the four (4) different sites covering the areas of governance, MRV/FRA, environmental safeguards and benefit sharing and financing schemes. Citing the words of wisdom of Usec. Montejo, Dr. Campoto said, “With all the environmental problems we are facing right now, I know that we

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can overcome it, if we all work together…together we can make things happen!”. Dr. Campoto noted that the congress opened up everyone’s mind, making participants express their ideas and aspirations as to what they want to happen to REDD+. Hence, on the Joint PTWG Meeting, a caucus was formed and Joint Statement or Declaration was crafted, with the hope of bringing it to the higher authorities for proper action.

Dr. Campoto ended his presentation by encouraging everyone to be positive and pursue their highest dreams and aspirations by working together as one.

Presentation of the joint statement Chairperson: PENRO Chamberlain Babiera, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer, DENR PENRO Davao Oriental

PENRO Babiera felt honored to present the crafted joint Declaration. He read the title and the 1st paragraph, afterwards asked the audience for questions or comments about it. No one commented, so he continued reading until he reached item #2. He commented the inclusion of CSOs or NGOs as there were NGOs who had strong collaborations with everyone, it would encompass everybody’s endeavor.

Atty. Edna Maguigad commented that most of the words and items in the Joint Statement came from the three (3) resolutions. She recognized that the CSOs/NGOs were there to support but since the aim is to move into full implementations, the focus is the government. CSOs/NGOs would be phased out after the readiness stage. Dr. Liss said that he recognized they were the implementers of REDD+ on the ground, however, he added that it is a stakeholders approach, thus he suggested to add “In partnership with civil society, academe, private sectors, lower communities and indigenous people”.

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In item #3 a suggestion was raised to include the creation of MENRO/CENRO as a requirement in the awarding of the Seal of Good Local Governance. This however, raised a reaction that it would be quiet difficult because there is a prohibition by law (local government code) that an LGU should not exceed certain percentage of personal services, the reason why they found it hard to create a MENRO. Atty. Edna Maguigad also said that before, there was a national resolution concerning it, however, it needed a congressional act to be amended, and the process would take some time. She pointed out that most activities on the list require immediate action. Dr. Liss commented that it would be better leave the draft as it was, otherwise, for LGUs who do have resources, it would mean making the process long. Likewise, another participant suggested not include it anymore as it would unfair for those who belonged to the 4th or 5th municipalities who do not have any resources.

Another participant commented that paragraph seven (7) was only a clause. To make it a one (1) complete sentence, it was suggested that the phrase with the word “finally” be deleted.

PENRO Babiera asked regarding the attendance. Atty. Maguigad replied that it was already in the opening line (1st paragraph). She explained that it would better to move the words “National REDD+ Congress” as many participants had already left but had signed up the document.

PENRO Babiera concluded the presentation by asking for final comments. Afterwards he counted from 1 to 3 and then declared the Joint Declaration as approved.

Annex 30. Joint REDD+ Declaration

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Message of support Diego Creedo, Office of Congressman Mercado, Lone District of Southern Leyte In behalf of Congressman Roger Mercado

Mr. Creedo introduced himself as the alter ego of Congressman Mercado. He expressed that the Congressman has other important matters to attend to, the reason why he was sent as the Congressman’s representative. He expressed his thanks and appreciation for the initiative of Dr. Liss and his team in holding this congress and for giving importance to the environment. He also thanked Dr. Campoto of ESSU, all LGUs, participants coming from Eastern Samar,

Davao Oriental, Albay, Palawan, Quezon Province, and the representatives of DENR-Central Office and Southern Leyte.

Mr. Creedo disclosed that Congressman Mercado was very thankful for this activity because he is devoted in pursuing the protection of the environment. He added that during the birthday of Congressman Mercado, he called for volunteers to plant more than ten thousand (10,000) indigenous trees in the denuded area (caused by kaingeneros) at the birth place of Pres. Duterte. Moreover, since he became a Congressman, he has ordered the planting of about 1.6 million trees. For him, Mother Earth, without trees, is a dead earth. People will suffer and maybe only a few will survive.

With the aim of having a clean environment, Congressman Mercado strived to stop illegal quarrying, illegal cutting, illegal fishing and illegal drugs around the province. In spite of great efforts, there are still some who have not stopped, but preferred to pursue the wrong path.

Mr. Creedo stated that Congressman Mercado knows that he cannot do all the work alone in achieving a sustainable environment. He knew taking care of the environment is a big responsibility and everybody’s responsibility. Delaying it may be too late, he said. Thus, he hopes Southern Leyte may be given a support in the battle of helping Mother Earth regain her old glory for everyone, not just today but also for the future generation.

In closing, Mr. Creedo quoted the words of Congressman Mercado, “We are here to help and protect the next generation.”

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Presentation of the framework for updating the PNRPS review and preliminary results For. Edmund Rico, Executive Director, Center for Conservation Innovation, Inc.

For. Rico explained that the updating of the Philippine National REDD+ Strategy (PNRPS) is an initiative of the Forest Management Bureau (FMB) and GIZ in collaboration with the CCI. To explain further, he reminisced by showing pictures of their early work when REDD+ was still introduced in the country and working on its pilot project sites. He also showed his first slide

which was about the project’s framework. The framework showed a diagram which represented recent developments in the global and national landscape (i.e. UNFCCC decisions or updates, Philippine policies and programs, REDD+ sites, studies on REDD+, and the like). According to him, all the recent developments were continually documented and compiled for annotations.

For. Rico discussed how the process of updating the PNRPS was done for almost three years. He has also showed in some of his slides the work plan and the method of data collection of their TWG - the desktop research where they collected COP decisions, related national laws/policies, REDD+ studies in demonstration sites, and the like. Secondly, a survey questionnaire which elicited information from stakeholders about REDD+ projects implemented and recommended were done. The final method was the consultation with stakeholders which included visits to the REDD+ sites.

For. Rico also included in the discussion the scope and limitations of the PNRPS update. He said that the scope of the update include recent developments or findings which occurred from October 2010 to June 2016 to give sufficient time to collect and review the developments during the project period. Moreover, he noted that studies, documents and the participants’ responses presented during the National REDD+ Congress will also be included. In terms of limitations, For. Rico included the dependability on the availability of documents or answers provided in surveys and that the review and updating will only focus on annotating these developments. Due to resource constraints, he stressed that the data collection will be in the form of a survey questionnaire which may be conducted online or through face-to-face interviews and site visit interviews which may be conducted by FMB.

For. Rico also stated that in presenting the annotations of the PNRPS document, the vision and mission statements and the principles in its governance must be emphasized at the same time be revised to be in line with the long-term vision of DENR FMB. The annotations cover different components: enabling policy; governance; research and development; MRV; capacity building and development strategy, and; sustainable financing. Finally, before For. Rico ended his discussion, he showed the highlights of Indonesia and Ghana’s REDD+ Strategy which proved to be effective and fruitful. He believed that these strategies can serve as sources for ideas or inspiration for PNRPS.

Annex 31. PNRPS Status Update

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Press conference Panelists: Dr. Bernd-Markus Liss, Dr. Edmundo A. Campoto, For. Mark de Claro, Mr. Venancio Cueno, Ms. Conchita Calzado, For. Olivia Melendrez

The Press Conference started at 12:18 noon and ended at 1:09 in the afternoon. Five (5) dignitaries were present representing GIZ, ESSU, DENR-FMB, PO and IP. The media personnel present came from the PIA Maasin, DYD radio station and the Information Officer from the Office of Congressman Roger Mercado. Before the question and answer portion, Dr. Liss presented the role of REDD+, Atty. De Claro gave the summary of Agreements and Dr. Campoto presented the overview of REDD+.

Q&A

The following questions were asked to Ms. Conchita Calzado:

Q. There are IPs from Surigao who came to Southern Leyte claiming 300 hectares of land. Is there really a land declared for the IPs in Southern Leyte?

A. According to the Provincial Office of Southern Leyte, there is no IP, only migrants. Some of the migrants claimed to be IPs because of the benefits they could get.

I honestly am not sure about these IP claims. I can only say I can refer the issue to the NCIP. I can help facilitate the visit to NCIP for these IPs to shed light on this issue. As far as the IP is concerned, it is important that there is a genealogy to support such claim.

Q. What can the Southern Leyte government do to solve this problem of IP?

A. This issue should be forwarded to NCIP, so that they can take appropriate action. And as I have said earlier, I can help in facilitating the visit to NCIP.

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Mr. Venancio Cueno was asked on the participation of POs in REDD+, to wit:

Q. Can you tell us how the GIZ supports the sustainability of the REDD+ program after the project ended?

A. The program by itself is sustainable, because the tenurial instrument issued by the CBFMA is valid for 25 year and renewable for another 25 years. Likewise, whenever there are open areas, we plant it with forest trees, fruit trees and agricultural crops for the POs source of additional income.

Dr. Bernd – Markus was asked regarding the REDD+, to wit:

Q. What are the roles of the developed countries on the project?

A. Developed countries assist developing countries in environmental protection. As GIZ or German International Cooperation started in 2008 collaborating with DENR.

Q. May we know the indicators of the success of REDD+ implementation?

A. REDD+ has established 2,187 hectares for agro-forestry plantations involving more than 5,000 actors in training, 3,000 plus households which resulted to an increased income, better housing, better equipment and better environment.

Q. How did LGU got involved?

A. We involved the LGU by explaining to them the concept of REDD+, worked with the people, established a MOA with them where both parties have roles to play.

Q. Can you tell us the challenges and/or issues encountered?

A. The REDD+ framework which is the key instrument is not yet complete.

There is an issue of poverty – people do not have other choices but to go to the forest for a living.

Every 3 years, the Philippines has an election – this would mean changing of CEOs/LCEs most of the time and an issue in the continuity of the project is a big challenge. However, the good thing though, it is the local community who will implement REDD+ for sustainable forest management. But still, support coming from CEOs/LCEs is a big thing.

For. Mark De Claro was asked with the following questions:

Q. How do LGUs support DENR or vice versa and the project?

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A. Whatever happens DENR will continue to engage with the LGUs. Mainstreaming the programs is the best thing to do as this will show strong support to the project.

As of now, about 500 million pesos of funds have been given to Philippines and 100 million of it was given to the LGUs. Through it, farmers are able to increase their earnings. Offices have been established, and forest initiatives are being implemented. LGUs and local communities are encouraged to avail of other financial sources like the People’s Survival Fund.

Q. Can DENR provide drone to the LGUs?

A. Drone technology is included in the Forest Protection Plan, the technology is now being studied and is intended to be adapted soon. It would be another breakthrough for us in DENR as it offers quick, easy and cost-effective aerial imagery that would help us in decision-making.

A question was raised to Dr. Edmundo Campoto being a representative of the academe:

Q. Can you tell us the role of the academe in REDD+?

A. The academe complements the efforts of LGUs, providing capacity buildings activities, conducting trainings such QGIS Trainings to LGU planners and research that would be beneficial to the REDD+ implementation.

A question was raised to For. Olivia Melendrez, having worked with the local communities in the CoDE REDD (NTFP and FFI):

Q. Please tell us the role of REDD+ in community level.

A. CoDE REDD is pro-community and pro-conservation group of forest based communities and CSOs. We advocate REDD+ programs and policies also. Since we believe that no man is an island, forest - based communities and CSOs help each other in finding ways or solutions to respond to climate change.

In going down to the community level, we explore possible benefits for the communities in terms of livelihood, conservation and community development projects that is in consonance with REDD+.

Some activities we facilitated involved series of consultations to get enough inputs from stakeholders in the forest for sustainable forest management.

Q. What can you advise to the rapid charcoal making and kaingin (slash and burn farming) problems?

A. Prepare forest zoning, meaning divide the forest for protection and conservation and for production, wherein forest communities can develop it as a source of income.

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The final question was addressed to Dr. Liss:

Q. While the stakeholders are waiting for the cash incentive, what can GIZ do to ensure the sustainability of the project?

A. Through providing incentives and financial support the project helped to build sustainable livelihoods, based on forest rehabilitation and fruit tree cultivation that can generate income for local communities. It is of key importance that first of all there is secure land tenure as a basis for investment, e.g. by CBFMAs, and that benefits and finances are fairly distributed. The local level has good initiatives in support of the project. In sustaining the project we need to capacitate the local governments and communities, an example of which is training the farmers on how to sustainably manage the land and harvest timber.

Actors should help each other and work together because the international community is ready to help.

Without further ado, the press conference ended with the media satisfied to hear all the positive responses and commitments of the dignitaries in pursuing the advancement of REDD+.

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Closing remarks/impressions Institute for the Development of Educational and Ecological Alternatives, Inc. (IDEAS) Mr. Roger Garinga, Executive Director

Mr. Garinga expressed his thankfulness to GIZ for initiating the congress and the time to share what the Palawan group had been doing. He expressed this appreciation of the way forward also. He said he hope it will be push through; and he hope everyone would be able to reach what they are aspiring, so that one day they will see the fruits of their labor.

Philippine Eagle Foundation, Inc. Ms. Jerolyn Egento

The representative of Phil. Eagle Foundation expressed his sincerity of having a partnership with GIZ and NCIP, and the privilege to attend the congress. The representative found the congress full of insightful ideas especially in bringing their activities on the ground to higher level and higher authorities. The representative found the congress overwhelming and very thankful that REDD+ gave them an opportunity to be part of such event.

LGU-Borongan, Eastern Samar Mr. Daniel Andea

As a representative from Eastern Samar, he was very thankful to be invited in the congress. He noted that there were many learnings he got through the experiences of other participants. It gave him an idea how he could help Eastern Samar progress towards the implementation of its environmental priorities, at the same time his group continue to do their work in the project.

YISEDA, Southern Leyte Mr. Leo Vanzuela

Mr. Vanzuela said that in behalf of Southern Leyte, he thanked GIZ for choosing the venue of the project as a place for learning site visit and for recognizing the efforts and potentials of the site. The visitation of the different groups of people to the project site opened their eyes that their efforts are not in vain. He also thanked the organizers for allowing them to hear Usec. Montejo’s message. It touched their hearts and gave them hope to continue pursuing their utmost dream for the betterment of the forests, environment and future generation.

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