The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), in partnership with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), formally launched the US$10-million Adaptation Fund project, “Harnessing the Water-Energy-Food Nexus to Address and Adapt to Climate Change Impacts in Tawi-Tawi,” marking a major step in advancing climate resilience and sustainable development in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

The four-year initiative will deliver integrated interventions in water security, renewable energy, sanitation, and climate-resilient livelihoods, directly benefiting more than 71,000 residents in the seaweed-farming communities of Sitangkai and Sibutu.

During the ceremonial launch and project agreement signing, MinDA Chairperson Secretary Leo Tereso A. Magno emphasized that the project demonstrates the government’s commitment to ensuring that climate adaptation investments reach geographically isolated and vulnerable communities in Mindanao.

“For the people of Sibutu and Sitangkai, water security is not simply about infrastructure. It is about protecting health, strengthening livelihoods, empowering families, sustaining agriculture and fisheries, and building communities that can withstand the growing impacts of climate change,” Magno said.

The project agreement was signed by Secretary Magno and UNIDO Country Representative Teddy Monroy, reaffirming the partnership between the Philippine government and international development institutions in promoting sustainable, climate-resilient growth in Mindanao.

Representing the Office of the President, Special Assistant to the President Antonio Lagdameo Jr. underscored the national government’s continuing support for development initiatives that strengthen peace, resilience, and economic opportunities in BARMM.

He noted that investments in climate adaptation contribute to expanding access to essential services, enhancing local economies, and improving the quality of life in island communities while complementing the government’s broader peace and development agenda.

The initiative also aligns with the priorities outlined by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to promote sustainable infrastructure, climate resilience, and inclusive economic development across the country. The project reinforces MinDA’s role in mobilizing strategic partnerships and climate financing to support long-term development priorities in Mindanao, while advancing integrated solutions that address the interconnected challenges of water, energy, food security, and climate change. #BuildingABetterMindanao