Climate resilience, food security efforts expand through Project LAWA-BINHI

By Nimfa L. Estrellado Governor Angelina Tan meets with representatives of the Department of Social Welfare and Development Region IV-A to d...

By Nimfa L. Estrellado

Governor Angelina Tan meets with representatives of the Department of Social Welfare and Development Region IV-A to discuss the implementation of Project LAWA-BINHI and climate adaptation programs in Quezon. (Quezon PIO)

LUCENA CITY, Quezon - Communities vulnerable to drought may soon receive additional livelihood and food security support through the expanded implementation of Project LAWA-BINHI. Discussions between the provincial government and the Department of Social Welfare and Development Region IV-A centered on assistance for families affected by dry weather and climate change.

The initiative seeks to help residents improve food production while providing temporary sources of income during periods of drought. Several farming communities in the province continue to experience water shortages and lower agricultural output due to prolonged dry conditions.



Many parts of the country have recorded high temperatures and reduced rainfall in recent months because of El Niño and changing weather patterns. Farmers remain among the hardest hit as crop production and income decline during extended dry spells.

The provincial government said the program aims to help communities strengthen food security while preparing residents for the effects of climate change and extreme weather conditions. Support for vulnerable families is also expected through temporary livelihood opportunities tied to community-based projects.

Project LAWA-BINHI is a flagship program of the DSWD that aims to address food insecurity, poverty, and the growing effects of climate change in vulnerable communities nationwide. The initiative combines short-term employment opportunities with community-based projects focused on improving water access and food production.

Under Project LAWA, communities may develop water harvesting systems, irrigation facilities, and rehabilitation projects for damaged or limited water sources in drought-affected areas. BINHI, meanwhile, encourages food production through household and community vegetable gardens as well as farming practices suited for changing weather conditions.

Residents joining the program may take part in land preparation, planting, communal gardening, waterway clearing, soil protection, and repair of small water facilities. Beneficiaries may also receive cash-for-work and cash-for-training assistance while participating in the projects.

The provincial government also emphasized the importance of properly identifying beneficiaries to ensure assistance reaches families most affected by drought and economic hardship. Close coordination with local communities is expected to help improve the implementation of the program.

Preparations for the implementation of the program in different municipalities are expected to continue in the coming months through coordination between the province and the DSWD. Local governments are also expected to identify communities that will benefit from water access and food production projects.