BAGUIO CITY — One of the most effective ways to lessen the impacts of climate change is by building strong, well-prepared communities. That’s the focus of the Department of Social Welfare and Development Regional Field Office (DSWD-RFO) Cordillera this year.
According to the agency, these efforts are being integrated across multiple programs to help local communities adapt to environmental changes.
A key part of this strategy is the “Pagkilos: Philippine Community Resilience Project,” launched in November 2025 by DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian. Implemented through the Kalahi-CIDSS program, it engages residents directly in local resilience planning.
DSWD Cordillera reports that the program currently covers 10 municipalities and 135 barangays, with a total budget of P186 million. Other ongoing initiatives include “Kapangyarihan at Kaunlaran sa Barangay — Community Driven Development,” which aims to finish six sub-projects according to technical schedules.
The agency has also set aside P4.35 million for a Cash for Work program benefiting 370 college students and graduates, and P2.35 million for 500 persons with disabilities under a similar scheme.
