Manila, Philippines— The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), together with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and partners, officially launched the Eighth Operational Phase of the Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme (SGP8), reinforcing its commitment to scaling community-led solutions for climate action, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable livelihoods.

The launch was marked by the ceremonial signing of the Responsible Party Agreement between UNDP and the Forest Foundation Philippines, which will lead the implementation of SGP8 in the country.

For over three decades, the Small Grants Programme has demonstrated the transformative role of communities, particularly Indigenous Peoples, women, youth, farmers, and fisherfolk, in driving sustainable development. Since 1992, SGP Philippines has supported grassroots initiatives that protect ecosystems, strengthen livelihoods, and build resilience to climate and disaster risks.

SGP8 builds on these gains by adopting a more integrated landscape and seascape approach, linking ecosystem protection with livelihoods and governance. The programmeplaces communities at the center of decision-making, ensuring inclusive participation and stronger local ownership of development solutions.

“The Small Grants Programme (SGP) demonstrates what effective, community‑led partnerships can achieve. SGP OP8 will strengthen community voice through inclusive governance, protects ecosystems, and helps finance reach the beneficiaries in predictable, flexible ways,” said Christophe Bahuet, UNDP Resident Representative in the Philippines. “With support from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), UNDP and the Forest Foundation Philippines will bring positive changes to the communities.”

SGP8 will focus on scaling up proven solutions such as biodiversity-friendly enterprises, nature-based approaches, clean energy, and sustainable food systems, while strengthening linkages to policies, financing, and markets to ensure long-term impact.

The programme will continue to leverage multi-stakeholder platforms, including Landscape and Seascape Round Tables, to promote collaboration among government, civil society, and the private sector. This approach aims to strengthen coordination, enhance knowledge sharing, and ensure that community voices shape decision-making processes.

The launch also convened representatives from national government agencies, local governments, civil society organizations, and community groups, reflecting a whole-of-society approach to addressing the country’s most pressing environmental challenges.

As climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental degradation intensify, SGP8 positions the Philippines to further scale locally driven solutions that contribute to national and global sustainable development goals. [E]