Economic Recovery and Risk Mitigation Project in the Philippines (TUKOD)

Collaborating with fisherwomen, fishermen and municipal agencies, the project worked to restore and protect coral reefs and mangroves, two ecosystems that were devastated by Typhoon Haiyan. A consultation mechanism including all the fishermen was also implemented. Its objective was be to build awareness among the local communities of the devastating environmental and human effects of fishing with dynamite and cyanide. Sustainable alternatives were be brought forward as possible replacement solutions.

The project also put mechanisms in place to mitigate the effects of climate-related disasters on the local population, for example by anticipating the risks. An alert system and an evacuation plan were implemented for the regions of intervention, in collaboration with district authorities and the local population.

Improving access to professional technical training for unemployed people was an integral part of TUKOD. Many youth face difficulties in accessing employment. For this reason, the project offered technical and workplace skills training courses adapted to the needs of the regions where we work. Support was also offered for the development of 150 women-led businesses. Agri-food, handicraft and group loans were the targeted sectors. The whole community benefits from the economic spin-offs. Awareness-building initiatives with micro-credit organizations that could invest in these businesses have also been conducted.

For more information, please visit the project’s Facebook page.