Provincial Administrator Raul Banias conducted a round-table discussion with environmental advocates to seek technical assistance on how the province can integrate Nature-Based Solutions and Ridge-to-Reef strategy in the implementation of development programs and projects.
Present during the meeting are Victor Prodigo, an advisor specializing in Nature-Based Solutions and the Ridge-to-Reef Strategy, Melvin Purzuelo of Green Forum, Larry Nacionales of the Panay Organic Producers Association (POPA), and concerned Capitol department heads.
The discussions centered on how the provincial government can utilize its budget in renewable energy, agriculture, disaster, and infrastructure while taking into account our natural ecosystem.
“Our overarching goal here is on how we can judiciously use our fund in boosting our disaster resilience and agricultural productivity, and reducing carbon emission. We want to use nature-based approaches to address El Niño and prevent flooding,” Banias said.
According to Prodigo, nature-based solutions involves protecting, managing, and restoring natural ecosystems to address societal challenges. Prodigo also underscored the need to integrate nature-based approaches in local governance.
Ridge-to-Reef approach takes into account the human interventions in the forest and upland areas.
The dialogue is timely as several towns in the province recently reeled from the effects of two typhoons that hit the country this month.
Meanwhile, the Iloilo provincial government is observing the Provincial Environmental Awareness Month and Climate Change Consciousness Week on November 17-21, 2025 with the theme, “Ridge-to-Reef (R2R) Commitment for MoRProGRes.”
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