The GEF also promised to support the programs implemented by the government to ensure food security amid the challenges posed by effects of climate change.

Agriculture Secretary Arthur Yap said the GEF praised the country for its high absorptive capacity in carrying out projects pertaining to biodiversity, climate change, protection of marine life in international waters, and other initiatives on the sustainable management of the world’s natural resources.

Yap presented at least three approaches to protect coral reefs, rich marine life and the livelihood of small fisher folk during President Macapagal-Arroyo’s recent working visit to the United States.

He initiatives involve a comprehensive plan for the Verde Island Passage, considered as “the center of the center” of the world’s marine biodiversity with the highest number of species. The area spans fives provinces from Luzon.

The other initiatives include a project that would help prepare small fisher folk for the adverse effects of climate change while the third one assesses the vulnerabilities brought about by this global phenomenon on the country’s resources through a rapid alert system.

Comprising 178 countries, international institutions, private sector groups and nongovernmental organizations, the GEF provides grants for projects related to biodiversity, climate change, international waters, land degradation, the ozone layer, and persistent organic pollutants.