MANILA — Department of Agriculture (DA) Undersecretary Roger Navarro joined Ambassador of Japan to the Philippines Endo Kazuya on March 4, 2026, in Makati City to formalize a USD75,043 (P4.38 million) grant aimed at improving fisheries facilities for Indigenous communities in Taytay, Palawan.

The grant, under the Japanese government’s Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP), seeks to enhance fisheries-based livelihoods and strengthen the resilience of local Indigenous communities.

“The government of Japan, through the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines under the leadership of His Excellency Endo Kazuya, continues to show strong commitment to supporting vulnerable sectors through direct, community-based programs. We sincerely appreciate this support for our Indigenous brothers and sisters, which will help improve their livelihoods and well-being,” Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. said in a message delivered by Usec. Navarro.

The project will be implemented by the United Church of Christ in the Philippines – Southern Luzon Jurisdictional Area (UCCP-SLJA) Integrated Development Program (IDLIP-ST) for Indigenous People in Southern Tagalog, in coordination with local stakeholders and relevant government agencies.

During the same event, a separate USD243,055 (P14 million) grant was signed for garbage compactors to improve solid waste management in Ubay, Bohol. Together, the two community-centered initiatives total USD318,098 (P18.3 million) and aim to strengthen local services and livelihoods.

“These projects align with the priorities of the DA to modernize the agriculture and fisheries sectors while ensuring that development is inclusive and sustainable. We believe that progress must reach grassroots communities, especially Indigenous peoples and rural areas. Today’s ceremony is not only a signing of agreements. It is a clear sign of strong partnership and shared responsibility between Japan and the Philippines. Through cooperation and mutual respect, we can create lasting and meaningful change,” Tiu Laurel added.

Also present at the ceremony were Department of Environment and Natural Resources Assistant Secretary Jacqueline Caancan, DA-4K Program Director Gilbert Baltazar, BFAR MIMAROPA Regional Director Roberto Abrera, Palawan 1st District Representative Rosalie Salvame, Taytay Mayor Norbert Lim, and Palawan Council for Sustainable Development Executive Director Teodoro Jose Matta.