Climate change isn’t just an environmental issue—it’s a daily reality for many communities facing extreme weather, rising seas, and unpredictable seasons.
For families in high-risk areas, the impact goes beyond property loss.
It affects livelihoods, health, and access to basic needs.
That’s why the DSWD Panahon ng Pagkilos program exists: to help vulnerable communities take action against climate risks.
This initiative focuses on community-driven climate adaptation projects, offering resources and guidance to municipalities with high poverty rates and exposure to natural hazards.
There is no direct cost to eligible communities.
The program is fully funded through a World Bank loan and government support, ensuring that those who need it most can access sustainable solutions.
If you live in an area frequently hit by floods, droughts, or typhoons, this program could help build resilience in your community.
Who is Eligible for Panahon ng Pagkilos?
Not all communities qualify for this initiative.
The program is specifically designed for areas that meet these eligibility criteria:
- High Poverty Levels – Municipalities with poverty incidence higher than the national average.
- Exposure to Climate Hazards – Areas regularly affected by extreme weather events like floods, typhoons, or landslides.
- Presence of Indigenous Populations – Regions with significant indigenous communities that need climate resilience support.
- Limited Access to Basic Services – Locations where essential services (such as safe water, healthcare, and emergency shelters) are inadequate or vulnerable to climate-related disasters.
Communities that meet these criteria are prioritized to receive resources and guidance on sustainable climate adaptation solutions.
How Does the Program Work?
Unlike traditional relief efforts, Panahon ng Pagkilos focuses on long-term resilience.
Instead of merely responding to disasters, it helps communities prepare, adapt, and strengthen their infrastructure and livelihood systems.
Here’s how the process unfolds:
- Community Planning and Risk Assessment
Residents, local leaders, and experts gather to identify climate risks specific to their community.
Workshops are held to develop Local Climate Change Action Plans (LCCAPs) that outline priority adaptation projects.
- Project Identification and Approval
Each community submits proposals for climate adaptation projects, such as flood defenses, water conservation systems, or sustainable agriculture programs.
DSWD evaluates these based on feasibility and impact.
- Funding and Implementation
Approved projects receive grants and technical support.
Local government units and community members take part in implementation, ensuring sustainability and local ownership.
- Monitoring and Sustainability Planning
Once projects are completed, communities are trained on how to maintain and maximize their benefits.
This ensures long-term resilience rather than temporary relief.
What Kind of Projects Are Funded?
The program provides financial and technical assistance for projects that directly address climate-related risks.
Examples of approved initiatives include:
- Disaster-Resilient Infrastructure – Flood barriers, storm-resistant shelters, improved drainage systems.
- Water Security Projects – Rainwater harvesting systems, drought-resistant irrigation.
- Sustainable Livelihoods – Climate-smart agriculture, alternative income sources that reduce environmental impact.
- Ecosystem Protection – Reforestation, mangrove conservation, soil erosion control.
- Early Warning Systems – Installation of weather monitoring tools and communication networks to warn residents of incoming hazards.
Each project is tailored to meet the unique needs of the community, ensuring practical and lasting impact.
How is the Program Funded?
Panahon ng Pagkilos is a government-led initiative, but its funding comes from a mix of local and international sources.
- World Bank Loan
A PHP 52.5 billion fund has been secured through the World Bank, covering nearly 77.3% of the program’s total cost.
- Government Counterpart
The remaining 22.7% comes from national and local government funds.
Local government units may contribute in-kind support, such as labor or land use, to implement projects effectively.
- Community Contributions
While beneficiaries do not pay for projects, many participate by providing labor or local resources, reinforcing community ownership of the solutions.
What’s the Expected Impact?
The program is projected to reach 500 municipalities in its first phase, positively affecting millions of Filipinos.
Anticipated Benefits:
- Reduced Disaster Losses – Fewer casualties and property damage in climate-vulnerable communities.
- Improved Water and Food Security – More reliable access to clean water and sustainable farming.
- Stronger Local Economies – More climate-resilient livelihoods and businesses.
- Empowered Communities – Increased awareness, leadership, and preparedness at the grassroots level.
- Better Climate Governance – Municipalities integrating climate adaptation into their long-term development plans.
How to Get Involved?
If your municipality is eligible, here’s how you can participate in the program:
- Community Leaders – Work with local government units to propose projects that address climate risks in your area.
- Residents – Attend community assemblies to help identify priorities and take part in implementation.
- Local Governments – Apply for funding and coordinate with DSWD to facilitate projects.
- Organizations & NGOs – Partner with local communities to provide technical expertise or additional resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long will it take for projects to be implemented?
Each project follows a structured timeline, typically taking 12 to 24 months from approval to completion, depending on complexity.
- Can private businesses contribute to this initiative?
Yes. Companies can collaborate by providing resources, technical expertise, or co-funding sustainable projects.
- Is there a way to track the progress of funded projects?
Yes. DSWD provides community-level monitoring, with reports accessible through municipal offices and online updates.
- Will there be training provided for communities?
Yes. Communities receive capacity-building workshops on project maintenance, climate adaptation strategies, and disaster preparedness.
Recent Updates
Visayas Cluster Stakeholders’ Consultation for Panahon ng Pagkilos
DSWD Field Office 8 – Eastern Visayas KALAHI-CIDSS joins the Visayas Cluster Stakeholders’ Consultation for the Panahon ng Pagkilos: PH Resilience Project (PCRP).
In the Municipality of Tolosa, Leyte, the consultation took place on 26 February 2025.
As part of the preparations for KALAHI-CIDSS’ upcoming project, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office 8 – Eastern Visayas participated in this simultaneous activity.
Officials and representatives from the Barangay and Local Government Units of Tolosa, Leyte, stakeholders, and community volunteers engaged in the meeting.
The objectives of the Panahon ng Pagkilos project were discussed, with simultaneous discussions and an open forum in the local Waray dialect.
The KALAHI-CIDSS National Program Management Office, representatives from World Bank, and the KALAHI-CIDSS Regional Program Management Office 8 spearheaded the activity.
This consultation meeting provided necessary information to KALAHI-CIDSS’ partner-stakeholders and community volunteers on the key objectives of the new project.
The Panahon ng Pagkilos program of DSWD KALAHI-CIDSS moves forward.
NEDA-ICC Technical Board endorses the program for further review.
The Investment Coordination Committee Cabinet Committee will review it next.
Recognized for community resilience, the program integrates key recommendations.
NEDA and DOF provide valuable input to align with DSWD’s social protection mandate.
This milestone advances the program, paving the way for its nationwide implementation.
On 18 February 2025, DSWD Field Office 1 KALAHI-CIDSS Regional Program Management Office staff facilitated the Stakeholders’ Consultation for the Panahon ng Pagkilos program in Sugpon, Ilocos Sur.
A translated Iloco presentation effectively conveyed the program’s key features.
Officials from Barangays Danac, Banga, Pangotan, and Balbalayang (Poblacion), along with municipal local government officials and community volunteers, actively contributed insights.
Their contributions focused on enhancing community resilience.
The initiative was led by the DSWD KALAHI-CIDSS National Program Management Office and the World Bank.
Video: DSWD, hihiling ng dagdag pondo para makabili pa ng gamit pantugon sa panahon ng kalamidad
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has dispatched the 3rd batch of mobile kitchens.
These kitchens are traveling to various regions in the country.
DSWD aims to boost its disaster response capabilities.
They plan to request additional funds for further support.
Conclusion
Panahon ng Pagkilos isn’t just about preparing for disasters—it’s about creating stronger, more sustainable communities.
By investing in resilience now, we ensure a safer future for those most affected by climate change.
If your community qualifies, now is the time to take action.
Talk to your local government or reach out to DSWD to learn more about how you can be part of this movement toward a climate-resilient future.