SIMPLE Policy Settings and Contributions SIMPLE supports multiple policies within the umbrella of environment and natural resources sector. Priorities outlined in the implementation of national action plans on forests and watersheds, coastal and marine resources, climate change and disaster risk management are supported and described in Table 1. The main key policy supported is The Philippine Development Plan (2011-2016), where the Integrated Ecosystem-based Management is adopted as a major strategy. SIMPLE supports the National Convergence Initiative agencies tasked to carry out this strategy to improve rural development. In support of pushing forward sustainable management of the country’s environment and natural resources, SIMPLE’s contribution in the policies described in Table 1 are in the areas of:
Effective environmental governance • Encourage multi-stakeholder participation to manage their own natural resources • Tenurial security both in the upland and coastal areas by encouraging Co-Management agreements with DENR • Improving database and digitization of spatial information
Institutional strengthening and capability-building • Providing assistance to local governments to develop and implement local environment and natural resources management plans • Integration of disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation in local development plans in the updating of Comprehensive Land Use Plans by municipal governments and enforcement of zoning ordinances
Implementing Convergence Initiative • Build partnerships between and among the local communities, local governments and government agencies to ensure that local development interventions are based on actual needs and aspirations of the community • Achieve spatial integration within the different ecosystems and ensure environmental integrity and sustainability
12
