DSWD Launches Nationwide Project LAWA at BINHI to Combat El Niño Effects
In response to the escalating El Niño phenomenon, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has announced the nationwide deployment of Project LAWA at BINHI (Local Adaptation to Water Access and Breaking Insufficiency through Nutritious Harvest for the Impoverished) for the year 2024.
“Addressing the dual challenges of water scarcity and food insecurity is paramount, especially as El Niño’s impact intensifies. Project LAWA at BINHI is set to be implemented in 310 municipalities and 61 provinces across 16 regions, targeting the most vulnerable sectors,” stated Assistant Secretary for Disaster Response Management Group, Irene Dumlao, on Tuesday.
The ambitious initiative aims to benefit over 140,906 families, equating to approximately 704,530 individuals, through the establishment of 1,319 water harvesting facilities, which are expected to span 6,630 hectares of agricultural land.
“Climate change poses significant challenges, particularly during dry spells. Our goal with Project LAWA at BINHI is to bolster community resilience and ensure the well-being of those most at risk,” Asst. Sec. Dumlao highlighted.
Project LAWA focuses on improving water access and management by constructing and rehabilitating small farm reservoirs and diversifying water sources. Concurrently, Project BINHI promotes food security through climate-resilient agricultural practices, including communal gardening, vermicomposting, and the cultivation of disaster-resistant crops.
The DSWD’s pilot phase of Project LAWA in 2023 led to the creation of 90 small farm reservoirs across nine local government units, benefiting around 4,590 families. The combined efforts of Projects LAWA and BINHI are designed to enhance the adaptive capabilities of impoverished families, mitigating the adverse effects of severe drought and contributing to the fight against climate change-induced food and water shortages.