The New Zealand government has pledged PHP 247 million to support a new four-year initiative aimed at empowering Indigenous women and girls in the Philippines’ Regions 11 (Davao) and 12 (Soccsksargen). This programme, designed to build leadership skills, create economic opportunities, and improve resilience to climate change, was officially launched in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP).
The project, named Indigenous Women and Girls–Leadership and Empowerment in Ancestral Domains (I-LEAD), will focus on protecting the rights of Indigenous Peoples (IP) while promoting sustainable development in their ancestral lands. The initiative hopes to make a meaningful impact on the lives of women and girls in these communities, especially by addressing challenges related to climate change and economic development.
A signing ceremony in Davao City marked the official launch of the I-LEAD project, with key figures such as New Zealand Ambassador to the Philippines, Catherine McIntosh, UNDP Philippines Resident Representative, Selva Ramachandran, and NCIP Chairman Jennifer Pia Limpayen Sibug-Las in attendance.
During the event, Ambassador McIntosh highlighted New Zealand’s commitment to making a genuine difference in areas where the country’s support can have the greatest impact. “As a small donor country committed to development that works, we are carefully targeting our efforts to where we will make a real difference,” McIntosh said. “And I’m optimistic that together, we can make a real difference in the lives of Indigenous communities in Regions 11 and 12 and beyond.”
This partnership is part of New Zealand’s ongoing support for Indigenous women and girls, with a focus on fostering inclusive governance and promoting sustainable development practices in the Philippines. The collaboration with UNDP and NCIP will help ensure lasting positive change for Indigenous communities, particularly in Mindanao.
