Marine Ecosystems for Blue Economy Development Program (Subprogram 1)

Proposed

The proposed program will support the development of resilient coastal and marine ecosystems and a thriving blue economy in the Philippines. The program aims at (i) integrated and inclusive management of coastal and marine ecosystems; (ii) enhanced management and circularity of plastic and other solid waste; and (iii) strengthened planning, budgeting, and investment in natural capital. The program is aligned with the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 20232028, the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), and the National Adaptation Plan (NAP 2032-2050). It supports a blue economy by harnessing coastal and marine resources, preserving ecosystems, enhancing climate and disaster resilience, and fostering public and sector investment for sustainable growth. The program supports the nature-based development and disaster resilience strategic priority of the country partnership strategy for the Philippines, 20242029. It is aligned with Asian Development Bank's (ADB) Strategy 2030 operational priorities (OPs), specifically (i) OP1 on addressing remaining poverty and reducing inequalities; (ii) OP2 on accelerating progress in gender equality; (iii) OP3 on tackling climate change, building climate and disaster resilience, and enhancing environmental sustainability; (iv) OP5 on rural development and food security; and (v) OP6 on strengthening governance and institutional capacity. The operation is aligned with the Paris Agreement.