DSWD takes part in the Stakeholder Convergence Meeting on HAPAG Katutubo Project

(Tanay, Rizal, Philippines) DSWD Field Office IV-A, through Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (EPAHP) participated in the Stakeholder Convergence Meeting on the launch of HAPAG Katutubo Project. The meeting was held at the Municipal Office of Tanay, Rizal last 10 July 2024. Through the Open Government Partnership (OGP) approach, the HAPAG – Katutubo Project aims to highlight the role of Indigenous Cultural Communities/Indigenous Peoples (ICCs/IPs) in food security through provision and access to capacity building and technical assistance from the relevant national government agencies. The project also seeks to promote the preservation and promotion of indigenous knowledge and practices related to food production and security. 

The meeting discussed the implementation plan for the project, including the roles of each agency and the identification of target communities. Additionally, the meeting emphasized the importance of engaging with local leaders and community members to ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of the HAPAG Katutubo Project. Representatives from different agencies all shared their commitments to support the project and ensure its success. DSWD Field Office IV-A presented its plans and strategies to address hunger and poverty in the region through the program implementation of EPAHP. 

Moving forward, the project team will be conducting community consultations to gather input and feedback from the target communities. The designation of focals representing each stakeholder and the creation of a technical working group will also be a priority to ensure smooth coordination and communication. By involving the local communities in decision-making processes, the HAPAG Katutubo Project aims to empower IPs to take ownership of the project and drive sustainable change in their own communities. 

The Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (EPAHP) is a convergence program under IATF Zero Hunger which aims to promote food and nutrition security.  In CALABARZON, 17 regional line agencies have committed to support the program by signing the EPAHP Regional MoU last 16 June 2023. For more information, visit epahp.org-  with report from HSParaiso