40 Equity Initiative Fellows and staff embarked on an outreach to the municipalities of Sibonga and Argao in Cebu to deepen their understanding of equity and climate change through direct engagement with local communities and their adaptive strategies.

The first stop of their visit was at SIMBADA, a fisherfolk association in Simala, Sibonga where discussions on the impacts of climate change on fisheries, a sector critical to the local economy. The dialogue highlighted the dual challenges of environmental changes and socio-economic issues such as poverty and inequity. The exchange underscored the importance of community resilience and the role of grassroots organizations in advocating for the rights and welfare of marginalized sectors.

Following this, the fellows visited Taloot Integrated School, a beacon of community-driven interventions. The school’s innovative programs addressing malnutrition and illiteracy have earned it the prestigious 2023 Galing Pook Award. This visit illustrated the profound impact of holistic, community-based approaches in tackling systemic issues and fostering inclusive development.

The third segment of the visit featured a lecture by Dr. Lillio, an expert on mangroves, who elaborated on the critical role of these coastal ecosystems in climate change adaptation and coastal protection. This immersive activity allowed the fellows to witness the biodiversity of mangroves and understand their vital function in safeguarding coastal communities against the impacts of climate change, such as rising sea levels and extreme weather events.

The final destination was the Pestales Agriculture Cooperative, a model of sustainable agriculture and communal resilience. The cooperative has navigated the complexities of inconsistent agricultural policies, demonstrating the potential of farming as a sustainable livelihood. The fellows observed the cooperative’s innovative practices and their success in enhancing food security and economic stability. This visit highlighted the importance of coherent policies and support systems in empowering farmers and promoting equitable growth.

The visited took place on 6 August 2024. STANCe organized this event.