Philippines –The 3 Philippine provinces of Benguet, Ilocos Sur the Amburayan River, on November 17, 2014 that connection was made official through the signing of a Project Partnership Agreement (PPA) between the Jaime V. Ongpin Foundation Inc. (JVOFI) and representatives of local government units, civil service organizations and private sectors from the 3 provinces for the protection of the river and its watersheds.

The PPA is a major initial step for a 3-year project which aims to fairly manage the resources of the Amburayan River, safeguard its watershed and ensure the protection of the rights and interests of all stakeholders. After the PPA signing each major stakeholder had formally agreed to perform specific roles, accept certain responsibilities and fulfill key functions towards the achievement of common goals. The Amburayan River directly affects more than 34,000 families, irrigates more than 13,000 hectares and has the potential to be a major source for hydro-electric power.

Protecting and Defending the Amburayan River Basin and Watershed through Good Governance and Active People’s Participation is a project funded by the USAID through the Philippine-American Fund and implemented by JVOFI.