ABS
Implementing the National Framework on Access and Benefit Sharing of Genetic Resources and Associated Traditional Knowledge in the Philippines
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2nd Design Thinking Workshop on Developing the Philippines ABS Functional Mechanism/ABS Clearing House
A two(2) day Design Thinking Workshop on the development of the Philippines Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) Functional Mechanism/ABS Clearing House System was conducted last September 18-19, 2024 in Puerto…
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Design Thinking Workshop on Developing the Philippines ABS Functional Mechanism/ABS Clearing House
In preparation for the development of the Philippine ABS Functional Mechanism (ABS Clearing House) online system, a Design Thinking workshop was conducted last July 2-3, 2024 in Clark, Pampanga. The…
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ABS Project needs official logo; holds design-a-logo contest
The Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) Project is calling all amateur and professional graphic artists to participate in the project’s logo design contest. Deadline of submission of entries will be on February 20, 2023…
Fund Source | Global Environment Facility (GEF) |
Amount (Grant & Co-Financing) | USD 26,015,787 |
Duration | 6 Years (November 2021 – November 2027) |
Implementing Agency | United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) |
Implementing Partner | Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Biodiversity Management Bureau |
Regions / Project Sites | III – Bataan, Pampanga, Zambales (Banaba) V – Camarines Sur, Albay and Sorsogon (Pili) |
About the Project
The Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) Project, formally recognized as “Implementing the National Framework on Access and Benefit Sharing of Genetic Resources and Associated Traditional Knowledge in the Philippines,” is spearheaded by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Biodiversity Management Bureau (DENR-BMB). This project is executed in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in the Philippines, and generously supported by the Global Environment Facility (GEF).
Serving as a strategic initiative within the Philippines, the ABS Project aims to enhance the implementation of the Nagoya Protocol. Its primary objectives include reinforcing the national Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) framework, boosting national and local capacities, and cultivating essential expertise in ABS agreements. These concerted efforts are designed to expand economic opportunities and promote biodiversity conservation for local communities and indigenous peoples.
Components
Strengthening the national ABS framework
This involves updating the current ABS framework and aligning policies related to bioprospecting, scientific research, and the commercialization of genetic resources. Emphasis is placed on enhancing multi-sectoral and inter-agency collaboration and developing supporting information systems, such as a research database for genetic resources and associated traditional or indigenous knowledge.
Raising awareness and building capacity for ABS framework implementation
This facet centers on bolstering capacities for crafting and enforcing ABS policies, securing intellectual property rights, engaging with the private sector, and assessing research proposals. A significant portion of effort will be allocated to establish a model research and development practice that promotes ABS.
Demonstrating benefit-sharing agreements
This component aims to facilitate at least one ABS agreement that complies with the Nagoya Protocol and to support community protocols for obtaining Prior Informed Consent and Free, Prior and Informed Consent (PIC/FPIC), and Mutually Agreed Terms (MAT). In addition, the project plans to assist in the development of at least two bio-products (pili and banaba) derived from local genetic resources.
Nagoya Protocol and Access and Benefit Sharing
The Philippines is among the nations that signed the Nagoya Protocol in Nagoya, Japan, in October 2010. This international agreement aims to protect and conserve biodiversity worldwide. Specifically, it addresses the use, access, and sharing of genetic resources, such as plants, animals, and microbes.
Signatory countries are entrusted with the duty to safeguard their natural resources and to respect the culture and traditions tied to their use. Companies and individuals who wish to access or utilize these genetic resources must obtain permission from the custodians and ensure fair and equitable benefit-sharing with the communities that nurture and sustain these resources.
Through the Nagoya Protocol, stricter regulations are anticipated on the access and utilization of genetic resources. This aims not only to protect biodiversity but also to honor and appreciate the cultural rights and traditions of communities that care for these natural assets.
Briefers
Safeguard Documents
- ABS Project Social and Environmental Screening Procedure under Implementation stage as of November 2023
- ABS Project Indigenous Peoples Plan as of November 2023
- ABS Project Environmental and Social Management Plan as of November 2023
- ABS Project Updated Gender Analysis and Action Plan as of November 2023
- ABS Project Updated Stakeholder Engagement Plan as of November 2023
Communication Plans
Project Reports
Operations Manual
Maps
Photo Gallery
ABS PROJECT
DENR-BMB, ABS Project Office, South Luzon Cottage,
Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center, North Ave., Diliman,
Quezon City, Metro Manila 1100, Philippines