ABS


Implementing the National Framework on Access and Benefit Sharing of Genetic Resources and Associated Traditional Knowledge in the Philippines

Fund SourceGlobal Environment Facility (GEF)
Amount (Grant & Co-Financing)USD 26,015,787
Duration6 Years (November 2021 – November 2027)
Implementing AgencyUnited Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Implementing PartnerDepartment of Environment and Natural Resources – Biodiversity Management Bureau
Regions / Project SitesIII – 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.

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

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