The decentralized government structure in the Philippines and context-specific needs of communities at risk to climate hazards place local governments at a crucial position in leading climate change adaptation. With so many strategies and interventions that can be employed yet very limited resources, only those supported by local policy can be sustainably implemented. Prioritization and decision making of local governments can benefit significantly from external intervention through capacity building and introduction to science-based adaptation strategies as was extended by the Bicol Agri-Water Project (BAWP). Given the temporary nature of such external support, mechanisms were put in place to translate these initiatives into long-term solutions. BAWP increased local government capacity on policy analysis, flood and drought management planning and agricultural development planning through a series of training-workshops; engaged local government partners in project planning during annual roundtable discussions, and mainstreamed the Seasonal Climate Forecast and Extension Advisory (CLEA) and Climate Field School (CFS) in municipal governance. Legislative support in the form of ordinances and resolutions and integration of tools in local development planning provided favorable institutional support for continual adoption of the climate change strategies.
