document.doc

UNITED NATIONS DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME (UNDP) ANNUAL PROJECT REPORT (APR)

UNDP/GLOBAL ENVIRONMENT FACILITY (GEF) PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION REPORT (PIR)

2003OFFICIAL TITLE: Biodiversity Conservation and Management of the

Bohol Islands Marine Triangle (BMT)UNDP PROJECT NUMBER:

PHI/00/G37 GEF PROJECT NUMBER:

1359

DATE OF REPORT: May 2003 DATE OF LAST APR/PIR:

June 2002

1. BASIC PROJECT IDENTIFIERS- Please enter all date (DD/MMM/YEAR)COUNTRY PhilippinesFOCAL AREA BiodiversityOPERATIONAL PROGRAMME 2: Coastal, Marine and Freshwater EcosystemsDATE OF ENTRY IN WP 05-DEC-2000PRODOC SIGNATURE DATE 15-MAR-2001DURATION (MONTHS) 60 months

1.1 BRIEF PROJECT DESCRIPTION -Please limit to maximum 100 words.

This project will ensure that options and existence values embodied in the globally significant Bohol Marine Triangle (BMT) are conserved. A more effective, equitable and sustainable planning, implementation, monitoring and enforcement of biodiversity conservation efforts will be established through the following project outputs: (1) strengthened government and community institutions to facilitate application of a coastal management framework, with the establishment and maintenance of marine reserves a s a major component; (2) development and application of policies and guidelines that will facilitate the elimination of destructive activities; (3) relevant and reliable information for monitoring and inventory as basis to establish sustainable harvesting; (4) compliance with environmental guidelines improved through a programme of education and awareness building; (5) alternative conservation-enabling livelihood activities are sustained through established benefit sharing and revolving fund schemes; (6) targeted ecosystem rehabilitation will improve overall ecosystem health and contribute to improved well-being of local communities; (7) an Integrated Master Plan for BMT is established and operationalized. The project will be accomplished through a community-based conservation management and multi-sectoral partnership between the government, local industries, non-government and people’s organization.

05/07/23 1

document.doc

1.2 BASIC FINANCIAL DATA – Please present all financial values in millions (e.g. 3,502,000 = 3.502)Funding Source Institution Name (Acronym,

if any)Proposed Financing(in Prodoc)

Actual Financing

A. GEF FUNDING .718270 .718270

B. C

O-F

INA

NC

ING

GOVERNMENT (IN-KIND)

DOT .121250 .121250LGUs .011820

BILATERAL DONORS US-CRMP .005000 .005000MULTILATERAL DONORS

WB-CBRM .038750 .038750

NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORG.

FPE, .187638

FCBFI, BIDEF .100000BIDEF .274730WWF-KKP .250000Sub-Total - NGOs (.812368) .370624

PRIVATE SECTOR .007500 .007500OTHERS GDS .125000 .125000

TOTAL CO-FINANCING .637611 .679944TOTAL FUNDING (A+B) 1.355881 1.398214

05/07/23 2

document.doc

2. PROJECT PERFORMANCE

SRF Goal: Environmentally sustainable development to reduce human povertySRF Sub Goal: Sustainable environmental management and energy development to improve the

livelihoods and security of the poorStrategic Area of Support (1)

Policy framework

Outcome: Environment and natural resources (ENR) policies, framework, and plans strengthened, rationalized and effectively implemented

Strategic Areas of Support (2)

Institutional framework

Outcome: Improved capacity of national/sectoral authorities to plan and implement integrated approaches to environmental management and energy development that respond to the needs of the poor

05/07/23 3

document.doc

2.1 DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVE- Please rate each objective, not each individual indicator.Development Objective Indicators

(Include Target Value & Time Frame)

Actual Level Achieved(please provide brief description)

2002 Rating

2003 Rating

Options and existence values embodied in the globally significant Bohol Marine Triangle Project

Increase in the number and total area of marine reserves in the BMT with community-based and multi-sectoral conservation planning, implementation, monitoring and enforcement mechanisms compared to 1999 baseline data

Based on the project document, BMTP is expected to establish 10 marine reserves at the end of year 5 but there are already 8 marine sanctuaries covered with municipal ordinances when the project implementation started. The management, monitoring and law enforcement, however, are inadequate so they can only be considered as “paper marine sanctuaries ”. Evaluation of the marine sanctuaries is on-going to determine the status of sustainability and management (e.g. existence of management teams, Marine Protected Area (MPA) planning , monitoring and enforcement mechanisms, etc.) so that these areas can become fully functional marine sanctuaries.

The project was able to work with the stakeholders of the 3 barangays who have agreed to transform their respective Marine sanctuaries into Marine reserves. The zones are already delineated but the amendment of the municipal ordinance is yet to come and the project is working on it to achieve this.

S S

05/07/23 4

document.doc

Incidence of mangrove conversion, sand quarrying, blast fishing, coral reef destruction, garbage and sewage pollution and illegal constructions is significantly reduced by Year 5

Baseline information was gathered on the incidences of these illegal activities. These are initially being addressed in the CBCRM plans formulated at the barangay level and will be addressed more extensively at the municipal level through the formulation of a Municipal CRM plan. Just recently, Fish Wardens coming from different barangays were trained and deputized to enforce Fishery Laws and other fishery related ordinances in their respective municipalities.

OVERALL RATING S S

2.1.1 DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVE ASSUMPTIONS & RISKSDO #

Assumption Risk (measured as the probability that the assumption will not hold)

a. Natural phenomena precipitated by global climate change do not neutralize positive impacts of project. Baseline programs to address issues in sustainable development that are relevant to coastal and marine biodiversity continue and are effective.

Local government units (LGUs) and communities will continuously undertake coastal resource management (CRM) as can be seen by increasing budget allocations, providing personnel, minimizing illegal fishing and harnessing tourism benefits for CRM.

M

b. Interagency cooperation to ensure the identification, delineation, mapping out and recognition of marine reserves as scheduled continues to the level and extent necessary. The marginal benefits of local leaders from participating in the Project, is greater than their opportunity costs.

The Bohol Environment Mgt. Office (BEMO) will remain committed to coordinate the BMT Management Board and the formation of the BMT Master Plan through

L

05/07/23 5

document.doc

2.1.1 DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVE ASSUMPTIONS & RISKSDO #

Assumption Risk (measured as the probability that the assumption will not hold)

the guidance of the management board.c. General public is receptive of and sustains interest in biodiversity conservation

issues. Local conservation constituency increase influence in local policy making.

Stakeholders and resource management agencies are willing and able to increasingly take over and carry on conservation management activities as the project progresses.

Modest (M)

d. Interagency cooperation to ensure effective monitoring and enforcement of regulations continue to the level and extent necessary. M

e. Cooperation of trained core groups continue to extent and level necessary. Mf. Coastal population appreciate the global significance of BMT, comprehend its

threats and motivated to take section. Mg. Dive industry and other representatives of the eco-tourism industry are amenable

to the “ beneficiaries pay” principle.

Relevant local Local government units committed to passing legislation required to operationalize collection of of user fees and license fees.

S

05/07/23 6

document.doc

2.2 IMMEDIATE OBJECTIVES -Please rate each objective, not each individual indicator.

# Immediate Objective

Outputs Indicators (Include Target Value & Time Frame)

Actual Level Achieved(please provide brief description)

2002 Rating

2003 Rating

The overall goal of the proposed project is to ensure that options and existence values of the globally significant Bohol Marine Triangle (BMT) are conserved.

The primary objective of the proposed project is to enable the conservation of the biodiversity resources in the BMT through a more effective,

1. Strengthened government and community institutions will facilitate the application of a coastal management framework, with the establishment and maintenance of marine reserves as major component.

1.1Number and total area of marine reserves legalized

Year 1 2 3 4 5 6Cum No. 2 3 5 8 10 12Total area = 50 to 100 hectares

10 existing MPAs legalized prior to the implementation of the project. Project is working towards making these MPAs fully functional through assistance in formulating MPA plans.

S S

1.2Number of trained core groups undertaking regular conservation planning and enforcement activities

Year 1 2 3 4 5 onwards No. 3 6 6 6 6

Three (3) Fish Warden groups (one per municipality) trained and deputized undertaking enforcement activities in their respective municipalities.

Three (3) Technical Working Groups (one per municipality) oriented and trained on CRM related activities.

05/07/23 7

document.doc

2.2 IMMEDIATE OBJECTIVES -Please rate each objective, not each individual indicator.

# Immediate Objective

Outputs Indicators (Include Target Value & Time Frame)

Actual Level Achieved(please provide brief description)

2002 Rating

2003 Rating

equitable and sustainable planning implementation, and monitoring and law enforcement of biodiversity conservation efforts.

1.3No. of barangay level CBCRM plans formulated in a participatory process and integrated in the Master Plan

Year 1 2 3 4 No. 3 6 12

19 Barangay CBCRM plans formulated for integration into the Master Plan

1.4Number of resolutions adopted to support barangay level CBCRM

12 resolutions adopted to support the 12 Barangay CBCRM plans

1.5Number of agency plans supportive of the Master Plan

The Project is currently working towards the integration of the barangay CRM Plan into the LGUS’ (barangay, municipal and provincial) development plans. Said process is a means towards a holistic approach of sustainable development reflected into the Master Plan.

05/07/23 8

document.doc

2.2 IMMEDIATE OBJECTIVES -Please rate each objective, not each individual indicator.

# Immediate Objective

Outputs Indicators (Include Target Value & Time Frame)

Actual Level Achieved(please provide brief description)

2002 Rating

2003 Rating

1.6BMT Project office set up by 1st

quarter of Year 1 BMT Project

Management Office was set up August 2001

1.7Project plan of operation completed by 1st quarter of year 1

A five year indicative project plan was formulated

1.8A functional Management Board composed of key stakeholders is set up with legal mandate and is officially and popularly recognized by 1st quarter of year 2

The Management Board was initially formed in year 2 which is composed of seven (7) members ( 3 mayors , 1 NGO rep., 1 BEMO head, 1 FPE/PMO rep and 1 PO rep.)

05/07/23 9

document.doc

2.2 IMMEDIATE OBJECTIVES -Please rate each objective, not each individual indicator.

# Immediate Objective

Outputs Indicators (Include Target Value & Time Frame)

Actual Level Achieved(please provide brief description)

2002 Rating

2003 Rating

1.9A Memorandum of Agreement is forged among all key stakeholders spelling out their respective roles and functions in the implementation of the BMT Master Plan as well as other institutional arrangements by 1st

Quarter of Year 2.

A Memorandum of Agreement was signed among the three mayors recognizing joint management of the marine resources in the BMT area.

A Memorandum of Agreement was signed between Foundation for the Philippine Environment (FPE) and the Province of Bohol for the collaboration of the project through the participation of the Bohol Environment Management Office (BEMO).

05/07/23 10

document.doc

2.2 IMMEDIATE OBJECTIVES -Please rate each objective, not each individual indicator.

# Immediate Objective

Outputs Indicators (Include Target Value & Time Frame)

Actual Level Achieved(please provide brief description)

2002 Rating

2003 Rating

2. The development and application of policies and guidelines will facilitate elimination of destructive activities.

2.1 All economic activities governed by appropriate policies and guidelines 18 months into project.

Inventory of existing policies and guidelines are being undertaken and will be subject for review and analysis through the municipal policy dialogues

S S

2.2 Damaging activities such as sand mining and disposal of untreated waste eliminated by year 4.

On going orientation on Fishery Laws at the barangays and conducted one training on solid waste management in 1 barangay

05/07/23 11

document.doc

2.2 IMMEDIATE OBJECTIVES -Please rate each objective, not each individual indicator.

# Immediate Objective

Outputs Indicators (Include Target Value & Time Frame)

Actual Level Achieved(please provide brief description)

2002 Rating

2003 Rating

3. Relevant and reliable information used for monitoring and inventory and as basis to establish sustainable harvesting.

3.1 Number of targeted socio-economic and biological research conducted by the 2nd quarter of Year 1.

Conducted socio-economic and biological research thru Participatory Coastal Resource Assessment (PCRA) in 31 barangays

Conducted in-depth Biophysical Assessment thru Silliman University

S S

3.2 Frequency of resource inventory monitoring conducted

Year 1 2 3 4 5 onwardsFreq. 1 0 1 0 1 biennial

Conducted 1 resource inventory monitoring for 2002

05/07/23 12

document.doc

2.2 IMMEDIATE OBJECTIVES -Please rate each objective, not each individual indicator.

# Immediate Objective

Outputs Indicators (Include Target Value & Time Frame)

Actual Level Achieved(please provide brief description)

2002 Rating

2003 Rating

3.3 Frequency of random surveillance of marine reserves

Year 1 2 3 4 5 onwardsFreq. 6 12 12 12 12 monthly

Daily surveillance on some Marine reserves by the MPA Management Team at the Barangay level

The process of forming a management team to conduct surveillance and monitoring activities is on-going for other MPA areas.

3.4 Monitoring and enforcement agreement between resource users and authorities made operational by 1st quarter of year 3

No Agreement yet but still in the process of organizing activities

05/07/23 13

document.doc

2.2 IMMEDIATE OBJECTIVES -Please rate each objective, not each individual indicator.

# Immediate Objective

Outputs Indicators (Include Target Value & Time Frame)

Actual Level Achieved(please provide brief description)

2002 Rating

2003 Rating

3.5 Increase in the percentage of the coastal population in the municipalities of Baclayon, Dauis, and Panglao who actively participate in the BMT conservation policy dialogues and advocacy beyond 1999 baseline data.

Active participation of the coastal population in the 3 municipalities is increasing based on 1999 baseline data but the percentage can not be determined as of this time

4. Compliance with environmental guidelines improved through a programme of education and awareness building

4.1 Education programmes tailored to different stakeholder groups developed by end year 1 and under implementation in years 2-5.

Developed and implemented Awareness raising program on CRM for the different stakeholders (e.g. basic CRM, MPAs, Fishery Laws, Tourism, etc.)

S S

4.2 Occurrence of damaging activities reduced through self-policing in years 3-5.

On going advocacy and orientation of RA 8550 (Fisheries Code of 1998)

Conducted Paralegal trainings to Fish Wardens

05/07/23 14

document.doc

2.2 IMMEDIATE OBJECTIVES -Please rate each objective, not each individual indicator.

# Immediate Objective

Outputs Indicators (Include Target Value & Time Frame)

Actual Level Achieved(please provide brief description)

2002 Rating

2003 Rating

5. Alternative conservation-enabling livelihood activities are sustained through established benefit sharing and revolving fund schemes.

5.1 Regulations on the collection of fees and other benefit sharing schemes as registered and disseminated to all key stakeholders by 1st quarter of year 2.

Formulated Scheme for collection of users fees, drafted Trust Fund (TF) establishment and management scheme.

Conducted consultation with key stakeholders.

Drafted Users fee/TF Municipal ordinance for Panglao which is undergoing review at the Municipal level.

S S

5.2 A revolving fund to be managed by the BMT Management Board by 1st Quarter of Year 3.

Not yet done. This will form part of the duties and responsibilities of the BMT MB as soon as it becomes fully functional.

05/07/23 15

document.doc

2.2 IMMEDIATE OBJECTIVES -Please rate each objective, not each individual indicator.

# Immediate Objective

Outputs Indicators (Include Target Value & Time Frame)

Actual Level Achieved(please provide brief description)

2002 Rating

2003 Rating

5.3 Cumulative number of communities in the three pilot areas with alternative livelihood being pilot tested by core groups and financed by the revolving fund and counterpart fund.

Month 15 30Cum # 1 3

Three barangays identified for pilot implementation of alternative livelihood.

P1 million (USD $18,632) counterpart fund worked out for release from FPE.

Livelihood fund management scheme currently being developed.

Negotiations on-going for low interest loan funds for the POs (individual and organization) in partnership with an NGO operating at the project site and a national NGO providing loans to NGOs/POs.

05/07/23 16

document.doc

2.2 IMMEDIATE OBJECTIVES -Please rate each objective, not each individual indicator.

# Immediate Objective

Outputs Indicators (Include Target Value & Time Frame)

Actual Level Achieved(please provide brief description)

2002 Rating

2003 Rating

6. Targeted ecosystem rehabilitation will improve overall ecosystem health and contribute to improved well-being of local communities.

6.1 Areas to be targeted for rehabilitation delineated after 6 months

Areas targeted for rehabilitation identified but not delineated.

US US

6.2 100% of targeted areas rehabilitated by end of year 3

Not done yet.

6.3 Participatory appraisals indicate improved ecosystem health in years 4 & 5

Not done. Scheduled for year 4.

7. An integrated Master Plan for BMT is established and operationalized

7.1 A 10-year Integrated Master Plan for BMT for 3 municipalities with components on zoning, enforcement, communication and community participation developed and adopted by key stakeholders by 4th quarter of year 3.

Formulation of the 10-yr BMT Master Plan has been initiated through the PCRA, barangay CRM plans made, researches conducted, barangay Coastal Environmental profiles prepared, MOA with the 3 mayors signed and the BMT Management Board formed.

US US

OVERALL RATING S S

05/07/23 17

document.doc

Exchange rate used is based on UN rates for August 2003 @ USD $ 1 = 53.67 Pesos

05/07/23 18

document.doc

2.2.1 IMMEDIATE OBJECTIVE ASSUMPTIONS & RISKSIO #

Assumption Risk (measured as the probability that the assumption will not hold)

1. Institutional Sustainability-Achieving effective long-term conservation of the BMT assumes several environment and development commitments on policies and actions of local collaborators that will affect project. This include the following

a. Local government units (LGUs) and local communities will continue in their willingness as shown through annual budget commitments, to undertake the activities needed to improve long-term resource management and to provide the required and dependable funds and personnel to accomplish the tasks for which they are directly responsible in their coastal areas.

Substantial risk (S)

b. The BEMO will remain committed to coordinate BMT Management Board and the formation of the BMT Master Plan through the guidance of the Management Board presently BEMO is coordinating the committee for improved management of Balicasag Island together with the PTA and PCG.

L

c. Commitments secured during PDF-A stakeholders collaboration workshops to promote improved law enforcement within their areas of responsibility as management units to minimize illegal fishing both near shore and by commercial boats farther offshore will be adhered to.

S

d. Tourism benefits can be harnessed through user fees and appropriate involvement in the industry services to support conservation and coastal resource management through mechanism that are acceptable and practical to implement.

M

e. Long-term success of the management regime will require sustainable financing from a variety of sources such as local government budgets, entry and license fees, local taxes, and enterprise that both generate revenue and provide incentives for conservation. Municipal government budget allocations for coastal management are increasing as understanding about the need increases in Bohol and in the BMT.

M

f. Stakeholders and resource management agencies are willing and able to increasingly take over and carry on conservation management activities as the project progresses. This is clearly shown on Pamilacan where the marine management committee has been active in protecting the marine sanctuary since 1986 and on Balicasag where illegal fishing around the island is rare.

M

2. Financial Sustainability S3. Risk and assumptions

05/07/23 19

document.doc

a. A six-month preparatory phase, to ensure that the local community understands the objectives and parameters of the project; the recognition of BMT as a critical area of biodiversity through a resolution; the establishment of a legal organizational structure; and to undertake specialized area management in collaboration with concerned NGOs, NGAs, private sectors and local government units.

S

b. A signed Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) from the municipalities of Baclayon, Dauis and Panglao recognizing BMT as an area requiring special management and committing to work together for it. The municipalities should each pass an ordinance establishing a municipal management board for BMT consisting of representatives from concerned local communities, FARMCs, barangay POs, NGOs and NGAs. The ordinance should provide that the chairperson of each management board will represent the municipality in each provincial BMT management board.

S

d. Finalize an ordinance from the provincial government of Bohol establishing the BMTMB. The development of this ordinance has been agreed to but the exact powers, functions, duties and responsibilities of the BMTMB will be clearly stated in the ordinance. The organizational flow, structure, and relationship will be detailed in the ordinance.

L

e. Formulation of an integrated Master Plan in a participatory manner while assuring technical rigor in planning and management policies and strategies. L

05/07/23 20

document.doc

DESCRIPTIVE ASSESTMENT (OPTINAL)Please use this space if you wish to provide additional information for the purpose of assessing progress towards the achievement of objectives.

05/07/23 21

document.doc

3. IMPLEMENTATION ISSUESPlease list main challenges experienced during implementation. Please describe adaptation approaches or remedial action either already taken or planned to solve them

1. Snag in Pursuing the Sustainable Financing MechanismThe project has provided technical assistance to Panglao Municipal Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Council (MFARMC) in drafting a Municipal Ordinance for users fee collection, Trust fund (TF) establishment and creation of a CRM Board to govern the TF utilization. The operational mechanisms like deputation of the collectors of the users fees have been incorporated into the ordinance. The draft was forwarded by MFARMC to the Sangguniang Bayan (SB- The Municipal Council) Committee on Fisheries and Agriculture. A copy was furnished to the SB Committee on Laws that has passed approval to the draft ordinance. The draft was already on third reading at the SB but it was not pushed for approval yet because the mayor is apprehensive that his political opponents in the SB may “railroad” it.

The project helped the MFARMC in preparing the survey instrument for users fees/stakeholders. The project would recommend that a neutral and qualified institution or individual would conduct the survey. The project will work both with the Majority and Minority members of the Sangguniang Bayan to assure the passage of the needed ordinance. The project is also exploring other financing mechanisms like the increase of the CRM share from the regular annual municipal budgets. A portion of the funds generated will be utilized for sustainable livelihood as already envisioned in the trust fund to be established.

2. Limitation of Other Stakeholders Participation in the BMT Management Board (BMTMB)

The project works within the legal framework of the Local Government Code and the Fisheries Code in pursuing its goals. The Project Management Office (PMO) believes that the active participation of the 3 mayors of the 3 municipalities covered by the project is essential. When the project design was discussed with them where a Management Board of about 13 to 17 was described, they have disagreed. They were one in saying that they do not want a person or a group to be above them in managing their respective municipal waters as mandated by law because it is they who will go back to the municipal constituents to seek their mandate come election time. They were initially amenable to a BMTMB with the 3 of them as members. The project did not force the issue with them but continue to talk with and convince them that the active participation of the other key stakeholders in the Board is just as essential as theirs and that it will ensure greater effectivity and success for all. In time, the 3 mayors have agreed to a BMTMB with 7 members. The project did not stop with it but is willing to start with that. During the May 7, 2003 meeting with the initially formed BMTMB, the mayors objected to the presentation on the BMTMB concept paper which proposed to expand membership for the BMTMB as reflected in the project document. The intent of expanding the membership is to ensure that all key stakeholders in the BMT are represented in the BMTMB. The two mayors present clearly stated they would get out from the Board if it will have more than 7 members.

The project has decided to slow down on the BMTMB formation given the situation and instead agreed to arrive at tactical “adjustments” on present efforts on

05/07/23 22

document.doc

establishing a Management Board. In the meantime, it was decided that community organizing efforts would be strengthened further following a rights-based approach with the end in view that stakeholder capability, especially, claim-making of their rights for representation (in the BMTMB) would be built up. BANGON, through members of its Board, will actively lobby with the mayors and the provincial government of Bohol to ensue wider representation in the BMTMB. All these should lead to a more balanced configuration in a future BMTMB that adheres to multi-stakeholder approach and processes.

3. Strengthening the Peoples OrganizationIn the first year of the project’s implementation, the pursuit of the technical outputs somehow affected the strengthening of the POs. The recent issue on the BMTMB membership brought to the fore the need to hasten the strengthening of the POs which heavily depends on community organizing. However, the level of skills of community organizing in the context of community based coastal resource management is not present yet with most COs . More training and exposure will have to be provided to reach the desired level. In addition, there are only 10 COs who cover the 24 barangays in the project. The effectiveness of a CO may be limited to only 2 barangays for a deeper organizing work. If the physical and the technical outputs would be added, a CO may effectively handle 1 barangay only.

The PMO together with the implementing NGOs, classified the 24 covered barangays into 12 as focus (where the MPAs are) and the other 12 as service barangays. More efforts will be spent on the focus barangays. An assessment of each CO will also be done soon to determine capacity levels and conduct the additional training needed. Another assessment would be done by the last quarter to determine if the capacity level required from the COs has been achieved. Some decisions will be made after the assessment results are determined. 4. Handling Multiple Partners in Project Implementation

From the usual 1 NGO partner per project, FPE has multiple partners for BMTP. These are BANGON (6 member NGOs are implementers), the Silliman University Marine Laboratory (SUML) and JEP Consultants. The project will pursue an assessment of project implementation by the third quarter. Assessment of PMO and the implementing partners will be included. Based on the assessment, an action plan will be drawn up to improve implementation. 5. The challenge of working with the mayors6.The mayors have had a negative experience with some NGOs that consequently make it hard for them to readily trust any NGO. Somehow, they feel that NGOs generally have agenda different and even possibly opposed to theirs. At the start of the project, they considered only one as the NGO they will allow to implement BMTP. Assured by the project that its partner NGOs would be there to help them, the mayors allowed other NGOs to be in their respective municipalities. They did remind PMO they would withdraw their support should the NGOs do something inimical to them or the community. The relationship has been improving since then and the NGOs were able to get greater cooperation and collaboration with the mayors. Lately however, the mayors made a position during their May 7, 2003 BMTMB meeting that they will resign from the Board if additional members to the 7 that

05/07/23 23

document.doc

they are agreeable with will be added. .This event has caused a strain in the relationship that has been developed with the three local executives. The PMO and the respective NGOs will work for a more open communication with the mayors and win them over to a greater participation of the other key stakeholders in BMT and convince them to welcome additional members of BMTMB.

4. LESSONS LEARNED/GOOD PRACTICEPlease describe briefly the key lessons and examples of good practice that have resulted from project implementation during the year.

1. Patience in establishing and maintaining communications, openness and interactions with major stakeholders like the local government executives and dive shop operators can go a long way in terms of generating understanding and support for what the project intends to do for them.

It takes time to build a working and close relationship with stakeholders but we have to go through the process because nothing substantial on CRM can be achieved without it being clearly established.

2. Information, Education and Communications (IEC) activities can greatly contribute to generating understanding for the Project

A lot of conflict that the project can get or has gotten into is due to misunderstanding and misconceptions about it. Effective IEC does not just cure many of these but prevent them from occurring in the first place. Achieving effective IEC however, is the real challenge.

3. Personal and political differences between and among government officials and elections are realities that community-based resource management projects have to live with.

With election every 3 years, a 5-year project will have to expect a possible change in local government leadership. Along with the personal interest and political affiliation of each of these government officials are the personal and political differences that at times could totally disrupt the normal LGU operations. As the Local Government Code and the Fisheries Code of 1998 have given much of the legal mandate on CRM tasks to the municipal LGUs, a CRM project could not escape from working with them. The Project staff must learn to live and work in the midst of this reality while ensuring that BMT conservation is not compromised. Likewise, preventive measures should be undertaken to limit to the minimum the impact of political and electoral activities to the project.

4. Empowering communities by strengthening the POs in them is still the best way to minimize the impacts of political differences.

Part of the output of the project through the community based context is ecological governance, where the strengthened and empowered constituency can enjoin the governing body to pursue the goals of the project rather than their own interests.

05/07/23 24

document.doc

5. NGOs also have their own inter and intra-politics which somehow affects project implementation.

The processes and approaches of the project have given NGOs greater impetus to set aside their organizations’ differences and realize the common goal, i.e., BMT conservation.

6. Conflicts will always be present in CRM within and among stakeholders. Staff involved in the project should be trained on effective conflict management.

Conflict management skills have to be developed to resolve them.

5. SYNERGIES, DEMONSTRATION AND CATALYTIC EFFECTS 5.1 Have there been any interactions/synergies with similar projects in the country/region during project preparation and/or implementation?In December 2002 the project had a cross visit activity to the Apo island Marine Sanctuary in the province of Negros Oriental. The average annual users fees collected amounting to a P1 million encouraged the participants especially from the Municipal LGUs to collect similar fees for coastal resource conservation. The interaction with the Municipal LGU officials of Dauin, Negros Oriental, where Apo island belongs, made the LGU representatives of the 3 municipalities decide not to place their respective municipal waters under the National Integrated Protected Area System (NIPAS) Act. The very reason was the principle of centralizing the collection of the fees through the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the difficultly of getting the community’s share. The municipality of Dauin has shown them the Marine Sanctuaries they have established using the Local Government Code (LGC) as the legal framework. The fees collected are retained at the municipal level and are shared by the municipality, barangay and the community at a ratio of 20:20: 60 respectively. This was reinforced further when we visited the Fish sanctuary of the municipality of Enrique Villanueva in the province of Siquijor. Its municipal officials led by its mayor showed us their Coastal Resource Management ordinance using the LGC and the Fisheries Code of 1998 as the legal bases. The mayor of Enrique Villanueva and the vice-mayor of Dauin were willing to visit the project to share their experience in CRM and also to learn from the BMT project.

5.2 Describe efforts to disseminate lessons and transferring knowledge that have had or are expected to have demonstration and replication effects.The PMO staff participated in the Second International Tropical Marine Ecosystems Management Symposium (ITMEMS 2) where the staff also shared the project’s experience during workshops and open forums. A possible site for a regional study tour was also identified, i.e. the Bunaken National Park, in Manado, Indonesia. The timing of the activity will have to be decided.

The project also participated in an information sharing network in the country called the Locally Managed Marine Area ( LMMA). The BMT Project is currently working out the membership for the network.

05/07/23 25

document.doc

The project also facilitated the visit of two ITMEMS participants, one from Mauritius and the other from Colombia. They appreciated the project’s activities and pursuits. They also shared their experience. The visitor from Mauritius is interested to invite some project staff to their country.

Through the IEC component, the lessons and information will be shared utilizing tri-media as much as possible. Annual stakeholders meeting is also conducted where project updates are provided to the participants and media folks are invited. The Project is also providing the Bohol Environment and Management Office (BEMO) research and other project data which are inputted into its the municipal and coastal data base which in turn can be accessed by any interested party.

Sharing of lessons and insights were also facilitated through networking with other projects of similar CRM thrusts, such as participation to CBCRM festival and other related events.

5.3 How has the project contributed to bringing about policy or legislation changes in the country, changes in the Implementing Agency or other donor strategies- or private business practices- to give stronger emphasis to global environment issues?

The project was able to facilitate the formulation of local ordinances that would set up and support a functional Marine Protected Area in three municipalities in the BMT. In addition, the opening up of the local executives (mayors) to a multi-sectoral Management Board, is a manifestation of a changing paradigm in local marine resources management in the area.

The project was able to influence the processes for a research project on Biodiversity called Panglao 2003 to be undertaken this year in Panglao Island, Bohol. An agreement was forged to undertake this research by the University of San Carlos (USC) in Cebu City, and the French Museum of Natural History, with funding from the Total Fina Elf Foundation. They were able to get the permission of Panglao municipal mayor but failed to consult with the peopled of the different barangays to be covered. The Project through its implementing NGO partners, BEMO, Office of the Vice Governor, PENRO, BFAR, etc. (the group called itself the BMT Watch) let USC get the prior informed consent of the communities where they will do research, expound clearly the activities they will do and get all the necessary permits first before starting the research activity. USC has apologized for taking the civil society for granted and also promised that the data gathered will be shared with the LGUs, NGOs and POs in the area covered. Recognizing the apologies, the BMT watch agreed to be critical collaborators to the proposed project. In fact, it had called the attention of the national office of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), as mandated by the Wildlife Act to oversee the aquatic resources, to keep watch and ensure that the necessary research agreement permits (by way of MOU) was secured by the proponent in good faith and in good will.

05/07/23 26

document.doc

6. PARTNERSHIP STRATEGIESPlease mention any partnerships/strategic collaboration agreements established with other institutions, civil society organizations or the business community in order to achieve project objectives. If the project works with a private -for profit- organization, please also respond to questions on Annex 1 at the end of this questionnaire.

FPE has signed Partnership Agreements for the period covering April to December 2002 with: the Bohol Alliance of NGOS (BANGON) for Community organizing and CRM related activities; the Silliman University Marine Laboratory (SUML) for habitat assessment and biodiversity inventory; and the Coastal Conservation and Education Foundation (CCEF) for technical assistance to the PMO. It also signed a consultancy services with Jobs, Education and Peace (JEP) Consultants in 2002 for Sustainable Financing mechanisms and feasibility studies. In 2003 FPE has forged agreement with BANGON and JEP. The agreement for SUML is currently being worked out for June to December 2003.

The project has signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the provincial government of Bohol for collaborative activities especially with its arm the Bohol Environment and Management Office (BEMO) to provide technical assistance if possible and sustain the project after its funding life.

The project facilitated the signing of the 3 mayors of a MOA to jointly manage the BMT area in December 2002.

The project has gotten the support of the dive shop operators for CRM conservation even without a written MOA.

The project also supported the Earthwatch activities in BMT area spearheaded by the CCEF. Data gathered from the said activities will be shared by CCEF to the project.

05/07/23 27

document.doc

7. RESOURCES LEVERAGEDApart from the co-financing contributions reflected in the budget, how has the project mobilized additional financial resources for either addressing global environmental concerns or financing baseline activities during implementation? Please indicate the amounts and sources of leveraged resources.

The project is currently working on the leveraging of funds for its alternative livelihood. From the initial discussion, the First Consolidated Bank Foundation Inc. is willing to make available for project participants at least USD $37,265 (P2 million) in addition to the USD $93,162 (P5 million) they are already lending to different individuals in the project site.

The Peace and Equity Foundation (PEF) could also provide livelihood loans to project participants through an intermediary.

We are working out the details and processes to realize this.

The 3 municipalities have included in their respective annual budgets funds for CRM and related activities. The municipality of Panglao has USD $932 (P50,000) for 2002 and USD $932 (P50,000) for 2003. Dauis has USD $1,584 (P 85,000) for 2002 and USD $3,838 (P206,000) for 2003. Baclayon has USD $1,863 (P100,000) for 2002 and USD $1,863 (P100,000) for 2003. In addition, the municipal LGUs are getting more active in CRM activities and are integrating these into their plans.

Exchange rate used is based on UN rates for August 2003 @ USD $ 1 = 53.67 Pesos

05/07/23 28

document.doc

8. SOFT ASSISTANCESoft assistance contributes to the outcome and/or outputs. This section aims to identify activities or issues conducted not envisaged in the workplan yet with concrete results ensuring progress towards the outcome. This section of the PIR/APR contributes to the CO reporting section on “advocacy and policy dialogue” and allows the country office and the project to work in the same direction in advocacy and dialogue. If soft assistance is not an issue for the project or too sensitive to address, this section can be left empty A case in point is the activities facilitated by the project where the various Boholano stakeholders including the BEMO, DENR PENRO, Office of the Vice Governor opposed the Panglao 2003 research activities without getting the prior consent of the involved communities and all the necessary permits. We intend to take this opportunity to sustain the momentum by continuing the BMT Watch and broadening the concerns. These active participation could be mobilized in due time into a broadened stakeholders base for BMT.

9. MONITORING AND EVALUATIONType of Report Date (DD-MMM-YR) Report Available/commentsField VisitsAnnual Project Report

11 March 2002:11Feb 2003

For the year 2001; for the year 2003

Tripartite Review 18 April 2002 Minutes availableMid-Term Evaluation

Scheduled before end 2004

Final Evaluation

10. FINANCIAL INFORMATION- From project start-up to date of this report.Cumulative planned disbursement ($millions)

0.40683679 (as of March 31, 2003)

Cumulative actual disbursement ($millions)

0.26343671 (as of March 31, 2003)

Timing of disbursements (Percentage of planned vs. actual expenditures)

64.75% (as of March 31, 2003)

Date/Period of First Disbursement March 2001

05/07/23 29