Philippine Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan 2024-2040 Launched

The Philippine Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (PBSAP) 2024-2040 was officially launched Wednesday morning on the second day of the August 12-15, 2025, 32nd Philippine Biodiversity Symposium at the Central Philippine University in Iloilo City.

Led by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) OIC – Regional Director 6 Raul L. Lorilla, the launch included the adoption of the PBSAP through Department Administrative Order (DAO) 2025-23, which amends the previous DAO 2016-12.

The PBSAP launch is a significant milestone for the Philippines, as it operationalizes the country’s roadmap for biodiversity conservation and aligns with global conservation targets. The updated PBSAP was developed through nationwide stakeholder consultations and multi-sectoral dialogues led by the Biodiversity Management Bureau (BMB).

Following the launch, a series of regional cluster consultation workshops will be held to disseminate the PBSAP and the DAO, prepare the 7th National Report to the Convention on Biological Diversity, and review the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System (ENIPAS) Act of 2018 (RA 11038). The PBSAP also emphasizes stronger partnerships with Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities, Local Government Units, the private sector, civil society, and the academe.

The Philippine Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (PBSAP) is a comprehensive framework aimed at conserving and sustainably managing the Philippines’ rich biodiversity. It aligns with the global Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and serves as the country’s principal instrument for implementing the CBD at the national level.

The PBSAP 2015-2028 builds on previous efforts and integrates biodiversity conservation into the national development agenda. It includes measurable targets that align with the Aichi Biodiversity Targets, which are global goals for biodiversity conservation. The plan emphasizes the importance of biodiversity in achieving sustainable development and improving the well-being of Filipino communities.

Key features of the PBSAP include:
• Assessment of Biodiversity Status: It provides an overview of the current state of biodiversity in the Philippines, including trends and challenges.
• Integration with National Development: The PBSAP is anchored in the Philippine Development Plan, ensuring that biodiversity conservation is part of the country’s economic growth strategy.
• Policy and Governance: It outlines policies, governance structures, and financing mechanisms to support biodiversity conservation. Strategic Actions: The plan identifies nine priority strategies, such as protecting ecosystems, promoting sustainable use of resources, and enhancing public awareness. Stakeholder Involvement: It emphasizes the role of local governments, communities, and various stakeholders in biodiversity conservation efforts.

The PBSAP also addresses emerging issues like urban biodiversity and agrobiodiversity, making it a dynamic and forward-looking plan. It is aligned with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and aims to halt and reverse biodiversity loss and species extinction by 2040.

The 32nd Philippine Biodiversity Symposium was organized by the Biodiversity Conservation Society of the Philippines (BCSP) and co-hosted by the Central Philippine University (CPU) and Haribon Foundation.* (NDB photos)