Canada Fund for Local Initiatives: Strengthening Communities, Advancing Rights in the Philippines

Every year, Canada partners with local, community-based organizations around the world to advance shared values such as human rights, climate resilience and inclusive governance.

- DAVID HARTMAN

In the Philippines, these partnerships have taken root and flourished through the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI)—a modest yet powerful small-grants program that supports grassroots efforts to improve lives and protect the planet.

This year, I am pleased to announce that six dynamic Filipino organizations from Luzon, the Visayas and Mindanao will receive support from CFLI. Their work—whether in marine research, electoral peacebuilding, digital safety, gender equality or community storytelling—reflects the richness of civil society in the Philippines and the courage of individuals committed to positive change.

But first, some context.

CFLI was established 50 years ago as a global program of the Canadian government. Its goal is simple but ambitious: to empower local organizations—those closest to the issues—to design and lead projects that address pressing development challenges.

In the Philippines, CFLI has been supporting dozens of initiatives since it started in the country almost 40 years ago—from advancing Indigenous Peoples' rights to promoting women's participation in peace processes. Over time, it has evolved into a key tool to reflect Canada's centerpiece policies—from its feminist international assistance policy to the Indo-Pacific Strategy—supporting efforts that are inclusive, sustainable and rights-based.

This year's selected projects continue that tradition of excellence and impact: