Pandan scores P86-M climate fund with backing from CatSU ACE-HEMS
October 7, 2025
The project, endorsed by the Climate Change Commission, was backed technically and scientifically by the ACE-HEMS Program of Catanduanes State University, led by Professor VI Dr. Jimmy T. Masagca.
Former Councilor Michael Tidon, one of the lead proponents for the LGU together with former Mayor Raul Tabirara and Vice Mayor Eric Rodriguez, said the proposal addresses both storm surge and drought risks—challenges long faced by Pandan’s coastal and upland farmers.
The PSF grant covers the twin-pillar initiative: mangrove rehabilitation in six barangays and climate-smart farm infrastructure that includes solar irrigation, gravity-fed water systems, and greenhouses. A mangrove nursery in Brgy. Balagñonan and a new agri-learning center are also in the pipeline.
Over 1,200 local residents stand to benefit, including fisherfolk and farmers linked to 30 people’s organizations across the municipality.
In a related development, Baras town also moves forward with its own ₱7-M PSF proposal, now up for field appraisal—another mangrove-driven climate solution in the works, also guided by Climate Change Commission climate science experts.
Pandan's funding approval places Catanduanes in the national spotlight as a rising model in grassroots climate resilience, with the University, local government, and community groups working in stride.