In a historic step for Indigenous-led conservation, two Pala’wan Ancestral Domains—Panalingaan-Latud-Taburi and Sowangan—have signed the Philippines’ first carbon agreements under the Exercise of Priority Rights (EPR) process. This landmark initiative, formalized in November 2024, ensures that Indigenous communities retain control over their territories while leveraging carbon financing to protect their forests and sustain their way of life.

Facilitated by Conservation International Philippines in partnership with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, the agreements integrate carbon financing into Ancestral Domain Sustainable Development and Protection Plans (ADSDPPs). By taking this crucial step, these communities are creating a sustainable conservation model–where other ancestral domains can follow their lead in climate action while delivering tangible benefits—clean water, food security, and sustainable livelihoods.

Beyond environmental protection, this model reinforces Indigenous governance, providing communities with the financial resources and technical expertise to combat deforestation, illegal logging, and land degradation. Looking ahead, Conservation International plans to replicate this model across 15 Ancestral Domains in the Mantalingahan Landscape, scaling up Indigenous-led conservation and equitable climate solutions.

Media Recognition

The groundbreaking nature of this initiative has captured international media attention. Coverage from Context (formerly Thomson Reuters Foundation), Daily Mail, and Carbon Pulse has amplified the importance of Indigenous leadership in carbon financing and forest conservation, reaching broad global audiences and specialized environmental sectors alike. This recognition highlights the power of Indigenous-driven solutions in addressing climate change and safeguarding vital ecosystems for future generations.