Adoption of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Global Standard for Nature-based Solutions (NbS) and Mainstreaming and Institutionalization of NbS into the Policies, Plans, and Programs of the DENR

DENR Administrative Order No. 2026-30

Subject: Adoption of the IUCN Global Standard for Nature-based Solutions (NbS)

Signed: June 29, 2026; Published: The Manila Times, August 25, 2026; Acknowledged: ONAR, UP Law Center, August 25, 2026

Purpose

Promulgates the IUCN-consistent Global Standard for Nature-based Solutions and guidance for mainstreaming NbS in current and future DENR programs, projects, and activities, consistent with national environmental, climate, disaster risk reduction, local governance, and indigenous peoples' rights laws and the country's international commitments.

Objectives

• Adopt the IUCN Global Standard for NbS to protect, manage, and restore ecosystems while delivering human well-being and biodiversity benefits.
• Mainstream NbS standards, using localized criteria, principles, and guidelines, in ENR policies, plans, programs, projects, and activities across terrestrial, freshwater, coastal and marine, and blue carbon ecosystems.
• Direct the formulation of an NbS framework and roadmap with an implementation plan and monitoring and evaluation.

Scope

Integrates NbS into DENR national policies, plans, and programs, and guides identification of priority projects for regional implementation with LGUs, the private sector, civil society, and communities, including indigenous communities. In support of the National Adaptation Plan, DENR will implement NbS-transformed programs in priority landscapes and seascapes in climate-vulnerable provinces.

Adoption of the Standard

The IUCN Global Standard consists of eight criteria and twenty-eight indicators. Screening in the Philippines adopts localized criteria based on the second edition of the IUCN Global Standard for Nature-based Solutions (2025), which may be tailored to national and local context, including applicable national laws.

Coordination and Oversight

An NbS Technical Working Group is created under the supervision of the concerned Assistant Secretary and the Undersecretary for Climate Change. DENR initially allocates funds for implementation.

Relevance to Project Proponents

Proponents designing ecosystem-based interventions or seeking alignment with DENR programs should expect NbS screening against the localized criteria.

Effectivity

Takes effect fifteen (15) days after publication and upon filing with ONAR, UP Law Center.

Signed by Secretary Atty. Juan Miguel Cuna. Source: official DENR issuance with annexed standard (DAO-2026-30).