Deadline: 30-Apr-2026
The LUYON Initiative is funding research and action projects to protect and restore the Leyte Sab-a Basin Peatland in the Philippines while improving community livelihoods. Grants support both academic and civil society-led projects that combine scientific research with practical interventions. Funding ranges from PHP 100,000 to PHP 1,000,000 depending on the category.
Overview of the LUYON Initiative
The LUYON Initiative supports integrated research and on-ground action to strengthen conservation and sustainable management of peatland ecosystems.
The program focuses on the Leyte Sab-a Basin Peatland, a critical ecological site in the Philippines that plays a major role in climate regulation and biodiversity conservation.
It builds on ongoing efforts led by the International Institute of Rural Reconstruction and Visayas State University, with support from the Forest Foundation Philippines.
About the Leyte Sab-a Basin Peatland
- Second-largest peatland in the Philippines
- Covers over 2,100 hectares
- Located across Santa Fe, Alangalang, and San Miguel in Leyte
- Supports over 1,000 households
Ecological Importance
- Stores large amounts of carbon (climate change mitigation)
- Regulates water systems and reduces flooding
- Provides habitat for diverse species
Key Challenges
- Degradation due to unsustainable practices
- Climate change impacts
- Threats to local livelihoods
Key Focus Areas
Peatland Protection and Restoration
- Ecosystem rehabilitation
- Sustainable land-use practices
Socio-Economic Improvement
- Livelihood enhancement for local communities
- Community-based resource management
Knowledge Generation and Awareness
- Research on peatland ecosystems
- Awareness campaigns and knowledge sharing
- Evidence-based policymaking
Program Objectives
- Strengthen peatland-supportive policies and governance
- Promote inclusive and community-driven restoration
- Bridge research and real-world application
- Improve livelihoods of peatland-dependent communities
- Support sustainable ecosystem management
Types of Grants Available
Academe-Led Research Grants
- Eligible applicants: Academic institutions, graduate students
- Funding: PHP 100,000 – PHP 1,000,000
- Duration: Up to 2 years
- Focus: Scientific research and evidence generation
CSO-Led Research Grants
- Eligible applicants: Civil society organizations
- Funding: PHP 100,000 – PHP 500,000
- Duration: Up to 1.5 years
- Focus: Community-based research and action
Who is Eligible?
Eligible Applicants
- Academic institutions
- Graduate students
- Civil society organizations
Key Requirements
- Strong research and implementation capacity
- Focus on peatland conservation and livelihoods
- Engagement with local stakeholders
- Inclusion of gender and social perspectives
Priority Areas
- Barangays located near the peatland and surrounding watersheds
What Types of Projects Are Supported?
Projects must:
- Combine research with practical interventions
- Include clear objectives, methodology, and outcomes
- Engage communities, government units, and stakeholders
- Promote sustainable and inclusive solutions
- Ensure findings are communicated for policy impact
How to Apply
Follow these steps:
- Develop a clear research-for-action proposal
- Define objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes
- Identify stakeholders and engagement strategies
- Prepare budget and timeline
- Submit the proposal through the LUYON Initiative process
What to Expect After Selection
- Funding support for project implementation
- Collaboration with local and academic partners
- Contribution to policy and decision-making
- Dissemination of research findings
- Community-level impact and capacity building
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overly theoretical proposals without practical action
- Lack of community engagement
- Weak methodology or unclear outcomes
- Ignoring gender and social inclusion
- Poor dissemination strategy
Tips for a Strong Proposal
- Integrate research with real-world solutions
- Focus on measurable environmental and social impact
- Engage local communities from the start
- Align with policy and governance needs
- Clearly communicate how results will be used
Why This Grant Matters
Protects Critical Ecosystems
Supports conservation of a major peatland system
Combats Climate Change
Enhances carbon storage and environmental resilience
Supports Local Livelihoods
Improves income and sustainability for communities
Promotes Evidence-Based Policy
Bridges research with decision-making
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the main goal of the LUYON Initiative?
To support peatland conservation and improve community livelihoods through research and action.
2. Who can apply?
Academic institutions, graduate students, and civil society organizations.
3. What is the funding range?
PHP 100,000 to PHP 1,000,000 depending on the grant type.
4. How long can projects last?
Up to 2 years for academe-led projects and 1.5 years for CSO-led projects.
5. Are community partnerships required?
Yes, strong stakeholder engagement is expected.
6. What type of projects are preferred?
Projects that combine research with practical, community-based solutions.
7. Which areas are prioritized?
Communities located near the Leyte Sab-a Basin Peatland and its watersheds.
Conclusion
The LUYON Initiative Grants 2026 provide a unique opportunity to combine research, conservation, and community development in one of the Philippines’ most important peatland ecosystems. By supporting practical, inclusive, and evidence-based projects, the program aims to protect biodiversity, strengthen livelihoods, and drive sustainable environmental change.
For more information, visit IIRR.