Women Empowerment and Climate Change Adaptation in Northern Quezon

After being hit by a devastating typhoon in late 1994, donations coming from international sources poured. The Sisters of Sion Australia, a church-based group in Real Quezon, did not only facilitate the reconstruction of destroyed houses in the affected areas but also maximized the extra money received through establishing a non-profit women’s organization. This study focused on KUMARE Inc., the NGO that emerged in response to the need of helping people become more responsible in protecting their families against climate change. Focus group discussions and key informant interviews were conducted to provide insight on how microfinance aided in empowering women and mitigating the effects of climate change in Northern Quezon. Results showed that aside from increasing the incomes of families, women became active partners in the development and implementation of environmental projects. Their participation had not only promoted environmental awareness among their families but also other sectors of the community involved in their cause, particularly the local government units that included them in disaster risk management. The findings are discussed in the light of gender and development, social change and partnership.

Keywords: climate change, KUMARE Inc., microfinance, social enterprise, women empowerment