These policy measures are currently filed in the House of Representatives for the 17th Congress and are essential for biodiversity financing. The councils are the highest planning and policy-making body that serves as the counterpart of the NEDA board at the subnational level. They play a vital role in co-ordinating and setting direction of local initiatives that could accelerate socioeconomic development in the region. The amount is significant, and these agencies can also carry out activities that are beyond the mandate of DENR.