About Us

Integrated Rural Development Foundation

Established in 1989, the Integrated Rural Development Foundation of the Philippines (IRDF) is a national non-governmental organization working to advance the social and economic well-being of rural communities. We work alongside small-scale farmers, fisherfolk, Indigenous Peoples, women and young people to strengthen their organizations, livelihoods and voice in decisions that affect their lives.

IRDF works with partner organizations in Nueva Ecija, Bulacan, Laguna, Batangas, Quezon, Aurora, Sorsogon, Oriental Mindoro, Nueva Vizcaya, Davao Oriental, Davao del Sur, Bukidnon and North Cotabato. Our field offices are located in Sorsogon City; Salcedo, Eastern Samar; Dingalan, Aurora; and Kidapawan City, North Cotabato.

Goals and Strategies

IRDF works toward a future in which rural communities have greater power to shape their development and control the resources they depend on—including land, water, seeds, farm inputs, credit and markets. Strong community organizations, fair access to resources and supportive public policies are essential to improving farm productivity, household incomes and quality of life.

We strengthen grassroots associations, cooperatives and community leaders through organizing, training and capacity development. By helping rural organizations build their skills and leadership, we support them to represent their members, defend their rights and take an active role in local development.

We promote agroecological and sustainable farming practices that protect soil, water and biodiversity while supporting productive farms and local food systems. These approaches are especially important as climate change increases the risks facing small-scale farmers and rural communities.

We also help partner communities build livelihoods and enterprises that can increase household incomes and improve access to food. Through cooperative development, enterprise support, market linkages and appropriate financing, IRDF works to help rural producers gain greater value and control over their work.

When disasters disrupt livelihoods, IRDF supports community recovery and livelihood rehabilitation. We also help communities strengthen their capacity to prepare for future risks, so recovery can build stronger and more resilient livelihoods.