President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. leads the call for unity and action in his message at the Climate Change Consciousness Week 2024 Solidarity Night. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. called on Filipinos to act and work together on addressing the pressing challenges posed by climate change during the highlight event of the Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness Week (CCC Week). In his message, President Marcos, who also serves as the Chairperson of the Climate Change Commission, expressed confidence that through unity and shared commitment, Filipinos can rise to the challenge and secure a brighter tomorrow for generations to come. “We are continuously called to press on so that the next generations can still enjoy the lush and bountiful Philippines that we have inherited,” the President said, emphasizing the urgency of climate action. President Marcos highlighted the importance of having a collective vision for a sustainable future. “As we commit to building a Bagong Pilipinas, let our vision be vivid. We want the Philippines that is well taken care of. We want a nation that will remain unshaken no matter the situation. Most importantly, we want to have a people that truly appreciate the abundance of our lands and our seas,” he declared. The President also stressed the significance of CCC Week as a platform to inspire change and spark appreciation for the country's rich natural resources. “May this week pave the way for such an appreciation so that we can act accordingly and adapt to the changing demands of both nature and our citizens,” he remarked. He also called on all sectors of society—government offices, educational institutions, civil society, the business community, and local government units— to intensify efforts toward localizing the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) and building a more sustainable and resilient Philippines. “Together with deeds both big and small, let us stay on our mission for a safer, greener, brighter future for all,” he urged. Finally, President Marcos highlighted the role of the Climate Change Commission, emphasizing how their leadership and collaborative efforts empower communities to adapt, build resilience, and pave a sustainable for all Filipinos. CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje underscored the President’s vision on climate solidarity in his closing remarks. “This gathering is more than a recognition of partnerships, it is a rallying call for action. Climate action and adaptation is a whole-of-nation, a whole-of-society, and a whole-of-world endeavor, and there is much at stake.” The Annual Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness Week is held from 19 to 25 November to raise public awareness of the importance of climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts, in line with the government’s long-term vision for sustainable development and climate resilience. This year’s theme, “Aksyon at Adaptasyon ng Makabagong Henerasyon,” emphasizes the importance of collaborative action in realizing the nation’s climate goals and promoting sustainability. The CCC, under the leadership of President Marcos, remains steadfast in advancing national policies on climate resilience to build adaptive capacity across sectors and communities. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.
The Department of Agriculture, through its AMIA Program, unveiled the #CapturingCRA Photo Exhibit showcasing the climate action and adaptation efforts of AMIA Villages through resilient agricultural practices and technologies. Photo credit: DA Agriculture and Fisheries Information Division 20 November 2024 – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) and national government agencies kicked off the 17th Annual Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness Week (CCC Week), running from November 19 to 25, 2024. With the theme "Aksyon at Adaptasyon ng Makabagong Henerasyon," this year's observance urges all Filipinos to embrace bold, adaptive strategies that prioritize community engagement, resilience, and sustainability in addressing the climate crisis. The Department of Agriculture (DA), through its Adaptation and Mitigation Initiative in Agriculture (AMIA), opened the week with a photo exhibit showcasing inspiring stories from AMIA villages and CREATEs (Climate Resilient Agriculture Technologies) that adopt climate-resilient agricultural practices. DA Undersecretary Roger V. Navarro underscored President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s emphasis on addressing climate change impacts, particularly in agriculture. He stressed DA's commitment to regenerative agriculture, soil rejuvenation, and building a climate-resilient future. He urged all sectors to integrate climate action into their programs. Meanwhile, the Department of Finance (DOF) has been leading efforts to secure increased climate finance. At the on-going 29th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, the DOF has pushed for scaled-up climate finance flows of up to USD1.3 trillion per year for vulnerable nations, particularly in light of the successive typhoons that hit the country the past months. The Environment Management Bureau (EMB ) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) joined the CCC in this year’s commemoration. Regional and provincial offices of the DENR led initiatives such as tree growing and item distribution for mangrove maintenance. The Coast Guard District in Bohol also contributed with a coastal cleanup event in Albay. Civil society organizations such as Save Philippine Seas and academic institutions including the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) and Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU), are also participating in the CCC Week celebration. EVSU’s Department of Natural Sciences has organized a Science Film Festival to educate and inspire climate action. “The work ahead of us remains challenging, but together, multiple stakeholders can make a difference,” Secretary Robert Borje, CCC Vice Chair and Executive Director, remarked. “This week will pave a path towards a stronger and transformative climate action and adaptation.” The CCC Week activities include the 2nd Net Zero Challenge and a high-level discussion on "Intersections between the Law of the Sea and International Environmental Law," featuring Judge Tomas Heidar, President of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS). The week-long commemoration will culminate with the 2nd Philippine Resilience Awards Ceremony and the Partners’ Solidarity Night. Proclamation No. 1667, signed in 2008, designates November 19 to 25 as “Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness Week.” This annual observance aims to raise awareness of climate change and encourage partnerships across all sectors to develop innovative solutions to the climate crisis. For more information about this year’s CCC Week, visit https://cccweek.climate.gov.ph/.
The House of Representatives and the Senate approve the FY2025 budget of the Climate Change Commission and other agencies. (Photos courtesy of Commissioner Albert Dela Cruz and Senate) MANILA, 19 November 2024 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) has lauded the Senate and the House of Representatives’ approval of the agency’s proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2025 amounting to P170,153,000. The budget will support the implementation of the CCC’s key initiatives, such as the localization of the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) and the updating of the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), all geared toward enhancing climate resilience across the country. The funding will also bolster the Commission’s capacity-building programs as well as to facilitate inter-agency coordination and multi-sectoral collaboration in line with its mandate. The CCC expressed appreciation to Senator Imee Marcos and Representative Angelica Natasha Co, who championed the Commission’s budget in their respective chambers. "This budget allows the Commission to advance its work on resilience-building, climate negotiations, and the full implementation of the NAP and NDC. We are especially grateful for the continued support from Representative Angelica Natasha Co, Senator Imee Marcos and Senator Loren Legarda, who have been instrumental in pushing forward these initiatives," CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert Borje said. Senator Imee Marcos, the budget sponsor in the Senate, and Senate Minority Floor Leader Koko Pimentel, highlighted the importance of improving processes of the People’s Survival Fund (PSF), which is crucial for supporting climate resilience projects at the local level. As the member of the PSF Board, the CCC conducts technical reviews of proposals. Thirteen (13) PSF project proposals amounting to PhP 1.3 Billion were approved by the PSF Board. “One best example of an LGU recipient of a grant under the People's Survival Fund, with completed projects, is represented by San Francisco in Camotes Island in Cebu, which is obviously a low income municipality, but has managed to build an ecological based farming model, which is now being replicated elsewhere,” Marcos said. "That's why we really need to support this Commission, budget wise," Pimentel said. Additionally, the Senators expressed support for the CCC’s efforts in climate negotiations, reinforcing the importance of global cooperation as the Philippines navigates critical international climate talks. The budget approval aligns with the priorities set by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., who has consistently called for accelerated climate action and resilience building. The CCC remains dedicated to lead national climate change initiatives and ensure the full implementation of the Republic Act 9729 or the Climate Change Act and related policies. The CCC’s 2025 budget marks a significant step forward in the country’s commitment to climate action, and reinforces the Philippines' efforts to meet global climate goals and protect vulnerable sectors. “We will strengthen efforts to safeguard our communities, protect livelihoods, and enhance our adaptive capacities. This is crucial as we continue to experience the devastating impacts of climate change, including stronger typhoons, rising sea levels, and prolonged droughts,” Borje stated. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.
The Climate Change Commission highlights the crucial role of the business sector to address climate change during the Startup Week 2024 conference in Taguig City. MANILA - The Climate Change Commission (CCC) underscored the importance of a multistakeholder approach in digitalization and sustainable practices for startups to address global climate challenges during the Startup Week 2024 conference. Discussions focused on climate-induced impacts, sustainable business practices, and digital innovations that can make industries become more adaptive to climate realities. Experts from various sectors highlighted the need for sustainable innovation to cultivate a resilient economy. The CCC recognizes climate change as a global governance challenge that affects lives, livelihoods, and our future. It calls for a comprehensive strategy to build climate resilience and promote sustainability in the business sector. Assistant Secretary Romell Antonio Cuenca, CCC Deputy Executive Director, urged the business sector to contribute more to address global climate challenges, and emphasized the CCC’s efforts in mainstreaming science-based policies and making climate data accessible at the local level. "Our collective actions, no matter how small, can create meaningful change. Through partnerships with the private sector and other stakeholders, we aim to foster data-informed climate solutions," he stated. Gillian Santos, CEO and co-founder of Anihan Technologies, emphasized the importance of a whole-of-society approach. “Implementing sustainable practices is crucial, but so is a collective effort. Whether through high-tech solutions or simple innovations, coordinated action is key,” she said. Priya Thachadi, Co-founder and CEO of Villgro Philippines, stressed the urgency of climate finance. “We must prioritize climate finance. Timely investments are essential to address climate challenges,” she remarked. Meanwhile, Secretary Robert E.A. Borje, Vice Chairperson and Executive Director of CCC, highlighted the significant role of the business sector in climate action. “This sector has immense potential to drive transformative change by investing in sustainable practices. May this conference inspire all entrepreneurs, whether startups or seasoned, to commit to climate action,” he mentioned. The five-day event, themed “Isa para sa Bayan: Igniting Filipino Innovation,” took place from 11-15 November 2024, in Taguig, gathering key business players from Southeast Asia. The CCC continues to provide technical assistance and collaborate with stakeholders to empower communities and industries, equipping them with resources and knowledge to build resilience for a climate-ready future. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.
The Climate Change Commission, under the leadership of Secretary Robert E.A. Borje, led the consultation dialogue with civil society organizations in preparation for the upcoming 29th Conference of the Parties in Azerbaijan. The CCC also met with the media and other stakeholders as a prelude to the CCC Week. MANILA, 11 November 2024 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) met with civil society organizations (CSOs) in a consultation dialogue to strengthen the Philippines’ stance ahead of the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. This collaboration strengthens the country’s strategy for global climate negotiations and aligns efforts to build climate resilience at the national level. The consultation focused on key climate workstreams, including Mitigation (Article 6), Adaptation, Global Stocktake, Climate Finance, and Just Transition. These areas are central to the Philippines’ participation in COP29, scheduled from 11 to 22 November 2024, in Baku, Azerbaijan. CSOs such as Aksyon Klima, Oxfam, Reboot PH, Non-Timber Forest Products – Exchange Programme, Center for Energy, Ecology, and Development, Asian Research Institute for Environmental Law, Ecowaste, Miriam College ESI, and Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, played a pivotal role in shaping positions for the Philippine Delegation (PhilDel) to COP29. Additionally, other key partners such as Save the Children Philippines, Manila Observatory, Center for Renewable Energy and Sustainable Technology, Parabukas, Ibon International, and Move as One also joined the dialogue. Secretary Robert E.A. Borje, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director, emphasized the importance of inclusivity in these efforts. “Our goal is to ensure that every voice—especially from the most vulnerable communities—is represented and heard," he stated. To further discuss the Philippines’ participation in COP29, key developments in national climate action as well as the observance of the 17th Annual Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness Week on 19 to 25 November 2024, the CCC held a separate media interface. This event covered key topics such as the localization of the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) and the need for a unified approach to build climate resilience. The UN Women, a development partner of the CCC for the Climate Consciousness Week, underscored the importance of integrating gender perspectives in climate policies. "It's essential to integrate gender into climate initiatives to raise widespread understanding and drive inclusive action," Jonas Gregory Perez, UN Women National Program Officer, said. He also pointed out the disproportionate impact of climate change on women and children. “Four out of five people displaced by the impacts of climate change are women and girls. And during extreme weather disasters, they are 14 times more likely to die than men, mostly due to limited access to information, limited resources, decision-making, and mobility.” The CCC, along with development partners, CSOs and media partners, aims to harness collective expertise to ensure robust climate action. At COP29, the Philippines remains committed to advance climate resilience and represent its most vulnerable communities. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.
