MANILA, 30 May 2023 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) emphasized the importance of gender-responsive climate policies and programs  through a Gender and Development (GAD) Agenda Workshop, which will serve as the agency’s roadmap in setting its gender-responsive climate initiatives. As part of its commitment to mainstream gender in climate action, the CCC conducted a series of workshops from February to May of this year for the members of its GAD Focal Point System (GFPS). In her welcome remarks, Commissioner Rachel Anne S. Herrera, CCC GFPS Chairperson, emphasized the importance of gender-responsive climate policies and programs. “The importance of gender-responsive policies and programs cannot be overstated. We need to ensure that our policies and programs are designed with a gender lens, promoting equality, and empowering women and other marginalized genders. We need to recognize and address the unique challenges faced by different genders in our society, especially when these are results of climate change issues,” Commissioner Herrera stressed. During the first leg of the workshop held in February, the GFPS members were introduced to fundamental GAD concepts, with emphasis on the use of the Gender Mainstreaming Evaluation Framework (GMEF) tool which measures the extent of the gender mainstreaming efforts of the Commission. The second leg held this month focused on the integration of gender concerns into the design and subsequent implementation of CCC programs and projects using the Harmonized Gender and Development Guidelines (HGDG) Design, and the Program and Project Implementation, Management and Monitoring and Evaluation (PIMME) Checklists, respectively. The remaining days of the workshop were solely dedicated to the development of the CCC GAD Agenda. “The CCC shall continue these capacity development programs in order for us to effectively integrate gender considerations throughout the planning, financing, and implementation stages of policies and programs that will strengthen women’s capacity to protect and nurture the well-being of their respective communities from the impacts of climate change,” CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje emphasized. For more information about the CCC’s gender and climate change initiatives, visit https://niccdies.climate.gov.ph/gender-and-development.

(Photo courtesy of the Presidential Communications Office) President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. vows to include climate resilience in his administration’s social and infrastructure projects during his speech at a reception hosted by the Asian Development Bank MANILA, Philippines 22 May 2023 – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) lauded President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s pronouncement emphasizing the administration’s commitment to climate resiliency and sustainability in all social and infrastructural projects. It is a clear articulation and instructions on the President’s vision for a climate smart and climate resilient Philippines. The President vowed to implement resiliency measures in the Philippines in the areas of water supply, sanitation, energy and transport systems, and agriculture and food production. These areas are among the priorities identified by the CCC in its National Climate Change Action Plan (NCCAP). NCCAP outlines a long-term program and strategies for climate change adaptation with the national development plan for 2011 to 2028. It focuses on seven thematic priority areas: food security; water sufficiency; ecosystem and environmental stability; human security; climate-smart industries and services; sustainable energy; and knowledge and capacity development. Pres. Marcos said, “Our goal is still to evolve our economy into one that is defined by sustainability, climate resilience, responsiveness and, of course, inclusivity. I also spoke about my administration's eight-point socio-economic agenda, which laid the blueprint for the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) for 2023 to 2028.” Under the Marcos Administration, a specific chapter on climate change and resilience was devoted in the Philippine Development Plan (PDP 2023-2028), a whole-of-government approach welcomed by the CCC. In chapter 15 of the PDP (2023-2028), titled Accelerate Climate Action and Strengthen Disaster Resilience, it identifies the goal for communities, institutions, and the natural and built environment to be “more resilient to the impacts of natural hazards and climate change” by 2028. CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director (VCED) Robert E.A. Borje pointed out that President Marcos’ guidance will further strengthen the commitment of the Philippine Government to deliver on key transformative climate actions. “The PDP Chapter 15 reflects the Philippine Government’s commitment and dedication to enhance the nation’s overall resilience to climate change and its impacts, putting a premium on the need for integrated and comprehensive climate action between and among government, partners, and stakeholders,” he said.  For FY2023, P453.1 billion has already been tagged for climate change expenditure by National Government Institutions for their adaptation and mitigation programs. Representing a 56% increase from FY2022’s P289.7 billion budget, this is “an indication of of the priority of the Administration given to transformative climate change agenda, as laid out by President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.,” VCED Borje added. The President made this announcement at a reception hosted for him by the Asian Development Bank on May 22, Monday, emphasizing that “climate change can, will and already is unleashing nature’s fury upon our communities and our people.” The Philippines ranked first in the World Risk Index 2022 among 193 countries, proving our country’s vulnerability to climate change. Pres. Marcos also emphasized the important role of partnerships between the government, private sector and other stakeholders addressing the climate crisis. “We say all hands on deck in order to make the plan work. Whole-of-government and whole-of-society approaches, public-private partnerships, international collaborations shall be adopted as necessary,” he said. To which CCC VCED Borje added, “True to the principle of whole-of-nation and inclusive approach in conducting our policy work, we will constantly foster more meaningful convergence among different sectors and stakeholders, so we could all work together, pool our resources, knowledge and expertise. We all need to further scale up climate action, because it is our life, livelihood and future that are at stake.” For more information on the Climate Change Commission’s mainstreaming activities, visit https://climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.

Climate Change Commission Deputy Executive Director Romell Antonio O. Cuenca presented the CCC's plans and priorities for the years 2023-2027 at the "Carbon Emission Reduction: What Can We Do?" event organized by the American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines MANILA, 20 May 2023 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) highlighted the important role of private sector in accelerating just and equitable transition towards low-carbon, sustainable development by means of investment-led climate action. In the American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines’ (AmCham) “Carbon Emission Reduction: What Can We Do?” forum, the CCC presented the Philippine government’s plans and priorities on climate change, to guide climate investments from private and business sectors. “The Philippine government, through the Climate Change Commission, is ramping up whole-of-government, whole-of-society, and whole-of-world approaches in addressing climate change,” CCC Deputy Executive Director Romell Antonio O. Cuenca said. He added, “Towards more collective and transformative climate action, the CCC further strengthens its collaboration with sectors and stakeholders, including private and business sectors, to catalyze climate investments.” Guided by President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos, Jr., the CCC’s priorities include the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) formulation, Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) implementation, and Long-term Strategy development. These priorities are anchored on policies set forth by the Commission, including the National Framework Strategy on Climate Change and its National Climate Change Action Plan, the National Climate Risk Management Framework, and ongoing work on Green Jobs and of the Interagency Task Force on Sustainable Finance. Cognizant of the crucial role of various sectors in further advancing climate action, the CCC established a contact group, ‘CONNECT: Communicating Opportunities to Network, Navigate, and Explore Climate Transformation,’ composed of private sector partners. It creates a venue to discuss potential collaborations on specific climate issues. “The CCC continues to build and strengthen ties with key sectors and stakeholders, so we can collectively advance our pace and level towards national climate resilience,” CCC Deputy Executive Director Cuenca said. He added, “Let us work together to find climate solutions that are sustainable, innovative and transformative, and ensure implementation and deployment of these solutions through adequate and quality climate investments.” One focus area for decarbonization is the power sector. In the World Bank Group’s Philippines Country and Climate Development Report, it was estimated that Php 3.4 trillion pesos of investments are needed for power sector decarbonization. During the event, AmCham members showcased sustainability and decarbonization solutions being implemented by various multinational companies and enterprises in the country, including in areas of energy, transport, and industries. Present were representatives from Unilever and Mondelez, members of Net Zero Carbon Alliance, professional services firm Deloitte, and local small and medium enterprises (SMEs) which shared strategies on carbon emissions reduction and transition to cleaner, more sustainable business practices. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit the CCC website at https://climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.

Climate Change Commission Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje and Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency Executive Director Donald James D. Gawe during the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement MANILA, 17 May 2023 – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) and the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA) committed to maximize the potential of volunteerism and community participation in addressing climate change in the country in a Memorandum of Agreement. Under the agreement, the CCC and PNVSCA will jointly organize, support, and participate in programs and activities to promote volunteerism in mainstreaming climate change resiliency, aligned with the national government’s whole-of-society approach to sustainable development. CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director (VCED) Robert E.A. Borje expressed enthusiasm over the partnership with PNVSCA. He highlighted the importance of volunteerism in activities that improve community resilience and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. "We need a paradigm shift in our mindset towards volunteerism, as it is a tool in building and advancing policies to avoid, minimize, and address climate risks. We must appreciate that volunteerism should be present not only in times of crisis, but also in fostering holistic formation and development. With this, volunteerism serves as a catalyst for realizing progress and creating a sustainable impact," VCED Borje emphasized. Meanwhile, PNVSCA Executive Director Donald James D. Gawe said that the partnership will help mobilize more volunteers and stakeholders to support the country's climate change agenda. “This is also a good opportunity not only to raise awareness, but as we engage more partners from the private sector, civil society organizations, academe, national government agencies, and local government units, this partnership can encourage more stakeholders to create and establish their own volunteering mechanism to build and enhance the climate resilience of their respective communities,” said Dr. Gawe. The collaboration is expected to provide an effective mechanism to ensure that climate change initiatives are integrated across different sectors and communities. The CCC and PNVSCA endeavor to launch activities during the annual celebration of the Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness Week in November, and International Volunteer Day and the National Volunteer Month in December. The CCC is mandated to formulate and implement policies, plans, and programs related to climate change adaptation and mitigation, while the PNVSCA is tasked with promoting and developing volunteerism as a strategy for national development. The MOA was signed by CCC VCED Robert E.A. Borje and PNVSCA Executive Director Donald James D. Gawe during a ceremony held at the CCC office in Manila. Through this partnership, both agencies will create greater synergy and cooperation among government agencies and other stakeholders towards accelerating the transition to a climate-resilient and sustainable future for the Philippines. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit https://climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.

Manila, Philippines, 17 May 2023 — In the Climate Vulnerable Forum (CVF) Regional Consultation for Asia, the Philippines underscored the importance of global collective action to transform developing countries’ vulnerabilities to climate resilience. “It is only through global collective action that we can transform our developing countries' vulnerabilities, and avert, minimize and address existing losses and damages in order to achieve climate resilience,” Climate Change Commission (CCC) Vice Chairperson and Executive Director (VCED) Robert E.A. Borje said. Under the Ghana Presidency, the CVF conducted regional consultations in the lead up to the 58th Session of the Subsidiary Bodies of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), and the 28th Meeting of Conference of Parties to the UNFCCC. Prioritizing the following elements: Global Stocktake, accelerated adaptation action, loss and damage, 1.5 degrees Celsius ambition, and climate finance, VCED Borje emphasized the need to anchor climate action on the principles of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities, and climate justice. “Allow me to reiterate the importance of working on the principle of climate justice – for those who are least responsible for climate change, those with the least resources, and those who are most vulnerable and at risk, the world has to do more,” said VCED Borje. He added, “Conversely – for those most responsible for climate change, with the most resources, they need to do more. For us, this is climate justice.” The CVF is composed of 58 vulnerable nations including the Philippines, and is currently chaired by the government of Ghana. In 2015, the Philippines chaired the CVF. Under its presidency, the Vulnerable 20 (V20) group was officially founded, and the #1.5 degrees Celsius Campaign was launched ahead of the Conference of the Parties in Paris. During the consultation, the Philippines reiterated its support and commitment to the CVF and V20, as part of collective efforts in attaining the global climate agenda. “The CCC and our allies in Congress, most especially Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda who also serves as a CVF Ambassador for Parliaments, remain committed to the work of CVF and V20 in promoting ambitious climate action to safeguard the world’s most vulnerable, developing nations,” VCED Borje said. The CCC also serves as the CVF National Focal Point of the Philippines, as the Department of Finance in the V20. The CVF Regional Consultation for Asia was held in preparation for the upcoming climate change negotiations in June and November 2023, in Bonn, Germany and Dubai, United Arab Emirates, respectively. For updates on the Philippines participation in international climate negotiations, visit the website of the CCC at https://climate.gov.ph.

Paete, Laguna Mayor Ronald B. Cosico submits the town’s Local Climate Change Action Plan for 2021-2026 to CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje MANILA, 10 May 2023 – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) continues to work with local government units (LGUs) in a collective effort to address climate change and to work toward a more resilient and sustainable future for the Philippines. The CCC welcomed the local government of Paete, Laguna’s submission of the Local Climate Change Action Plan (LCCAP) for 2021-2026 and Annual Investment Program (AIP) for 2023, which were handed personally by Paete Mayor Ronald B. Cosico. The LCCAP outlines the LGU's strategies and actions to address climate change impacts on their community, infrastructure, and economy, while the AIP contains the programs, activities, and projects (PAPs) of the LGU, including on climate action. The CCC commended the LGU of Paete for submitting its LCCAP and AIP, and will further collaborate with the town in enhancing its plans and programs, as aligned with the national framework and international commitments on climate resilience. "Patuloy na susuportahan ng CCC ang bayan ng Paete sa pagpapatupad ng mga aksyon sa pagbabago ng klima at matiyak ang katatagan, hindi lang ng Paete, kundi ng buong bansa," said CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje. According to Mayor Cosico, the submission of the LCCAP is a significant milestone for the town as it demonstrates the LGU's commitment to protect and enhance the well-being of its constituents. "Ang pagbabago ng klima ay isa sa mga bantang kinakaharap ng aming komunidad. Sa pamamagitan ng LCCAP, makakagawa kami ng mga konkretong hakbang upang makapag-adapt at mabawasan ang mga epekto nito," he said. Paete is one of the LGUs in the Philippines that is regularly affected by climate change impacts such as typhoons, flooding, and landslides. By submitting its LCCAP to the CCC, the LGU is now eligible for various technical and financial assistance, including access to the People's Survival Fund (PSF). The PSF is a domestic funding mechanism that supports the implementation of climate resilience and adaptation programs of local communities in various areas such as agriculture, water resource management, and disaster risk reduction and management. Mayor Cosico shared the ongoing initiatives and best practices of the town in climate resilience, including reforestation, sustainable agriculture and investment in renewable energy. Paete was among the awardees of the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) in 2019. To further boost its local climate change initiatives, the CCC will connect Paete LGU with relevant development partners. The CCC will work with the local government to create a climate-resilient, climate-smart, and sustainable community in Paete, which can serve as a model for other LGUs in the country. The LCCAP is a key deliverable of the LGUs to the CCC, as mandated by the Republic Act 9729 or the Climate Change Act, and Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Memorandum Circular No. 2021-068. The CCC endeavors to enable all LGUs in the country to develop, implement, and enhance LCCAPs that address the specific climate change risks facing their communities. As of 17 April 2023, 82.57% or 1,416 out of 1,715 LGUs in the country have already submitted their LCCAPs to the CCC. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit https://climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPHL.

CCC Vice Chair and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje and NPC President Fernando Martin Y. Roxas lead the signing of Memorandum of Agreement between CCC and NPC at NPC Headquarters in Diliman, Quezon City. The CCC organizes and participates in various reforestation activities with its partners. QUEZON CITY, Philippines – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) is ramping up implementation of strategies to mitigate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and other human drivers of global warming by lessening carbon footprint. The recent signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the CCC and National Power Corporation (NPC) signifies the Commission’s commitment to advance the Philippines’ Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) of 75 percent GHG emissions reduction and avoidance by 2030. The partnership further advances the Philippine government’s Carbon Neutrality Program (CNP) – a climate change mitigation strategy through nature-based solutions. The CCC-NPC partnership on carbon neutrality also aims to rehabilitate open and denuded upland forest, including the streambank identified by NPC within the Caliraya-Lumot Watershed Forest Reserve (CLWFR), through the reforestation of 25 hectares of land in Paete, Laguna; protect and maintain established reforestation project in CLWFR; and support other climate change-related initiatives of the CCC. Forests play a critical role in mitigating climate change by absorbing and storing carbon dioxide through the process of photosynthesis. Trees absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it in their biomass and soil. This process, known as carbon sequestration, helps to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, which is a major contributor to global warming. The CNP, formalized in June 2022, aims to facilitate a science-based forestation initiative to increase the country’s carbon sequestration capacity through nature-based solutions, including tree planting and growing. The MOA supports the CNP in advancing carbon neutrality among Filipinos, and implementing climate change initiatives related to forestry and sustainable natural resources management. The MOA signing was led by CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director (VCED) Robert E.A. Borje and NPC President, Fernando Martin Y. Roxas. "We hope that this MOA can be a model agreement that may be adopted by local government units, NGAs, and private sector. This approach has clear and measurable targets, and will help steer all stakeholders towards concrete results through smaller carbon footprints of organizations, agencies, and communities,” said VCED Borje. With smaller carbon footprints or emissions in the atmosphere, global warming may be maintained and slowed down, and climate change impacts particularly on vulnerable developing countries like the Philippines will be reduced. This is the first agreement of NPC with a national government agency. Under the CCC-NPC five-year partnership, at least 15,625 native trees will be planted to sequester around 2,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) per year. It will also promote biodiversity conservation, water conservation, and sustainable livelihoods for local communities in Paete, Laguna. With continued efforts, the CCC endeavors to be carbon-neutral by 2032, calculated based on agency-level accumulated GHG emissions. "We believe that this partnership with the CCC is a significant step towards achieving our goals and contributing to the global and national climate change targets," NPC Pres. Roxas highlighted. The CCC already organized and participated in various reforestation activities with its partners. Through the CNP, the CCC expects more agreements and partnerships to be forged between and among government agencies, private partners and stakeholders toward the goal of carbon neutrality. "Achieving carbon neutrality requires a whole-of-nation and whole-of-society approach. It is necessary to mobilize every sector and community to do their share in reducing their carbon footprint and pursue development in a sustainable, climate- friendly manner,” VCED Borje said. Part of the CCC’s Earth Month Commemoration, CCC and NPC signed the MOA on 26 April 2023 at the NPC Headquarters in Diliman, Quezon City. CCC Strategic Partnership Division Chief Alexis Lapiz, NPC Vice President and General Counsel Atty. Melchor P. Ridulme, and NPC Vice President for Corporate Affairs Rene B. Barruela, also joined the event. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit https://climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.

MANILA, Philippines – Interested institutions and organizations may still submit nominations for People's Survival Fund Board Sectoral Representatives until 10 May 2023 (Wednesday). The PSF Board, chaired by the Secretary of the Department of Finance, will onboard three (3) new representatives from the Academic and Scientific Community, Business, and Non Government Organizations sectors. Nominees must: (a) be a citizen and resident of the Philippines for at least two years prior to their nomination; (b) have at least seven years of proven experience, exposure, and participation in research and development, climate change adaptation and mitigation, and other climate change-related activities; (c) have at least three years of experience in program/project development and evaluation; (d) have not been previously selected as a sectoral representative to the PSF Board, pursuant to Section 4 of the Implementing Rules and Regulations of the Climate Change Act; and (e) be a person with known probity, integrity, and good moral character. Selection will be based on the competence, experience, and integrity of the nominees, for appointment by the President.   Nominations and inquiries may be sent through the PSF Unit of the Climate Change Commission PH via [email protected]

Senator Loren Legarda, CCC Commissioner Rachel Anne S. Herrera, SM Supermalls Vice President for Corporate Compliance Group Liza Silerio, former PCW Chairperson Sandra Montano, Dr. Emma Porio, and BFP Chief Superintendent Belinda Ochave join the launch of Women's International Network on Disaster Risk Reduction in the Philippines MANILA, Philippines – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) underscored the role of women in climate action, particularly in mainstreaming gender-responsive adaptation and mitigation measures such as through increasing women’s participation in decision-making processes. This was highlighted by Commissioner Rachel Anne Herrera, also the CCC Gender Focal Point System Chairperson, during the official launch of the Women's International Network on Disaster Risk Reduction-Philippines (WIN DRR PH). “The CCC welcomes the WIN DRR as a galvanizing force of women visionaries and leaders in the continuing work to mainstream gender in our national roadmaps toward climate and disaster resilient development. With women at the forefront, we can be assured that community-based interventions to adapt to climate and disaster impacts are equitable and effective,” Commissioner Herrera said. "We need to integrate gender considerations throughout the planning, financing, and implementation stages of policies and programs on climate change. The CCC will continue to ensure that women's voices are heard, and their needs are addressed in the fight against the climate crisis,” CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje added. In her keynote speech, Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda reiterated that climate change affects men and women differently, with women being more vulnerable due to cultural and societal roles and prevailing gender inequalities. Legarda, one of the founding members of WIN DRR, emphasized the indispensable contribution of women—from grassroots groups to global organizations—which plays a crucial role in climate action and disaster risk reduction, both as leaders and as agents of change. Aside from leadership and decision-making roles, women have unique knowledge and skills in embedding sustainable practices in food production, water collection, and energy management. “Women should be provided the needed support to have the confidence and wherewithal to lead and be at the forefront of efforts to improve Filipino communities and pursue initiatives that will contribute decisive actions towards the nation’s sustainable and equitable progress,” Legarda said. Senator Legarda authored Republic Act 9729, or the Climate Change Act, which mandates a gender-responsive approach in designing and implementing all climate change and renewable energy efforts, plans, and programs. WIN DRR PH is a growing professional network that supports women working in disaster risk reduction in all their diversity. The overall goal of this movement is to empower women and enhance their role in decision-making in disaster risk reduction in the Asia-Pacific region by promoting and supporting women’s leadership. The Philippine Chapter of the WIN DRR, in its primary stage, is being shaped under four pillars: governance, policymaking, education, and community capacity building. Under these pillars, WIN DRR PH aims to coalesce women leaders across multiple sectors under the common goal of disaster risk reduction. SM Supermalls Vice President for Corporate Compliance Group Liza Silerio, former PCW Chairperson Sandra Montano, Dr. Emma Porio, member of the CCC’s National Panel of Technical Experts, and BFP Chief Superintendent Belinda Ochave joined Senator Legarda and Commissioner Herrera in the event. Held on 27 April 2023 at the Director’s Club, SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City, WIN DRR is supported by the United Nations Office of Disaster Risk Reduction, the Australian Government in the Philippines, SM Prime Holdings, Inc., and Asia Pacific College.

The National Innovation Council (NIC) announces the call for nominations for the 7th Executive Member with expertise in Climate Change and Innovation.  Pursuant to Section 6 of RA 11293 or the Philippine Innovation Act, the creation of NIC comprising of 18 national government agencies shall include seven (7) Executive Members from the ranks of business, entrepreneur, academe, and the scientific community, and at least one (1) of whom shall be a woman.  During its 4th regular meeting on 21 February 2023, the NIC agreed to endorse 6 nominees as Executive Members to the Office of the President (OP) for appointment.     Recognizing the importance of climate change and its impact on innovations and sustainability, the NIC agreed to fill the remaining seat for an NIC Executive Member with a Climate Change Expert, who will bring an environmental and sustainability perspective to the Council and contribute to the country’s innovation initiatives. Nominees for the 7th NIC Executive Member must be endorsed by a nominating party that is: (a) duly registered or licensed business organization, research development institution, or academic institution; and (b) preferably with nation- or region-wide coverage of services or operations related to addressing climate change.   For more details, please check the documentary and eligibility requirements through this link: bit.ly/NICEMCallFullDetails.

QUEZON CITY, Philippines – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) conducted the Annual Climate Change Expenditure Tagging (CCET) and Risk Resiliency Program (RRP) Orientation for National Government Agencies (NGAs) to further intensify climate change and disaster risk reduction budget programming by agencies. CCC Commissioner Albert Dela Cruz and Commissioner Rachel Anne Herrera highlighted the importance of further strengthening climate actions by NGAs, in view of the country’s increasing climate vulnerability. “The CCC and DBM are working together to build the capacity of government institutions in mainstreaming climate change, through public resources,” said Commissioner Dela Cruz. “Strengthening climate actions through enabling policies, programs and implementing projects is crucial to combat the climate crisis,” Commissioner Herrera added. The Annual CCET-RRP Orientation was held to provide up-to-date information on NGAs’ climate investments and budget tagging. Earlier this year, the DBM issued National Budget Memorandum No. 145 and No. 146 to guide agencies in coordinating their resources toward achieving banner government programs such as climate change and risk resiliency. “Let us intensify climate change planning and programming and increase the convergence and implementation of the climate change and disaster risk reduction programs, activities, and projects through the NCCAP [National Climate Change Action Plan] and Risk Resiliency Program,” said DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman. For 2023, the government allocated PHP 464.50 billion for climate change adaptation and mitigation. Sixty-seven percent (i.e., PHP 311.11 billion) are RRP convergence projects. To ensure that the Risk Resiliency Program is aligned with the NCCAP, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) set up a Technical Review Committee that includes the CCC. The CCET tracks and monitors climate-tagged budgets in annual appropriations. For FY 2023, total appropriations for climate change accounts for PHP 464.49 billion, 60.32 percent higher than FY 2022. The event was participated in by 99 NGAs with mandates on climate change and disaster risk management. It was organized by the CCC and DBM, with Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the Governance Commission for GOCCs, and DENR, to raise the national government instrumentalities’ (NGIs) capacity to tag, identify, and advance public resources for climate action. These NGIs include GOCCs, NGAs, and SUCs. For more information about the CCET, visit https://climate.gov.ph/ and https://niccdies.climate.gov.ph/climate-finance/ccet.

The Department of Finance, as Chair of the People's Survival Fund Board, extended the deadline of LGUs’ proposal submissions until 14 April 2023. To access the People’s Survival Fund, LGUs shall complete the following documentary requirements: 1) Letter of Intent; 2) Accomplished Project Proposal Template; 3) Adaptation references such as Climate Risk and Vulnerability Assessments, CCA-DRR-Enhanced Comprehensive Land Use/ Development Plans, and Local Climate Change Action Plan; and 4) the Annual Investment Plan. Submissions shall be made through the PSF Board Secretariat in the DOF through <[email protected]>. For more information about the PSF, visit the CCC’s website at www.climate.gov.ph.

MANILA, Philippines — To cap off this year’s National Women's Month, the Climate Change Commission PH (CCC) underscored the significance of developing women's skills and the necessity of their active participation in policies and programs in order to transition to gender-responsive climate-smart agriculture. "Climate change exacerbates the already-existing gender inequalities in the agriculture sector and beyond, but if the considerable contribution that women make to agriculture is recognized, climate change may also present significant opportunities for women to become agents of change," said CCC Commissioner Rachel Anne S. Herrera, Chairperson of the CCC’s GAD Focal Point System. The UN Climate Change (UNFCCC) through its Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) reported the need to take into account the differentiated impacts of climate change such as on women and men, local communities and indigenous peoples, in climate policies, plans and action. In an earlier visit to the agricultural community of Brgy. Rayuray, Batac, Ilocos Norte, gender-related concerns in the agriculture sector were discussed. “Kapag sinabing magsasaka, ang madalas pumapasok sa isip ng tao ay lalaki. Kaming mga kababaihan ay sangkot din sa produksyon ng pananim, pag-aalaga ng hayop, at maging sa pagpo-provide ng pagkain, tubig, at enerhiya sa tahanan. Bukod po sa aming pamilya, inaalagaan din namin ang kaunlaran ng aming komunidad at nagiging sandigan sa sistema ng agrikultura,” shared Infenita Puyot, one of the female farmers. (When we say farmers, what often comes to mind is a man. We women are also involved in crop production, animal production, and even providing food, water, and energy for our homes. In addition to our family, we also take care of the development of our community and have become a pillar of the agricultural system.) “A gender-responsive approach to climate change resilience within the agricultural sector is crucial to address the differing levels of vulnerability experienced by women through empowerment,” said CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje. Some of the strategies identified by the CCC toward gender mainstreaming in the agriculture sector include ensuring that: ● Gender and development (GAD) is incorporated into the national policies concerning agriculture and climate change; ● Women have equitable access to the resources and information required to implement climate-smart agriculture; ● Women are involved in the local planning, policy and budget processes; ● Gender-responsive climate finance is available through increased resource allocation and capacity-building programs; and ● There is an increased collaboration between relevant government agencies, and consultations are conducted with women who work in agriculture, using a bottom-up approach to facilitate knowledge sharing and awareness raising among policymakers. The CCC itself has observed gender balance and women's representation within the organization. The Agency is composed of three Commissioners, including Commissioner Herrera. Several policies were also put in place by the CCC, such as the Commission Resolution No. 2019-02, which strengthens the framework for gender-based approaches in the formulation and implementation of national climate change policies, plans, programs, and activities, including the generation of sex-disaggregated data and the conduct of gender analysis. The Resolution also established the need for coordination among key agencies in promulgating policies, directives, and initiatives supportive of the collaborative approach to accomplish its objectives. A GAD Focal Point System was also created to monitor GAD mainstreaming efforts in climate actions, and has appointed gender focal points to international forums. The CCC continues to work closely with the Philippine Commission on Women, the Department of Agriculture, and other stakeholders in order to strengthen women’s capacity to protect and nurture the well-being of their respective communities from the impacts of climate change. For more information on the CCC’s mainstreaming activities, visit the website http://climate.gov.ph.

MANILA, Philippines – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) is optimistic as the results of the fourth quarter 2022 Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey showed an increasing awareness among Filipinos on climate change, including initiatives they can do to reduce its impact. The survey revealed that four out of five Filipinos (81%) were aware of climate change, an increase from 74% in a similar survey conducted in March 2017 and from 66% in March 2013. The survey further revealed that 93% of Filipinos said they have personally experienced the impacts of climate change in the past three years. Eighty-eight percent (88%) of Filipinos agreed that they could do something to reduce climate risk, the survey continued. Among the solutions to reduce the impacts of climate change, planting trees and protecting forests and saving energy at home ranked the highest, with both garnering 95%. These were followed by walking, cycling or taking public transportation (93%), reducing, reusing, repairing and recycling (91%), and reducing food waste (86%). CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director (VCED) Robert Borje urges people to "take collective, urgent, and transformative action to adapt to and mitigate climate change effects because the lives, livelihood, and future of the next generations are at stake." This SWS survey is a reflection of the collective effort of government, civil society, private sector, and all stakeholders in mainstreaming climate change in national, local, and sectoral development plans. The CCC, as the lead policy-making body of the government on climate change, continues to ramp up its information and education campaigns and introduced innovations in the delivery of its capacity development programs through partnerships with national government agencies, local government units, research institutions, and the private sector. Greenhouse gas inventory training, climate change expenditure tagging, local climate change adaptation plan, and other youth-related programs are some of the CCC’s mainstreaming activities. “The CCC will continue to further strengthen its public-private-community engagements to further strengthen public awareness and understanding of climate change and improve the quality of risk and vulnerability assessments,” VCED Borje added. The SWS survey is a clear manifestation of the priority given by the Marcos Administration to the transformative climate change agenda, as laid out in the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028. The Fourth Quarter 2022 Social Weather Survey was conducted from December 10-14, 2022, using face-to-face interviews with 1,200 adults nationwide – 300 each in Metro Manila, Balance Luzon, the Visayas, and Mindanao. The CCC vows to strengthen its mission in coordination among key stakeholders toward achieving a climate-resilient and climate-smart Philippines. For more information on climate change mainstreaming activities of the CCC, visit the website, https://climate.gov.ph.

MAAYON, Capiz — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) conducted capacity enhancement activity on Greenhouse Gas Inventory (GHGI) and local Climate Change Expenditure Tagging (CCET) in Maayon, Capiz. The training was attended by more than 30 representatives from the Provincial Government of Capiz, the Municipal Government of Maayon, Department of Interior and Local Government Regional Office, and private sector. “This training is one of the series of capacity development training that we have been looking forward to as it composes our Climate Disaster and Risk Assessment (CDRA) for adaptation, and Greenhouse Gas Inventory for mitigation,” said Maayon Mayor Raymond Malapajo. The capacity enhancement activity aims to boost the LGU’s capacity on sectoral GHGI and local CCET in order to support the municipality in completing their enhanced Local Climate Change Action Plan (eLCCAP). "LCCAP is a development plan that contains both adaptation and mitigation actions of LGUs. We conduct GHG inventory to provide science-based information for coming up with mitigation strategies. These strategies must then be reflected and tagged in the local CCET Annual Investment Programs," explained Sandee Recabar, Chief of CCC’s Implementation Oversight Division, on the fundamental objective of LCCAP formulation. At the end of the training, the Ma-ayon LGU was able to develop a draft GHGI report for the fiscal year 2022. Mitigation investments were also embedded in the LCCET. "Our CDRA journey with the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) has never been easy, but I am grateful [to] our LCCAP technical working group for conducting four workshops in the span of two years. And now, we are working on our GHG inventory to complete our LCCAP," Mayor Malapajo added. The CCC also paid a courtesy call on Mayor Malapajo and Vice Mayor Jose Dapulaza prior to the start of the activity. For more information on GHGI and CCET, visit https://climate.gov.ph and https://niccdies.climate.gov.ph/.

MANILA, Philippines – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) conducted a consultation with civil society organizations and private sector on national reports to be submitted to UN Climate Change (UNFCCC) this year. A stakeholder consultation for the development of the country's Biennial Updated Report (BUR) was organized by the CCC, through its Implementation Oversight Division, to ensure collective, inclusive, and transparent process in developing national reports. Reports such as the BUR, which are to be submitted by non-Annex 1 countries to the UNFCCC, serve as basis to assess global progress on climate commitments, towards mobilizing means of implementation (MOI) and support for the developing world. Twenty four (24) participants from civil society and the private sector attended the consultation on the BUR development process. “As members of civil society and the private sector, you will be able to help us develop the report into one that is truly consultative, comprehensive, data-driven, and reflective of our country’s circumstances and needs,” said CCC Deputy Executive Director Romell Antonio Cuenca. To set the context, the CCC presented the overview of the BUR process and the data and information needed to qualify the report as comprehensive and data-driven. CSOs and private sector representatives shared their views and insights on additional data and information sources, and how their organizations can contribute in the development of the BUR. The CCC, as the National Focal Point to the UNFCCC spearheads the process of BUR development and submission. Series of consultation with government and stakeholders will be conducted towards the completion and finalization of the BUR. The BUR is targeted to be submitted by the CCC to the UNFCCC this year. For more information about the Philippine BUR, visit the website of the CCC at https://climate.gov.ph.

QUEZON CITY, Philippines – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) and Department of Budget and Management (DBM) conducted an orientation for state universities and colleges (SUCs) on climate change expenditure tagging (CCET), and called for increased climate budget proposals of SUCs for FY 2024. The CCC and DBM, in their joint effort to track and monitor climate change-related budget and expenditure, conducted an orientation session for SUCs on tagging programs, projects and activities allocated for climate change actions, in preparation for the FY 2024 budget call. Specific to the mandate of SUCs, the CCC and DBM view that their programs, projects and activities are important to be reflected in the CCET, as these government investments are crucial in developing science and evidences to support climate policies and actions. “We call on SUCs to increase and prioritize their budgets for climate research and development to produce the best available science and technologies locally,” said CCC Commissioner Albert P. Dela Cruz Sr. More than 450 participants from 106 SUCs attended the CCC-DBM-led orientation on CCET. Through this series of orientation sessions, the CCC hopes that SUCs will be able to secure an increased budget for climate-related activities. “SUCs are among our key partners in addressing climate change. They provide us site-specific climate information that enable local government units to determine fit-for-purpose programs and activities to address climate change and its impacts,” said CCC Vice Chair and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje. Earlier this year, DBM issued National Budget Memorandum No. 145, commencing the SUCs’ budget preparation for fiscal year 2024, including the submission of budget proposals for climate change under CCET. “While we are on track with our agenda for prosperity, our efforts will be futile if you are unable to address climate change as it continues to pose significant risks to our economic development. Thankfully, we have interventions such as the CCET that allow us to monitor the scope and distribution of climate action in the country,” said DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman. The CCET tracks and monitors climate-tagged budgets in annual appropriations. For FY 2023, total appropriations for climate change accounts for PHP 464.49 billion, 60.32 percent higher than FY 2022. The event was organized by the CCC and DBM, together with the Commission on Higher Education(CHED), the Governance Commission for GOCCs, and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), to raise the national government instrumentalities’ (NGIs) capacity to tag, identify, and advance public resources for climate action. These NGIs include GOCCs, NGAs, and SUCs. For more information about the CCET, visit https://climate.gov.ph/ and https://niccdies.climate.gov.ph/climate-finance/ccet.

MANILA, Philippines — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) and Aboitiz Equity Ventures (AEV) met to discuss the implementation of their partnership on creating climate-smart communities. CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director (VCED) Robert E.A. Borje welcomed the delegates from Aboitiz Equity Ventures, led by Ms. Ana Margarita “Ginggay” Hontiveros, First Vice President and Chief Reputation and Sustainability Officer. “Public-private partnerships are crucial to harmonize coordination and concerted effort in ensuring local governments can plan for and implement strategies to minimize, if not avert, the impacts of climate change,” said VCED Borje. The meeting was intended to concretize the activities of the partnership between CCC and AEV to transform LGUs into climate-smart communities, including assisting LGUs to prepare, implement, and enhance their local climate change action plans (LCCAP). In December 2022, a preliminary orientation workshop on the enhancing LCCAP towards becoming climate smart communities was conducted for the municipalities of Sto. Tomas and Malvar in Batangas and Iligan City. Building on the success of the event, the CCC and AEV expanded the program to other vulnerable communities hosted by the Aboitiz Group.   The Aboitiz Group expressed full support to the CCC towards the innovation on the consolidation and analysis of LGUs’ LCCAPs and the responsiveness of their Climate Change Expenditure Tagging (CCET). The innovation component of the partnership seeks to provide relevant public information on the intervention of LGUs based on their local climate risks and hazards. The LCCAP innovation project will be launched in September 2023. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph.

Quezon City, Philippines – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) joined government and development partners in the kick off workshop for Transformative Actions for Climate and Ecological Protection and Development (TRANSCEND) Project in the aim to accelerate progress towards climate resilience. Supported by the Federal Republic of Germany, the TRANSCEND Project will forge collaborations between governments, civil society and the private sector to attain transformational change in the areas of climate governance, biodiversity conservation, ecosystems resilience, transport, and energy. "Aligned with the thrust of the German government, this Project will drive concrete results on adaptation, mitigation, and biodiversity protection, catering to the specific needs and priorities of the Philippines," First Secretary Alexander Schmidt of the German Embassy Manila said. As the lead policy-making body of the Philippine government on climate change, the CCC provided convergence points of the Project in line with the country’s climate action agenda. “To adequately address the impacts of climate change, we must strengthen our collective capacities to effectively and efficiently deliver our work. Collaborative partnerships with development partners in the international community and the business sector are key to our success,” said Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje. Jerome Ilagan, Chief of CCC’s Policy and Research and Development Division, highlighted the opportunity for the Project to employ the concept of "Build Right at First Sight" using the best available science and technologies and aligned with the Nationally Determined Contribution. During the project’s kick-off workshop, Alexis Lapiz, Chief of CCC’s Strategic Partnership Division, recognized the support provided by the German Government and the vision of TRANSCEND to foster a whole-of-government approach in pursuing climate actions. "This mechanism is clearly demonstrated by the Project, which provides an enabling environment for government and non-government actors to join forces and reach significant strides towards advancing the country’s climate change and sustainable development agenda," said Lapiz. With grant funding of EUR 36.8 million, the Project will be spearheaded by a consortium of development partners and research institutions in partnership with various national government agencies.

MANILA, Philippines — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) supports the Executive Order on the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023–2028, as part of the whole-of-government and whole-of-nation approach toward achieving climate resilience and sustainable development. The National Economic and Development Authority formally launched the PDP 2023-2028 through Executive Order (EO) No. 14, s. 2023, signed by President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr. on 30 January 2023 during the "From Plan to Action: PDP 2023-2028 Forum." The PDP 2023–2028 is a plan for deep economic and social transformation to reinvigorate job creation and accelerate poverty reduction by steering the economy back on a high-growth path. This growth must be inclusive, building an environment that provides equal opportunities to all Filipinos, and equipping them with skills to participate fully in an innovative and globally competitive economy. President Marcos said that the PDP 2023-2028 "will set the Philippines towards becoming an upper-middle income country by the year 2025. But beyond economic development, the Plan also focuses on social development and protection, disaster resilience, digital transformation, and many other things." Under Part IV: Enabling Environment, Chapter 15 of the PDP identifies the goal for communities, institutions, and natural and built environments to be "more resilient to the impacts of natural hazards and climate change" by 2028. To achieve this objective, this chapter identified three strategies: increasing the climate and disaster risk resilience of communities and institutions; enhancing ecosystem resilience; and enabling the transition to a low-carbon economy. The CCC is part of the Planning Committee that developed the Chapter on Accelerate Climate Action and Strengthen Disaster Resilience. The Commission provided relevant climate information, i.e., climate budget tagging data, Local Climate Change Action Plan (LCCAP) compliance, and Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) information. For its part, the CCC will continue its efforts to strengthen its programs to elevate and strengthen the country’s climate agenda. Under the Climate Change Expenditure Tagging, PHP 458.66 billion was tagged for climate related programs for fiscal year (FY) 2023. This is 58.30% higher than the 2022 climate budget of PHP 289.73 billion. LCCAP submissions climbed from 715 at the end of 2021 to 1,397 at the end of 2022. The CCC targets to have 100% compliance from 1,715 LGUs by FY 2024. The NDC calls for the systematic integration of climate change adaptation and mitigation in various phases of policy formulation and development plans, specifically in the sectors of agriculture, waste, industry, transportation, forestry, and energy sectors based on available science and technology. The CCC will continue to engage all stakeholders concerned in the NDC implementation, updating, and monitoring and review processes. To support and operationalize the PDP, the CCC is updating the National Climate Change Action Plan and the NDC, strengthening the implementation of the National Climate Risk Management Framework (NCRMF), and developing the National Adaptation Plan (NAP), in promoting the Commission’s goal of a climate-resilient and climate-smart Philippines. For updates and information on the work of the Commission, visit the official website http://www.climate.gov.ph.

MANILA, Philippines, 29 March 2023 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) joins the United Nations Development Programme-Philippines (UNDP Philippines) in launching a project on accelerating private climate finance for nature-based solutions. The CCC expressed its support for the UNDP-Philippines project, "Accelerating Green and Climate Finance in the Philippines: Nature-Based Solutions," aimed to increase private sector investments in gender-responsive, nature-based solutions in support of a just transition to resilient and low emission development. "We recognize the immense value in nature-based solutions, but increased financing, especially from the private sector, must flow in for nature-based projects and programs—and more urgently, considering the rate of destruction of our natural wealth from climate impacts and other factors," said CCC Commissioner Rachel Anne Herrera. She also emphasized the potential of nature-based solutions to enhance adaptive capacities against climate impacts and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) (DENR) Secretary and the President’s Representative to the CCC, Ma. Antonio Yulo-Loyzaga, highlighted the ongoing work by the DENR to support nature-based solutions to climate change, specifically in forest protection, watershed and wetland management, and restoration and protection of marine and coastal resources. “We have a challenging task ahead, but we're optimistic that we can deliver a lasting impact on our communities and on our country as a whole. We are, therefore, partners with you in fostering this new effort and working with key stakeholders to unlock financing for climate and disaster resilience,” Secretary Yulo-Loyzaga added. Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno explained that the Department of Finance has built a sustainable finance ecosystem to synergize public and private investments in green projects, and that its roadmap sets the guiding principles that will create an environment for greater policies in the Philippines. “There is a strong appetite for green investments among the investment community, and we are keen on strengthening our policies on climate financing to complement its wide array of initiatives. We launched today a unique project that offers gender-responsive, nature-based solutions for climate-resilient technologies, practices, and approaches,” Secretary Diokno said. Dr. Selva Ramachandran, Resident Representative of the UNDP, explained that the “initiative recognizes the big task of bringing nature-based solutions at the very core of public and private sector investments and decision-making processes,” and that it aims to contribute “to seeing the results of nature-based solutions for climate through public-private partnership.” Funded by the Government of Canada, the project will be implemented by DOF, CCC, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, Securities and Exchange Commission Philippines, and Public-Private Partnership Center. The project’s implementation period is from 2022 to 2025. Consistent with the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, the project seeks to contribute to the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, and the achievement of the country’s Nationally Determined Contribution, the Philippines Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan, and other related policies and programmes. It also aims to enhance resilience and environmental security for Filipino women and vulnerable communities in the Philippines.