MANILA, 28 April 2025 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC), in collaboration with the Office of Senator Loren Legarda and the Asian Institute of Management (AIM), has launched the second iteration of the Sustainable Leadership Learning for Climate and Disaster Risk Reduction (SLL-CDRR) scholarship program. With strong support from Senator Loren Legarda, a staunch advocate for climate action, the scholarship builds on its successful 2024 debut to empower a new cohort of leaders in disaster resilience and data science. The SLL-CDRR scholarship provides full financial support, including tuition and immersion program fees, for government professionals to pursue either the AIM’s Executive Master in Disaster Risk and Crisis Management (EMDRCM) or the Master of Science in Data Science (MSDS). The EMDRCM is an 18-month program designed to enhance expertise in disaster resilience, crisis response, and sustainable development, while the 15-month MSDS program combines data analytics with applications for climate and disaster risk reduction. Both programs aim to equip scholars with the skills to drive innovative, data-informed solutions and strategic leadership in their respective fields. “Investing in leaders who can bridge policy, technology, and community action is critical for our climate-resilient future,” said Senator Loren Legarda. “This program ensures our workforce is equipped to tackle complex challenges with innovation and inclusivity.” The scholarship encourages applicants from national and local government agencies engaged in climate action, disaster risk reduction, or data management. "We need leaders who not only understand the science of climate change and disaster risk but also possess the vision and skills to translate that knowledge into actionable, community-centered solutions," Senator Legarda emphasized. Eligible candidates must be Filipino citizens who are not more than fifty-five (55) years old, hold a bachelor’s degree, and have at least five years of professional experience, including two years focused on climate or disaster-related work and two years in supervisory or managerial roles. Applicants must hold a position equivalent to Salary Grade 18 or higher. To promote gender equity, at least 50% of scholarship slots will be allocated for women. “The SLL-CDRR program is a cornerstone of our strategy to build a resilient, future-ready workforce. By empowering leaders with cutting-edge knowledge in disaster management and data science, we are strengthening our nation’s capacity to navigate the complexities of climate change,” said CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje. Interested applicants may access full program details and submission guidelines on the CCC social media pages and website. For inquiries, contact the CCC via email at [email protected] or by phone at (+632) 8420 5515.
MANILA - The Climate Change Commission (CCC) emphasized the important role of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) in shaping a more climate-conscious and action-driven student population during the commemoration of International Mother Earth Day. Acknowledging the spike in enrollment in the past two years, Secretary Robert E.A. Borje, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director, raised a crucial question: How many of them truly understand climate change? "Many students and young people care deeply about the planet, yet they often lack a full understanding of climate change, its root causes, long-term impacts, and the urgency of action," Borje stressed. Data show that enrollment rose from 4.1 million in 2022 to 5.1 million in 2024. For Academic Year 2020-2021, the most pursued programs were Business Administration and related courses, followed by Education Science and Teacher Training, and Engineering and Technology. Meanwhile, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported in 2023 that 90 percent of Filipinos, or over 94 million individuals, are considered literate based on the latest Census of Population. Borje emphasized that while basic literacy and school enrollment remain high, the real challenge lies in fostering a deeper understanding of climate issues. "CHED holds a unique position. You inform, inspire, and influence the next generation of leaders. By shaping young minds, you cultivate their role as stewards of our planet," he added. Borje urged CHED to continue championing research grounded in sustainability and to promote the integration of climate education across all academic disciplines and programs, explaining that a collective effort and climate education are key to achieving long-term climate resilience goals. International Mother Earth Day, designated by the UN General Assembly in 2009, is a call to action against the worsening degradation of ecosystems, as the planet experiences intense heat, heavy flash floods, and polluted oceans. Such impacts affect millions of people that destroy their lives, livelihoods, and futures. The event gathered the officials and staff of CHED, led by Chairperson J. Prospero E. De Vera III, alongside Commissioners Dr. Ethel Agnes Pascua-Valenzuela, Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis, Dr. Marita A. Canapi, Dr. Dennis R. Apag III, and Atty. Cinderella Filipina S. Benitez-Jaro, Executive Director. The CCC remains committed to elevating climate awareness and responsibility across the nation and to supporting programs that advocate for transformative climate action. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.
The Climate Change Commission joins a multi-stakeholder workshop to promote women at the center of climate action and climate-resilient livelihoods. Pasig City – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) emphasized the integration of gender in climate action and in programs to strengthen the resilience of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) against the threat of climate change during a recent workshop and networking event. The discussions focused on the intersection of gender and climate change, particularly on equipping women-led enterprises with the capacity to adapt to climate challenges. CCC Commissioner Rachel Anne S. Herrera highlighted the Nationally Determined Contribution Gender Action Plan (NDC GAP) as a framework to support gender-responsive and inclusive approaches in achieving the country’s NDC targets—which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 75% by 2030. She emphasized that the agricultural, waste, industry, transport, and energy sectors are traditionally considered male-dominated in terms of labor composition especially for those in senior-level management, yet when given the opportunity, women can thrive not just as skilled workers but as industry leaders. Commissioner Herrera also cited the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) as a guide for achieving climate-resilient businesses. “With livelihoods and infrastructure as key focus areas of NAP, MSMEs, which comprise 99% of businesses in the Philippines, need to be equipped with the capacity to invest in climate-resilient infrastructure, technology, and adaptation measures,” Herrera mentioned. She outlined two key initiatives, which will be supported under the TRANSCEND Project being implemented by the CCC and DENR, with support from the German Government, to help MSMEs become climate-smart and resilient. “The development of a Climate-Smart Industry Roadmap will guide MSMEs in enhancing energy efficiency and climate resilience,” she said. “Another key initiative is providing direct support to small-scale manufacturing and food processing enterprises to build their capacity for energy-efficient operations, alongside policy support at the national level,” Herrera added. Undersecretary Blesila Lantayona of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Regional Operations Group recognized women as powerful agents of change, capable of building sustainable communities. "I stand with you to affirm the Department of Trade and Industry’s unwavering dedication to this cause, alongside the broader efforts of the Philippines to champion climate resilience," she added. Ms. Rhoda Castro-Caliwara, President of the Women’s Business Council Philippines, Inc. (WomenBizPH), emphasized that climate change directly impacts the business sector. She noted that extreme weather events, such as scorching heat, floods, and earthquakes, increase costs and disrupt operations. Caliwara also pointed out that the event provided an opportunity for knowledge-sharing and best practices to promote sustainability, empower women, and advance multi-stakeholder collaboration. Meanwhile, Secretary Robert E.A. Borje, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director, highlighted the broader impact of such networking events. “Strengthening partnerships creates opportunities to put women at the center of climate action. This not only empowers women but also fosters a unified and collaborative approach to building a climate-resilient business sector,” he stated. Held under the theme "Kababaihan, Kalikasan, Kabuhayan – Building Climate-Resilient Livelihoods for Women," the event was led by the Department of Trade and Industry, WomenBizPH, and UN Women. It was supported by the governments of New Zealand, Germany, Sweden, and Switzerland through the global EmPower Program of UN Women. It brought together business and industry, national government agencies, and civil society organizations advocating for gender equality, ecological sustainability, and enterprise development. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.
Climate Change Commission (CCC) Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje presents a Plaque of Appreciation to GMA Integrated News for its outstanding commitment to climate reporting. Joining him are Queenie Santos-Dimapawi, Assistant Vice President and Deputy Head for Integrated News Operation; Christina Pascual, Senior Manager for News Audio Visual; John Manalastas, Senior AVP & Deputy Head for Digital News Operations & Editor-in-Chief; John Ray Arrabe, Senior AVP & Cluster Head, News Programs; and Jhoanna “Lou” Albano, Supervising Editor for Lifestyle at GMA News Online. The Climate Change Commission (CCC) and GMA Integrated News (GMA-IN) have reinforced their commitment to climate storytelling in a collaborative meeting focused on expanding media engagement and amplifying climate action initiatives. During the meeting, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje presented a Plaque of Appreciation to GMA-IN in recognition of its outstanding contributions to climate reporting. The recognition highlights the GMA-IN’s impactful programs such as “Banta ng Nagbabagong Klima,” which have played a crucial role in informing the public about climate change. GMA-IN, one of the longest-running news organizations in the Philippines, has been at the forefront of climate journalism, leveraging its TV, digital, radio, and regional platforms to deliver in-depth and impactful stories. The meeting served as a platform to explore potential collaborations, including creating dedicated spaces for climate information exchange, hosting discussions on critical but underreported issues, and launching joint initiatives to raise awareness and drive action. “We share a common mission to address the challenges of climate change through informed storytelling and impactful journalism,” Borje said. “GMA Integrated News has consistently demonstrated excellence in climate reporting, ensuring that climate information reaches a wider audience and inspires action.” As part of its broader engagement strategy, the CCC is strengthening collaboration with journalists through initiatives such as media interface sessions and training programs. These efforts aim to enhance climate reporting, encourage informed public discourse, and mainstream climate action in news coverage. Queenie Santos-Dimapawi, Assistant Vice President and Deputy Head for Integrated News Operations, stated, “We believe awareness is the first step towards action. We have made climate change reporting a core part of our mission. Through this, we aim to turn information into inspiration and inspire Filipinos into action.” Discussions also delved on potential collaborations in producing compelling climate stories that highlight the realities of climate change and resilience efforts. Additionally, the CCC is exploring innovative platforms and strategic partnerships to expand the reach of its advocacy and ensure that climate awareness translates into concrete action at all levels of society. “High-quality journalism is essential in driving climate awareness and accountability,” Borje emphasized. “GMA Integrated News has set a high standard in climate reporting, producing stories that not only inform but also empower communities to take action. Our partnership is a powerful step toward a more climate-informed and resilient Philippines” Through strengthened partnership with stakeholders including the media, the CCC is committed to their mission to elevate the conversation on climate change, drive public engagement, and inspire meaningful action toward a more resilient and sustainable future.
MANILA, Philippines – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) joined the global observance of Earth Hour last night, March 22, emphasizing the importance of water security in the face of climate change. This year’s Earth Hour, which coincides with World Water Day, highlights the critical link between energy conservation and water security. Switching off lights for an hour serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need for stronger conservation efforts. The Philippines continues to face significant challenges in water access. According to the Department of Health (DOH), 2.87 million households (11.26%) had no access to basic water supply in 2022, while 4.17 million households (16.36%) had no basic sanitation facilities. Secretary Robert E.A. Borje, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director, stressed the critical role of water in human survival and economic stability. “At the heart of this year's Earth Hour is water security. Water is a fundamental human survival and a basic human right. It is also vital to the Philippine economy, particularly in major industries such as agriculture, tourism, and semiconductors,” said Secretary Borje. According to the World Bank, 42 percent of the country’s jobs are in sectors that use water intensively. He also encouraged the public to actively participate in Earth Hour, not just by switching off lights but by contributing to ongoing efforts toward conservation and climate resilience. “This movement does not end here, but rather serves as a reminder for us to take daily steps to promote conservation and build resilience,” Secretary Borje said. He also cited the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) as a key strategy for strengthening conservation efforts, with a particular focus on innovative climate adaptation measures. The NAP identifies water resources as one of the eight key sectors crucial for climate adaptation, underscoring the need for comprehensive and sustainable water management strategies. With the theme “Switch Off and Secure Water for All,” this year’s Earth Hour highlights the importance of water and energy conservation for global action to ensure sustainable access for all. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.
