The Climate Change Commission participates in the 5th Philippine Environment Summit and visits the Leganes Integrated Katunggan Ecopark in Iloilo City to reaffirm its commitment to climate resilience and ecosystem restoration. ILOILO CITY, Philippines – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) underscored the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) as a key strategy for building the country’s climate resilience at the 5th Philippine Environment Summit (PES) recently held in Iloilo City. Discussions centered on transformative actions to reduce carbon footprints, with the CCC highlighting the NAP as a framework for strategic, informed, and targeted measures to minimize climate risks and ensure sustainability of the country’s economic and social systems. Secretary Robert E.A. Borje, Vice Chairperson and Executive Director of the CCC, emphasized the Philippines’ susceptibility to climate change. “The Philippines faces intensifying climate threats—rising temperatures, increasing sea levels, shifting rainfall patterns, and stronger tropical cyclones,” he said. “This underscores the importance of NAP as it outlines actions to reduce risks, enhance adaptive capacities, and integrate climate adaptation into national and local development planning,” Borje added. Iloilo City is one of the 18 provinces identified in the NAP as highly exposed to climate change impacts, particularly strong winds, rising sea levels, and extreme sea levels. Borje also stressed the need for climate change mitigation, citing the Nationally Determined Contribution Implementation Plan (NDCIP) as the country’s commitment to reducing emissions and supporting global climate efforts. The NDCIP provides strategies for transitioning to cleaner energy, promoting renewable sources, and increasing energy efficiency. While frameworks and roadmaps like the NAP are in place, Borje emphasized that their success relies on collective action. “The success of the NAP and NDCIP depends on the active participation of all stakeholders,” he said. He encouraged simple yet impactful actions to reduce carbon emissions, such as participating in tree-growing activities, refusing to use disposable plastics, conserving energy, and supporting solar, wind and other renewable sources. Meanwhile, Undersecretary Asis G. Perez of the Department of Agriculture also called for concrete action, noting that climate change poses severe threats to the agricultural sector. “The Philippines is not only a contributor but also experiences major impacts, such as strong typhoons that disrupt harvest seasons,” Perez said. The three-day summit, held in collaboration with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and Green Convergence, brought together representatives from government, business sector, civil society, indigenous groups, non-government organizations, and students. Held under the theme "Ako ang Bukas: Quantum Leap to Climate Neutrality," the event showcased initiatives that contribute to ecological restoration and sustainability. Key leaders at the event included Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. and Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas. The CCC also visited the Leganes Integrated Katunggan Ecopark, a 9.1-hectare mangrove forest rehabilitated after the devastation caused by Typhoon Frank in 2009. The ecopark serves as a vital carbon sink, contributing to climate change mitigation efforts. 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 the 35th Annual National Convention of the League of Local Planning and Development Coordinators of the Philippines to discuss the National Adaptation Plan and People's Survival Fund. TACLOBAN CITY, Philippines – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) urged local planning officers to fully utilize the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) and the People's Survival Fund (PSF) to strengthen climate resilience at the 35th Annual National Convention of the League of Local Planning and Development Coordinators of the Philippines held recently in Tacloban City. Assistant Secretary Romell Antonio O. Cuenca, CCC Deputy Executive Director, highlighted the NAP and PSF as key tools for enhancing local climate resilience. The NAP aims to steadily reduce climate-related loss and damage and build the country’s adaptive capacity towards transformative resilience and sustainable economic development by 2050. On the other hand, the PSF is a dedicated finance mechanism that supports various community-based adaptation projects to strengthen the resilience of localities and ecosystems. “The NAP provides a long-term strategy for climate adaptation, while the PSF provides financial support for local projects. As one of the most climate-at-risk countries, the Philippines must maximize these frameworks to enhance preparedness and adaptive capacity,” Cuenca said. He emphasized the vital role of local planning and development coordinators in ensuring these programs are effectively implemented. The CCC continues to educate and equip LGUs with the necessary tools and knowledge through mentorship, workshops, and capacity-building initiatives to strengthen climate resilience and disaster response across the country. “The success of NAP implementation and PSF access depends on the collective efforts of local governments. Proper compliance with PSF requirements is necessary to ensure the effective utilization of funds for climate adaptation initiatives,” Cuenca emphasized. Meanwhile, Secretary Robert E.A. Borje, Vice Chairperson and Executive Director of CCC, emphasized the importance of these programs for local planners. "With proper integration, utilizing the PSF and NAP in local plans will strengthen resilience and support sustainable recovery,” Borje said, noting that the NAP was developed under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. The convention gathered around 800 local planning and development coordinators and other LGU representatives nationwide. With the theme “Beyond Building Back Better: Utilizing Lessons of Resilience in Development Planning," the event focused on disaster preparedness, particularly drawing insights from Tacloban's experience recovering from Super Typhoon Yolanda in 2013. 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 the 35th Annual National Convention of the League of Local Planning and Development Coordinators of the Philippines to discuss the National Adaptation Plan and People's Survival Fund. Pangasinan, Philippines – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) has commended the provincial government of Pangasinan for its climate action initiatives, disaster preparedness efforts, and environmental sustainability during the agency’s recent visit to the province. Through a series of engagements with provincial government officials and local communities, the CCC recognized the province’s commitment to climate change adaptation and mitigation (CCAM). The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) of Pangasinan presented its key initiatives, including Project PARAAN, a risk assessment survey that evaluates community vulnerability to natural hazards, and the Green Canopy Project, which aims to plant one million trees in its third year of implementation. Plans such as the establishment of the Eztanza Native Tree Nursery and Project Kasilyas, which further support ecological conservation and climate resilience, were also discussed. The CCC provided an overview of its programs and services, highlighting Pangasinan’s vulnerability to climate change impacts based on the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) Provincial Risk Categorization. The agency also commended Pangasinan’s compliance with the Local Climate Change Action Plan (LCCAP), which enables all 48 of its local government units (LGUs) to design climate adaptation and mitigation projects tailored to their specific needs. The People’s Survival Fund (PSF) was introduced as a vital financial resource to support these initiatives. “Pangasinan’s commitment to disaster risk preparedness is commendable, as reflected in its 100% LCCAP submission. When we talk about hazards, exposure, vulnerability, and capacity, we must see them not just as challenges but as part of a strategic game plan—an investment in community resilience. This is exactly what we witness here in Pangasinan,” said CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje. The CCC also visited the PDRRMO’s 24/7 Operations Center and met with its Emergency Response Team. The PDRRMO underscored the province’s high vulnerability to fluvial and pluvial flooding, highlighting the importance of robust early warning systems. They also noted their use of climate and risk data from agencies, including the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST-PAGASA), Office of Civil Defense (OCD), and Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB). The CCC delegation also visited the Bued Mangrove Propagation and Information Center in Alaminos, Pangasinan, which is home to a diverse mangrove species such as Rhizophora, Avicennia, and Sonneratia. Local eco-guides shared insights on the ecological importance of mangroves in carbon sequestration and coastal protection. Alaminos City’s reforestation initiative follows a ridge-to-reef conservation approach, which integrates forestry management, watershed protection, and coastal rehabilitation to strengthen ecological sustainability, disaster risk reduction, and climate resilience. “The challenge for us Filipinos is to dream bigger, aim higher, and aspire for a better future. But beyond excellence, we must commit to the quiet, unseen work—the daily acts of diligence and integrity—that, over time, will build a stronger, more resilient nation,” Borje said. The CCC reaffirms its partnerships with local government units in advancing climate resilience, recognizing that collaboration at all levels is key to building a sustainable and adaptive future in a changing climate. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.
[Left to Right] Dr. Moya Collett (Embassy of Australia), Dulamkhorloo Baatar (Nest Center for Journalism Innovation and Development),Secretary Robert Borje (Climate Change Commission, Philippines), Erry Riyana Hardjapameka (KAKI Alliance, Indonesia), and Sankhitha Gunaratne (Verité Research, Sri Lanka) discuss key trends, challenges and opportunities in the region and explore how open government solutions can drive transitions. Manila, Philippines | The Climate Change Commission (CCC) reaffirmed its commitment to open and inclusive climate governance, emphasizing its role in strengthening climate resilience and sustainable development at the Open Government Partnership (OGP) Asia-Pacific Regional Meeting in Manila. Speaking at a high-level panel discussion, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje underscored the importance of transparency, accountability, and participation in addressing climate challenges across social and national boundaries. During the plenary session “A Regional Agenda for Open Government: How Economic Development, Democratic Security, and Open Government Go Together,” Secretary Borje highlighted the Philippines’ efforts to institutionalize inclusive governance frameworks, citing the National Adaptation Plan (NAP), and the Nationally Determined Contribution Implementation Plan (NDCIP) as key examples of collaborative policymaking under the Marcos administration. “Under President Marcos’ leadership, climate action has been prioritized through clear governance frameworks that encourage meaningful participation,” Borje said. “The NAP was completed in under 10 months, and the NDCIP in just five months, demonstrating that when governance frameworks are in place and stakeholders are actively engaged, we can achieve both strong outputs and impactful outcomes.” Borje also emphasized the need for greater transparency and accountability in climate finance, citing the Climate Change Expenditure Tagging (CCET) mechanism, which tracks the allocation of climate-related funds. “CCET allows the public to see where climate funds go, making financial flows more transparent and ensuring that investments lead to meaningful outputs and outcomes,” Borje explained. He also advocated for expanding open governance frameworks at the regional level, proposing an ASEAN-wide open governance framework for climate finance and carbon markets. Addressing the need to balance high-quality deliberation with high-quality investment, Borje pointed to the Philippine Energy Plan (PEP) 2020-2040. “The Philippines recognizes that climate action and shift to renewable energy must be both ambitious and well-planned,” he said. “At the same time, we are strengthening governance structures to ensure investments are transparent, inclusive, and accountable.” As a call to action, Borje stressed the vital role of civil society organizations (CSOs), research institutions, and advocacy groups in ensuring climate finance accountability and policy effectiveness. “Governments must not work in silos. Meaningful participation leads to stronger policies, better implementation, and greater public trust,” he stated. “Our commitment to open governance means breaking down barriers and equipping communities with the knowledge and tools to take action, so we can build a culture of appreciation for open climate governance mechanisms that drive real, lasting resilience across the Asia-Pacific.” The event gathered government officials, civil society leaders, and policy experts to explore how open governance principles can advance sustainable development in the region. Together with Secretary Borje, the panel featured a diverse group of experts in a session moderated by Joseph Foti, OGP Principal Advisor for Emerging Issues. Dr. Moya Collett, Charge d’Affaires, Embassy of Australia discussed critical technology and regional cooperation, emphasizing the need for AI governance, human oversight, and efforts to combat misinformation in government decision-making. Erry Riyana Hardjapameka of the KAKI Alliance, Indonesia, highlighted anti-corruption measures in private sector development, citing investigations into MaxPower contracts and state electricity management systems to reinforce transparency. Dulamkhorloo Baatar of the Nest Center for Journalism Innovation and Development addressed the dangers of misinformation, particularly recurring disinformation campaigns on uranium mining, and stressed the importance of networks and partners in providing accurate context. Sankhitha Gunaratne of the Verité Research, Sri Lanka connected public finance and governance to Sri Lanka’s economic crisis, explaining how governance-linked bonds incentivize reforms by tying debt restructuring to governance improvements. The CCC remains a strong advocate for open governance principles for climate policy development in the Philippines, ensuring that adaptation and mitigation align with national and global commitments.
The Climate Change Commission emphasizes the value of public-private collaboration to achieve the Nationally Determined Contribution targets. MAKATI CITY, Philippines – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to achieving climate action goals through green economy pathways at the “2025 Sustainability Forum: The Green Economies of Tomorrow” recently held in Makati City. Key leaders from the private sector, government, and international organizations participated in the forum, which focused on accelerating the transition to sustainable, low-carbon economies. The event was organized by the German-Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GPCCI) in collaboration with the German Embassy. Discussions emphasized the role of green innovation in fulfilling the Philippines’ Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement. Secretary Robert E.A. Borje, Vice Chairperson and Executive Director of the CCC, reiterated the Philippines’ climate commitment, including the NDC target of a 75% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to a business-as-usual scenario. He outlined key sectors—energy, transport, waste, industry, and agriculture—that are central to the country’s NDC Implementation Plan (NDCIP). Borje emphasized the need for strong public and private sector collaboration to drive investments in renewable energy, climate-resilient infrastructure, and green technologies. He noted that green industries not only reduce emissions but also boost economic growth and job creation. “The private and public sectors are crucial partners in this transformation. The shift to renewable energy, electric vehicles, smart cities, and sustainable agriculture are all areas where we can advance,” Borje stated. He also underscored the importance of a just transition to a green economy, ensuring that workers and communities, especially those in vulnerable sectors, receive adequate support. "This transition must be equitable, inclusive, and resilient, leaving no one behind." Meanwhile, Marie Antoniette E. Mariano, President of GPCCI, said the event presents an opportunity to foster collective action and develop effective solutions. “This forum is a space for meaningful dialogue, alignment of strategies, and strengthened partnerships to drive lasting impact.” The forum also served as a platform to explore how the Philippines can align its climate policies with international commitments while also addressing local development priorities. Borje highlighted that the Philippines’ updated NDC, set to be released this year, would reflect evolving priorities and emerging technologies–scaling up both adaptation and mitigation efforts. He urged the private sector to collaborate with the CCC in advancing climate action through green and climate-smart initiatives, emphasizing that “while the journey will not be easy, collective efforts can make it possible.” “Together with our partners, let’s push the boundaries of what is possible. Let us continue to work hand-in-hand to turn our climate ambitions into realities, for a climate-smart, climate-resilient, and low-carbon sustainable future,” Borje said. The “2025 Sustainability Forum: The Green Economies of Tomorrow” brought together leaders from government, business, and civil society, including Christopher Zimmer, Executive Director of GPCCI; H.E. Andreas Faffernoschke, German Ambassador to the Philippines; and Lucas Zaehringer, CEO of Planet 2050. Also present were Edward Gacusana, Executive Director of the United Nations Global Compact, and Naeeda Crishna Morgado, Senior Infrastructure Specialist at the Asian Development Bank. The CCC remains steadfast in its commitment to collaborate with various stakeholders across sectors to achieve the country’s NDC targets and advance a sustainable, low-carbon economy. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.
