MANILA, 16 June 2022 — The Philippines underscored the urgent need for climate justice in order to successfully realize responsible global and regional partnerships ensuring water sustainability and sufficiency across regions.   At the plenary session of the 2nd Dushanbe Water Process Conference in Tajikistan, on 8 June 2022, Climate Change Commission (CCC) Secretary Robert Borje called attention to water scarcity as “one of the future global climate risks” and urged regional and global action to “formulate and implement water development strategies and trajectories in the era of climate change, up to the last mile and up to the last person.”   Secretary Borje stressed that at the heart of climate change action is the principle of climate justice where more needs to be done for “those who are least responsible for climate change, to those with the least resources, to those most exposed, vulnerable and at risk, we need to do more.”   He also challenged developed and industrialized countries, “to the most responsible, to those with the most resources, you have to do more.”   “To this end, we need climate financing. Make it more accessible and available. Unlock it for the developing world,” he underlined as he stressed that this was not a plea for handouts but an urgent call for “responsible partnership” leading to actions with results.   A week earlier in the Stockholm+50 International Meeting held on 02 June 2022 in Sweden, Secretary Borje pointed out that climate justice “should not be a choice but an obligation” and that “justice requires us to do more,” while underscoring that the world’s “collective moral fiber should be outraged if we cannot deliver climate justice.”   He also called for a review of the global approach to climate change adaptation and mitigation with a paradigm that stresses “Build Right at First Sight” as climate financing resources for developing nations remain difficult to access.   President Rodrigo Roa Duterte designated Secretary Borje as the Head of Delegation and the President’s personal representative to the 2nd Dushanbe Water Process Conference.   Watch the highlight of the Opening of the Dushanbe Water Process with Secretary Borje through this link:  https://www.facebook.com/rtvmalacanang/videos/1071878096745353.   For updates regarding the participation of the CCC in the Dushanbe Water Process Conference, follow our social media accounts at /CCCPhl and hashtag #CCCinDushanbe.

MANILA, 8 June 2022 — The Philippines has been granted a total of $650 million or around P34.32 billion in loan commitments from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to support the country’s climate change adaptation and mitigation programs and to strengthen domestic capital markets in the country.   Department of Finance Secretary and Climate Change Commission (CCC) Chair-Designate Carlos G. Dominguez and ADB Deputy Director General Winfried Wicklein exchanged loan documents for the Climate Change Action Program 1 (CCAP1) and Capital Market-Generated Infrastructure Financing Program, Subprogram 2 (CM-GIF2) in a ceremony held last Friday.   The CCAP1, amounting to $250 million, is the ADB’s first climate change policy-based loan program. It recognizes the Philippines as a pioneer in climate policy development finance and encourages other nations to design their own multi-sector climate programs.   This program demonstrates the Philippines’ commitment to provide long-term attention to the climate crisis, which has had a significant impact on the country. The Philippines has taken the initiative to be one of the first Asia-Pacific countries to implement climate change policies.   “We owe it to the Filipino people to build the nation’s resiliency against climate change. We cannot wait for the industrialized economies to break their inertia and accept the urgency of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and providing climate finance to vulnerable countries,” Secretary Dominguez emphasized.   Meanwhile, the CM-GIF2, amounting to $400-million, supports the government's initiative of funding infrastructure at a lower relative cost and connecting private sector infrastructure to capital markets.  It builds on the accomplishments of Subprogram 1, which intended to increase the availability of long-term finance to support investments, as well as the ADB's decades-long engagement in the Philippines' capital market.   CCC Secretary Robert E.A. Borje welcomed the initiative, emphasising that support for the Philippines’ climate change adaptation and mitigation programs is key to ramping up national resiliency.   Secretary Borje also stressed the importance of bilateral cooperation and climate finance to enable developing and vulnerable countries to further strengthen adaptive capacities of developing countries and sustain economic growth and development.   The ADB's policy-based lending modality, which not only mobilizes funding for continued COVID-19 response obligations, but also supports green, resilient, and inclusive development in key priority sectors, bolsters the country's post-pandemic growth momentum.   "We, at the ADB, are honored and proud to partner with the Philippines, to partner with you, including also through these difficult times in the pandemic. We are fully committed to supporting the Philippines and improving the livelihoods of all the FIlipinos and creating a stronger, green, and resilient economy,” said Deputy Director General Wicklein.   “The two (2) programs are not unrelated. An improved infrastructure backbone will increase the efficiency of our economy. It will enable us to improve our climate resiliency and spur sustainable growth,” said Secretary Dominguez.   Officials and representatives from the Department of Agriculture, Securities and Exchange Commission, Insurance Commission, Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation, Social Security System, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Laguna Lake Development Authority, and the Climate Change Commission, represented by Commissioner Rachel Anne S. Herrera, were present in the ceremony.

MANILA, 8 June 2022 — The Philippines urged nations to shift the global paradigm to effectively address the climate crisis to speed up resilience, achieve sustainable development, strengthen environmental protection.   At the plenary session of the Stockholm+50 International Meeting in Stockholm, Sweden, Climate Change Secretary Robert Borje urged nations to go beyond “Build Back Better” and choose to “Build Right at First Sight.”   Secretary Borje pointed out that global resources committed to climate change adaptation available for developing nations were diminishing and necessitated a change in approach.   He stressed that in order to optimize limited financial resources, there is a need to prevent disasters and that it is important to get efforts right at “first sight”, noting that planning, political will and best available science and technology would be crucial.   “We must go beyond build-back-better. With limited resources available, let us choose to Build Right at First Sight: Avert disasters. Work smart, have adequate resources, and anchor policies and programs on universally accessible climate science and technology, emphasized Secretary Borje.   He likewise called on ramped up assistance by the developed countries as developing nations like the Philippines continue to grapple with the impacts of climate change.   “For those who are most responsible for climate change, with the most resources, you need to do more. This is climate justice,” said Secretary Borje.   “Let me say this loudly and clearly – this should not be a choice but an obligation. Justice requires this. Our collective moral fiber should be outraged if we cannot deliver climate justice,” he strongly underscored.     “Our call today: unlock climate finance for the developing world. Unlock it now before it is too late. We don’t ask for handouts. We call for urgent responsible partnership because the environment clock is ticking,” emphasized Secretary Borje.        Secretary Borje headed the Philippine Delegation comprising H.E. Maria Lumen Isleta, Philippine Ambassador to Sweden; National Economic and Development Authority Undersecretary Mercedita Sombilla, Minister Leila Lora-Santos of the Philippine Mission to the UN in New York City, Deputy Permanent Representative Maria Rossana Josue of the Philippine Embassy in Nairobi, and representatives from the Department of Finance and Department of Environment and Natural Resources.   Watch the full speech of Secretary Borje through this link: https://www.facebook.com/rtvmalacanang/videos/1679298362406131.   For updates regarding the participation of the CCC in Stockholm +50, follow our social media accounts at /CCCPhl and hashtag #CCCinStockholm50.

MANILA, 3 June 2022 — On the last day of the session of the 18th Congress, the House of Representatives adopted Resolution 2605, "Expressing the Sense of the House of Representatives for Climate Justice, Strengthened Implementation of the Philippines Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability Laws, and for the Developed Countries to Deliver on Their Commitments."   The House Resolution, authored by Antique Lone District Representative Loren Legarda, Bohol 1st District Representative Edgar Chatto, and Kabataan Partylist Representative Sarah Jane Elago, calls for the urgent and effective implementation of the country’s ten (10) environment and climate change laws, projects, and programs.   Through this Resolution, all government agencies are directed to maximize the utilization of their resources to improve the country's resilience to climate change and natural disasters.   The Resolution also demands developed countries to deliver on their Paris Agreement commitments, particularly in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing targets on their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC).   Developed countries are also urged to provide assistance to developing countries in the form of technology, capacity development, and, climate finance, which includes jointly mobilizing US$100 billion annually from 2020 to 2025.   The Resolution supports the establishment of an accountability mechanism for climate change and a specific Loss and Damage Fund through a policy framework.   It also calls for an enabling policy environment to transition the country towards sustainability and climate resilience by prioritizing relevant legislation and complementing national policies and frameworks on the environment and climate change.   Moreover, the Resolution seeks for climate justice from corporations and developed countries who are the major contributors to environmental degradation.   Lastly, the Resolution commits to ensure more youth participation in legislative proceedings and prioritize government funding for youth-oriented capacity-building programs for their various initiatives on environmental protection and climate action.   "Sana po ay patuloy nating bigyan ng ngipin, for effective and efficient implementation, ang ating 10 landmark environmental laws, so we will be ensured a climate-resilient, sustainable, green, and regenerative economy that will be fair and just to all the vulnerable populations of our country," Legarda said in her privilege speech.   The ten landmark environmental laws are as follows: Clean Air Act of 1999 (RA 8749); Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000 (Republic Act No. 9003); Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act of 2001 (RA 9147); Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System Act (RA 11038); Clean Water Act of 2004 (RA 9275); National Environmental Awareness and Education Act of 2008 (RA 9512); Renewable Energy Act of 2008 (RA 9513); Climate Change Act of 2009 (RA 9729), as amended by the People’s Survival Fund Act of 2012 (RA 10174); and the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010 (RA 10121).

MANILA, 3 June 2022 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) and the Department of Energy (DOE) are partnering towards promoting and mainstreaming the use of hybrid and electric vehicles in pursuit of a low-carbon, sustainable, and climate-resilient development in the country.   A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) was turned over to CCC by DOE last May 30 in a ceremony led by DOE Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi and CCC Secretary Robert E.A. Borje at the DOE Office in Bonifacio Global City.   The transfer is in line with DOE’s "Alternative Fuels Program for Transportation and Other Purposes," which promotes the use of cleaner alternative fuels and energy technologies for transportation.   The initiative is timely, especially with the recent enactment of Republic Act 11697, otherwise known as the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA), which provides for a national policy framework to develop the electric vehicle industry in the Philippines.   The endeavor is one step towards reducing the transportation sector's direct dependence on oil and gasoline, especially amidst rising fuel prices affecting consumers. It is also a move towards reducing air pollution levels, as it aligns with the climate change mitigation actions being articulated by the Commission.   CCC Secretary Borje  expressed gratitude to the DOE and reaffirmed the CCC's commitment to working with DOE and other national government agencies on sustainable energy and transport initiatives, and other mutually beneficial initiatives.

 

MANILA, 26 May 2022 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) continues its consultation with the members of the civil society organizations (CSOs) and non-government organizations (NGOs). The second consultation will happen this Monday, 30 May 2022, at the Las Piñas-Parañaque Wetland Park.   CCC Secretary Robert E.A. Borje, together with Commissioner Rachel Anne S. Herrera, and Commissioner Albert P. Dela Cruz, will lead the event to be participated  by representatives from CSOs and NGOs. This activity specifically aims to provide a venue for CSOs to provide inputs on the policy guidance of CCC under the new administration. It also seeks insights for climate change conferences, meetings, and events.   In April, the Commission held its first consultation with representatives from Aksyon Klima Pilipinas, Conservation International Philippines, Green Space Pilipinas, Mother Earth Foundation, OxFam Pilipinas, The Climate Reality Project Philippines, and the Philippine Center for Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development, Inc.   The activity is part of the CCC’s commitment to scale up activities, and  to foster deeper and broader engagement with civil society and non-government stakeholders, towards promoting an enabling environment for climate action.   For details and updates on the second consultation, email the CCC’s Strategic Partnership Division at [email protected].

MANILA, 19 May 2022 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) and the Climate Reality Project Philippines (TCRP) invite the public to watch the first episode of “Stories for A Better Reality,” this Friday, 20 May 2022, 10:00 AM via Facebook Live, in time for the celebration of International Day for Biological Diversity.   The pilot episode, entitled, “Biodiversity and Climate Change: Anong Konek?” will highlight the importance of protecting and restoring biodiversity, and the role of environment in climate change adaptation and mitigation.   This will be streamed live via the Facebook pages of the Climate Change Commission (https://www.facebook.com/CCCPhl) and the Climate Reality Project Philippines (https://www.facebook.com/climaterealityphilippines).   The webisode will feature guests including Jamie Dichavez, Campaign Lead of 30 x 30 Southeast Asia; Abigail Kitma, Chairperson of United Nations Youth Advisory Board; Director Natividad Bernardino from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Biodiversity Management Bureau (DENR-BMB); and Dr. Aimee Lynn Barrion-Dupo from the University of the Philippines-Los Baños.   The Philippines is considered a mega-diverse country and also a biodiversity hotspot, with an alarming pace of destruction of natural resources due to overexploitation, deforestation, land degradation, pollution, and climate change, among other factors.   The upcoming episode will feature government agencies, youth leaders, and non-governmental organizations that are at the forefront of developing and implementing strategies to mitigate the negative impacts of climate change and the loss of biodiversity.   “Stories for A Better Reality” seeks to tackle climate issues, promote initiatives and solutions, and inform policy and action by framing the discussion from the perspective of the youth.   This monthly webcast series is organized in partnership between the Climate Change Commission and the Climate Reality Project Philippines, with support from the Department of Education, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, National Youth Commission, Kids for Kids, and Wavefarers. 

MANILA, 29 April 2022 — Two Davao City students were hailed as grand champions of the Klimathon: Our Race Towards A Net Zero Reality hackathon in its awarding ceremony held virtually on 22 April 2022, in commemoration of Earth Day.   ‘Team Neutralizer’, composed of Jeremiah Malalis and Larry John Competente from the University of Mindanao (Davao City Campus), said that their innovation aims to help small-holder farmers to increase their income and production through automated bamboo vertical farming systems or hydroponics.   Their proposal, titled “Synthesis of Engineered Bamboo Nanocomposite Through Sol-Gel Technique: A Breakthrough in Automated Vertical Farming using Hydroponics in the Philippines,” bagged the Php 100,000 grand prize which can be used as seed money to further develop or implement their project.   ‘Genoplas’ from Mabini Academy High School in Lipa City, Batangas placed second followed by ‘Econique’ from Ateneo de Naga University. They received Php 50,000 and Php 40,000 cash prizes, respectively. All these three winners also took home trophies.   Special citation awards for Community Participation, Gender Empowerment, and Originality were also given recognition during the virtual ceremony.   Klimathon received more than 30 entries all over the country, of which the top ten teams were selected. The teams had undergone a mentoring program led by industry experts to further enhance their project concepts.   Their final project proposals were presented to the panel of judges led by Dr. Maria Angela Zafra, member of the CCC National Panel of Technical Experts, with members Undersecretary Analiza Rebuelta-Teh from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR); Ms. Antoinette Taus, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Goodwill Ambassador and Founder of CORA Philippines; Dr. Enrico C. Paringit, Executive Director of the Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD); and Ms. Jasmin Estacio, Innovation Portfolio Management Head of Nestlé Philippines Inc.   The complete list of winners of Klimathon, announced by Commissioner Rachel Herrera of the Climate Change Commission (CCC) and Ms. Cristine Ponce-Garcia, AVP of Sustainability and Public Affairs of Nestlé Philippines, are as follows:   Champion: Team Neutralizer Jeremiah Malalis and Larry John Competente University of Mindanao Davao City, Davao del Sur   1st runner-up: Team Genoplas Daphnie Yesha O. Valdez and Almira Grace C. Tenoso Mabini Academy High School Lipa City, Batangas   2nd runner-up: Team Econique Michelle De Vergara and Kristaleen Trisha Lagasca Ateneo de Naga University Naga City, Camarines Sur   Special Award: Community Participation: Team Tagubtub Jaspher Ian A. Gregorio, Nelson P. Dapal III, Princess Rau B. Cunanan Mindanao State University High School General Santos City, South Cotabato   Special Award: Gender Empowerment: Genoplas Daphnie Yesha O. Valdez and Almira Grace C. Tenoso Mabini Academy High School Lipa City, Batangas   Special Award: Originality: Econique Michelle De Vergara and Kristaleen Trisha Lagasca Ateneo de Naga University Naga City, Camarines Sur   Klimathon: Our Race Towards A Net Zero Reality, a joint project of the CCC and Nestlé Philippines, highlights the capability of young Filipino innovators to develop and showcase sustainability-focused solutions that can help address current issues and challenges relating to the climate crisis.   “For Klimathon, we are privileged to work with the youth in particular, by providing a platform for developing science-based solutions to climate change. You are the most passionate and creative of the society, and you can make a difference,” said Kais Marzouki, Chairman and CEO of Nestlé Philippines.   CCC Secretary Robert E.A. Borje expressed his gratitude to Nestlé Philippines in this endeavor to discover innovative solutions from the youth.   Further, Secretary Borje also congratulated the participants and winners of Klimathon and emphasized the critical role of the youth in the pursuit of sustainability and climate resilience.   “Let us continue to invest more in our youth, in our communities, and in our creativity and intellect as a nation towards sustainability and resiliency. This is the only way to go in order for us to secure a better future for our nation,” said Secretary Borje.   Watch the video of the Awarding Ceremony through this link: https://www.facebook.com/CCCPhl/videos/3853522294872965.

MANILA, 29 April 2022 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) conducted a series of activities this April in commemoration of Earth Month and Earth Day 2022 aimed at increasing awareness on and promoting climate change action and countering environmental degradation.   The CCC produced and released a special Earth Day video covering messages from climate leaders and advocates, including President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, CCC Chair-Designate and Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III, Secretary Robert E.A. Borje, Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, and National Panel of Technical Experts Chairperson Dr. Doracie Zoleta-Nantes.   “Let us work with greater vigor to engage our people, our local communities, our industries, and all other stakeholders in our efforts to achieve a climate-resilient and climate-smart Philippines,” said President Rodrigo Roa Duterte who chairs the CCC.   “The Philippines is well-positioned to make a difference in this battle against climate crisis. Let us work hand-in-hand to achieve a new low carbon economy and a greener future for all,” said CCC Chair-Designate and Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III.   “Buhay at kabuhayan ang nakasalalay sa nagbabagong klima, especially for developing countries like the Philippines. Your Climate Change Commission will continue to do its part to strengthen our collective efforts to address the impacts of climate change. We urge all sectors of the nation – and indeed of our planet – to together invest fully and completely – to climate change mitigation and adaptation. Sa kamay nating lahat nakasalalay ang ating kinabukasan.  Ating pangalagaan ang ating bayan at ang ating mundo,” said CCC Secretary Borje.   “Only if we respect nature as beauty and bounty, not only for humans, but for all living creations, can we survive climate change and other planetary threats. Only if we keep the planet and nature’s resources healthy and alive can we truly hope for a healthier, brighter, and more resilient future,” said Legarda.   “Protecting the health of our environment means protecting our communities from the threats that are brought about by the warming of the global atmosphere and intensification of weather events. This Earth Day and beyond, let us do our share together and get heavily involved in undertaking climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction programs and activities,” said Dr. Nantes.   The CCC launched a 12-day artcard series on social media entitled, “12 Ways over 12 Days toward climate-resilient, sustainable living” from April 10-22 to promote 12 simple climate adaptation and mitigation practices individuals and communities can undertake to address climate change.   On April 18, the CCC conducted its first-ever coastal clean-up at the Las Piñas–Parañaque Wetland Park (LPPWP) and to generate greater consciousness and actions on responsible consumer behaviour by reducing plastic consumption and observing waste management.   Secretary Borje, Commissioner Rachel Anne Herrera and Commissioner Albert Dela Cruz, along with CCC personnel collected 85 sacks of wastes weighing 583 kilograms, 511 kilograms of which were plastics.   The LPPWP was declared as a National Protected Area under Republic Act No. 11038 or the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System (ENIPAS) Act, and a Ramsar site under the Ramsar Convention of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The site is known for its rich mangrove and mudflat biodiversity and serves as a stopover of migratory birds.   On Earth Day, 22 April, the CCC co-organized the  “Pagyabong 2022: An Enrichment Tree Planting Activity” held at the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center (NAPWC) Arboretum. The tree planting activity highlighted this year’s Earth Day theme, “Invest in Our Planet,” by planting native trees as a practical way to address both environmental and climate crises. This activity was organized in collaboration with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Biodiversity Management Bureau and ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity.   Dubbed as the “Nature Park in City’s Heart,” the NAPWC is also legislated as one of the country’s Protected Areas under the ENIPAS Act and was declared as a national park.   Thereafter, the CCC, together with The Climate Reality Philippines and the Office of Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, facilitated the launch of “Stories For A Better Reality,” a monthly webinar series aimed at tackling climate issues, promoting initiatives and solutions, and informing policy and action framed from the perspective of the youth. This webinar evolved from the weekly Stories for A Better Normal aired from May 2020 to February 2022.   Finally on Earth day, the Awarding Ceremony of the Klimathon: Our Race Towards A Net Zero Reality was held. This is a joint project of the CCC and Nestlé Philippines to highlight the capability of young Filipino innovators to develop and showcase sustainability-focused solutions that can help address current issues and challenges relating to the climate crisis.   The proposal, “Synthesis of Engineered Bamboo Nanocomposite Through Sol-Gel Technique: A Breakthrough in Automated Vertical Farming using Hydroponics in the Philippines,” of ‘Team Neutralizer’, composed of Jeremiah Malalis and Larry John Competente from the University of Mindanao - Davao City Campus, bagged the Php 100,000 grand prize. This innovation aims to help small-holder farmers to increase their income and production through automated bamboo vertical farming system.   Meanwhile, on 28 April, the CCC held a dialogue and coastal clean-up with civil society organizations (CSOs). Discussions centered on strengthening partnerships with civil society and non-government stakeholders towards fostering  an enabling environment for climate action.   Present during the said activity were Aksyon Klima Pilipinas, Conservation International Philippines, Green Space Pilipinas, Mother Earth Foundation, OxFam Pilipinas, The Climate Reality Project Philippines, and the Philippine Center for Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development, Inc. For one hour, the CCC and the participating CSOs were able to collect 22 sacks of wastes weighing 137 kilograms.   “What's important in the climate change debate and action is that there is a strong partnership between government and the civil society sector. We need you as partners to tell us what we are doing right and what we are doing wrong and what we need to continue to improve on. Let us all work together,” said Secretary Borje.   To know more about the activities of the CCC, visit its social media handles at /CCCPhl.

Photo Credit: PCOO Global Media Affairs The Philippine delegation to the 4th Asia Pacific Water Summit led by Climate Change Commission Secretary Robert E.A. Borje and Department of Public Works and Highways Acting Secretary Roger G. Mercado attended briefings by the Philippine Embassy in Tokyo and Philippine Consulate General in Osaka, on April 23, 2022. Both officials participated in plenary and breakout sessions to advance Philippine positions on water resource management and security in the context of climate change mitigation and adaptation. President Rodrigo Roa Duterte addressed the 4th Asia Pacific Water Summit through a video message. President Rodrigo Roa Duterte designated Secretary Borje as Special Envoy and personal representative to the 4th Asia Pacific Water Summit.

Photo Credit: PCOO Global Media Affairs Climate Change Commission Secretary Robert E.A. Borje introduces President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and the President’s special video message at the Head of States and Government Meeting during the 4th Asia-Pacific Water Summit at the Kumamoto-Jo Hall in Kumamoto City, Japan, April 23, 2022. President Duterte called for bolder, wiser and urgent actions to address water-related issues in the region. He also emphasised the need for an integrated and coherent policy and the resolve to create opportunities for investment and collaboration for technological solutions. President Rodrigo Roa Duterte designated Secretary Borje as Special Envoy and personal representative to the 4th Asia Pacific Water Summit.

Photo Credit: PCOO Global Media Affairs Climate Change Commission Secretary Robert E.A. Borje and Tajikistan Energy Minister Juma Daler Shofaqir met on the sidelines of the 4th Asia-Pacific Water Summit at the Kumamoto-Jo Hall in Kumamoto City, Japan on April 24, 2022. During their meeting, the two officials discussed the interests of the Philippines and Tajikistan in water and energy resources management and climate-resilient infrastructure. They also committed to work together to further strengthen current collaboration and identify new areas of bilateral cooperation. Secretary Borje was joined by Consul General Voltaire Mauricio of the Philippine Consulate General in Osaka with jurisdiction over Kumamoto prefecture, and Second Secretary and Consul Jan Kenneth Bolante of the Philippine Embassy in Tokyo. President Rodrigo Roa Duterte designated Secretary Borje as Special Envoy and personal representative to the 4th Asia Pacific Water Summit.

Photo Credit: PCOO Global Media Affairs Climate Change Commission Secretary Robert E.A. Borje pays a courtesy call on Kumamoto Mayor Kazufumi Onishi at the sidelines of the 4th Asia-Pacific Water Summit in Kumamoto City, Japan on April 24, 2022. Secretary Borje congratulated Mayor Onishi on the successful hosting of the Summit. Secretary Borje also highlighted the importance of local government action for climate change adaptation and mitigation and resiliency, citing Kumamoto as a leader in these two key areas. Secretary Borje was joined by Consul General Voltaire Mauricio of the Philippine Consulate General in Osaka with jurisdiction over Kumamoto prefecture. President Rodrigo Roa Duterte designated Secretary Borje as Special Envoy and personal representative to the 4th Asia Pacific Water Summit.

MANILA, 26 April 2022 —  The Climate Change Commission (CCC) and The Climate Reality Project Philippines (TCRP) have launched a monthly webinar series titled “Stories for A Better Reality” to tackle climate issues, promote initiatives and solutions, and inform policy and action framed from the perspective of the youth.   ‘Stories for a Better Reality’ premiered on Friday, 22 April 2022, in time for the commemoration of Earth Day. The launch featured snippets from last year's Earth Day 2021 webcast themed PINASiglang Mundo and 76 episodes of the Stories for A Better Normal series, all led by CCC.    The launch also featured messages from national government agencies, civil society organizations, and youth climate reality leaders to encourage viewers, especially young people, to engage in conversations as advocates for climate action.   “Real stories are powerful ways of moving people to think, decide, and act.  And we need to think clearly about climate change, decide on what needs to be done, and act accordingly to help save humanity and our planet,” said CCC Secretary Robert E.A. Borje in his opening message.   “Let’s rally more to be part of the climate movement, and let’s continue fighting for the world that you and I imagined and make it a reality for us all,” said TCRP Branch Manager Nazrin Camille D. Castro.   Stories for A Better Reality evolves from the Stories for A Better Normal, a weekly webinar series under the collaboration of the CCC and the Office of Deputy Speaker Legarda. The Stories for a Better Normal went live streamed on Facebook from May 2020 to February 2022 with a total of 76 episodes.   “It is important that talks on climate action and sustainability often seen too technical and complex, are better understood by the younger generation,” said Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda as she expressed support to the program.   Stories for a Better Reality was launched in partnership between the Climate Change Commission and the Climate Reality Project Philippines, with support from the Department of Education, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Kids for Kids, and Wavefarers.

MANILA, 23 April 2022 — The Philippines will join the two-day 4th Asia-Pacific Water Summit (APWS) in Kumamoto City, Japan. The Summit, happening on 23-24 April 2022, was originally scheduled in April 2020, but postponed due to the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.   President Rodrigo Roa Duterte will address the summit in a video message. President Duterte is expected to urge greater regional cooperation to ensure better water resources management and security.   Meanwhile, President Duterte appointed Climate Change Commission Secretary Robert E.A. Borje as his Special Envoy and representative. Secretary Borje will participate in plenary and breakout sessions to advance key Philippine positions on water resource management and security in the context of climate change.   Anchored on the theme, “Water for Sustainable Development-Best Practices and the Next Generation,” heads of states and representatives from international organizations in the Asia-Pacific region will gather to address various water-related issues and pursue efforts toward sustainable development.   The 4th APWS will also share the long-standing efforts of the host city, Kumamoto, in conserving groundwater as well as its recovering efforts from the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquakes.   Secretary Borje, as the representative of President Duterte, will share crucial steps of the Philippines to attain water security, including our pursuit of an enhanced policymaking, oversight, regulatory and management substructures at various levels for an integrated climate-adaptive water resources management. Access more details about the 4th Asia-Pacific Water Summit by visiting its website at https://www.4apws-kumamoto2022.jp/..

Secretary Robert E.A. Borje of the Climate Change Commission and Ambassador Laure Beaufils of the United Kingdom jointly underscored the importance of advancing COP26 Glasgow agreements in order to urgently address climate change challenges. Secretary Borje and Ambassador Beaufils renewed the commitment to further enhance practical and pragmatic bilateral projects, including mainstreaming, to bolster PH-UK contributions to climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts. Secretary Borje and Ambassador Beaufils identified the Masantol Case Study in Pampanga as a possible area of joint partnership.

  Secretary Robert E.A. Borje of the Climate Change Commission and Ambassador Ilan Fluss of the State of Israel reaffirmed the importance of the Philippines-Israel partnership in addressing climate change challenges. Secretary Borje and Ambassador Fluss agreed to further strengthen cooperation in innovation and technology to ramp up capacities in climate change adaptation and mitigation.

MANILA, 13 April 2022 — In preparation for the Klimathon Awarding Ceremony which will be held on Earth Day, 22 April 2022, Atty. Rachel Anne Herrera, Commissioner of the Climate Change Commission, and Ms. Christine Ponce-Garcia, Assistant Vice President of Nestlé Philippines, welcomed the judging panel composed of key officials from the public and private sector, the academe, and subject matter experts who specialize on climate science and environment. Among the Klimathon Finalists, the judges will decide on the Top 3 innovative and sustainability-focused solutions anchored on the following pillars: plastic waste management; energy efficiency and renewable energy; and food security. Special awards will also be given to proposals that showcase originality; promote gender empowerment; and support community participation. The panel of judges is chaired by the CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje, with members Undersecretary Analiza Rebuelta-Teh of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR); Dr. Maria Angela Zafra, National Panel of Technical Experts Member, CCC; Ms. Antoinette Taus, UNEP Goodwill Ambassador and Founder of CORA Philippines; Dr. Enrico C. Paringit from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST); and Ms. Jasmine Estacio, Innovation Portfolio Management Head of Nestlé Philippines.

From left to right: Dean Rico C. Ancog of the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) School of Environmental Science and Management; Climate Change Commission (CCC) Secretary Robert E.A. Borje; and Dr. Patricia Sanchez, Chairperson of the UPLB Interdisciplinary Studies Center for Water and member of the CCC National Panel of Technical Experts during the CCC’s visit to UPLB for the data collection relevant to the ongoing Masantol case study.   MANILA, 12 April 2022 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) is eyeing closer collaboration on water resources management and data sharing with the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) as part of the CCC’s strategic partnership strengthening program with State Universities and Colleges (SUCs).   In his visit to the (UPLB) Interdisciplinary Studies Center for Water (ISCW), at the UPLB School of Environmental Science and Management (SESAM), CCC Secretary Robert E.A. Borje recognized the important role played by the academe and research institutions in “building national capacities for climate change adaptation and mitigation.”   “UPLB’s SESAM and ISCW are well placed to provide a deeper and fuller understanding of the Philippines’ water resources and the ways forward to use and manage them sustainably and harness them properly to support the country’s climate change action agenda,” said Secretary Borje.   Secretary Borje thanked Dr. Patricia Ann J. Sanchez, member of the National Panel of Technical Experts (NPTE) and Chairperson of UPLB’s ISCW, for sharing data on rainfall projections and other datasets pertinent to the work of the Commission, particularly on the ongoing development of a case study on flooding in Masantol, Pampanga.   “There is a compelling task for us to do more than what we are doing right now, especially [in] mainstreaming climate change and in harnessing local experience and expertise as we work to combat climate change.  As the lead agency in the formulation and coordination of relevant policies, the CCC looks to stronger partnerships with SUCs for science-based and data-based driven policy recommendations,” said Sec. Borje.   Underscoring the willingness of the ISCW to work with the CCC, Dr. Sanchez pointed out that the Center was providing key data that covers the whole Pampanga River Basin.   For his part, Dean and Professor of UPLB SESAM Dr. Rico C. Ancog welcomed Secretary Borje’s visit and said that UPLB looks forward to continuous engagement with the CCC in the field of research, extension and development projects on water and climate change.   “This is what we are doing, teaching and academic research. We're serious about doing good research, but we want this to be something, a platform that could be for a lifetime. One thing we can really provide is the more holistic research, so this is really a good start to support the work of the Climate Change Commission,” said Dr. Ancog.   Secretary Borje also highlighted the crucial role of the academe and research institutions in helping local government units better understand climate and disaster risks in order to formulate more appropriate plans of action in addressing climate change within their communities.   “This is only the start of what a stronger partnership should be in the next few years, not just on research, but also in the implementation of climate adaptation projects,” Sec. Borje affirmed. 

Climate Change Commission Secretary Robert E.A. Borje intervenes and urges the UNFCCC to streamline processes, improve modalities to access climate finance for stronger adaptive capacities of vulnerable nations. Secretary Borje delivered his virtual intervention from Manila during the Fifteenth Meeting of the Executive Committee (ExCom) of the Warsaw International Mechanism (WIM) for Loss and Damage associated with Climate Change Impacts held in Bonn, Germany.   MANILA, 12 April 2022 — Philippine Climate Change Commission (CCC) Secretary Robert E.A. Borje called on the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change to streamline processes and improve modalities in accessing available climate finance to strengthen the adaptive capacities of vulnerable communities to the impacts of climate change.   At the Fifteenth Meeting of the Executive Committee (ExCom) of the Warsaw International Mechanism (WIM) for Loss and Damage associated with Climate Change Impacts held in Bonn, Germany, Secretary Borje stressed the urgency of accessing climate finance, pointing out that “The window of opportunity to limit the global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius is rapidly closing. The clock is ticking," said Borje.   Secretary Borje, in his intervention delivered virtually from Manila, stressed that vulnerable nations like the Philippines seeking vital financing support for adaptation continued to bear the weight of damages and losses resulting from climate-related disasters.   He underscored the need for “developed countries to fulfill their climate finance commitments, with limited domestic fiscal resources becoming even scarcer as developing countries deal with the impacts of climate change.”   Secretary Borje underlined that for the Philippines, climate-related disasters in the agriculture sector alone cost 0.05 percent of its Gross Domestic Product annually.    He also said that Typhoons “Rai”, “Vamco” and “Goni” caused loss and damage valued at around 1.2 billion US dollars which “represents my Government’s national health insurance funding for approximately 61 million Filipinos. That is around 56% of the Philippines total population,” adding that “the cascading impacts of loss and damage are compounded further by the COVID-19 pandemic and its burden on the country’s economy.”   Secretary Borje warned that while sound fiscal policies and an integrated pandemic response is helping the Philippines bounce back from the pandemic, the world “does not want a worst case scenario where the climate change costs will be too much for us in the developing world to bear.”   “We need urgent climate action to protect and help vulnerable countries like the Philippines improve resilience and adaptive capabilities,” said Secretary Borje.   Borje reminded the Meeting that at the core of climate adaptation and mitigation is “the principle of climate justice. To the least responsible for climate change, to those with the least resources to the most exposed, we need to do more” adding further that “More needs to be done. Together.”   On the other hand, “The Philippines will continue to do its part, with actions firmly founded on our national climate change strategy. We will proceed with strengthening our country’s anticipatory adaptation capacity through the Formulation of the National Adaptation Plan for Climate Change; Stocktaking for the National Climate Risk Management Framework towards enhanced Risk Data Governance and Information Systems; and, Adaptation Case-Building,” Secretary Borje affirmed.   He also explained that funding alone will not suffice and underlined that access must be enhanced. Financing and investments, technology and innovation, and capacity development, through inclusive multilateralism, are crucial as well.   “These tools will help vulnerable countries like the Philippines to address intensifying loss and damage from climate hazards and to implement “no-regrets” and more cost-effective climate actions,” said Secretary Borje.   In closing, Secretary Borje said that the Philippines and other developing countries must do bolder, more coherent action to minimize and avert loss and damage by connecting meaningfully with technical and financial assistance providers to unlock much-needed resources to comprehensively address these climate risks.   “Let us look at ways to streamline processes, simplify procedures, and improve the efficiencies of existing modalities. This is a huge challenge for this Committee. But the Philippines believes that no responsibility is too big nor any task too small as we continue to work together to ensure that climate justice is achieved,” he concluded.   Representatives from New Zealand, Pakistan, and the Climate Action Network commended the Philippines’ steadfast dedication to climate action.