The Climate Change Commission (CCC) Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje underscores the need for transformative, science-based, and multisectoral climate action during the inaugural Climate Actors’ Forum and Exchange held at Novotel Manila, Quezon City.

Manila, Philippines – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) emphasized the need for multisectoral and science-based collaboration to strengthen the country’s adaptation and action pathways at the inaugural Climate Actors’ Forum and Exchange.

In his keynote message, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje highlighted the importance of integrating scientific knowledge with policy, governance, and local action to address growing climate risks in the Philippines.

He underscored that advancing adaptation requires deliberate foresight, and that “to build right at first sight is to make resilience deliberate, not accidental, and the discipline of foresight that saves lives, livelihoods, and resources.” He added, “Because the measure of good governance is not how fast we rebuild, but how rarely we need to.”

Anchored on the findings of the Philippine Climate Change Assessment Report Cycle 2 (PhilCCA C2), the forum brought together representatives from government, academe, civil society, and the private sector to discuss the latest research on climate science, impacts, and solutions. The CCC reaffirmed that the PhilCCA serves as a key reference for implementing the country’s National Adaptation Plan (NAP) 2023–2050 and Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC).

“The PhilCCA tells us where we stand and what is at stake,” Borje said.

He noted that the Philippines is warming faster than the global average, with sea levels rising at three times the global rate. He warned that without urgent and collective efforts, climate-related losses could reach ₱506 billion annually — equivalent to 7.6 percent of GDP by 2030 and 13.6 percent by 2040.

Citing the guidance of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to strengthen science-based and evidence-informed climate action, the CCC called on all stakeholders to use the PhilCCA findings to guide local and sectoral strategies, bridge data gaps, and identify practical solutions for adaptation and mitigation. Borje also reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to ensure that the Philippines’ climate agenda remains grounded in science, transparency, and shared responsibility.

“Let us open that window wider to let in science, collaboration, and accountability. Let us expand the space not only for discussion, but for decision and delivery,” Borje said.

Organized by the Oscar M. Lopez Center, the Climate Actors’ Forum and Exchange also featured plenary discussions by the PhilCCA working groups, parallel sessions on sectoral adaptation, and an expo showcasing climate innovations and partnerships.