Senator Loren Legarda joins the 16th University Day and Academic Recognition Day of Sultan Kudarat State University, emphasizing the role of State Universities and Colleges as leaders of climate action.

ISULAN, Sultan Kudarat – Senator Loren Legarda called on State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) to lead climate action and support local government units (LGUs), stressing their role in strengthening resilience and protecting communities from the impacts of climate change.

Legarda made the call during the 16th University Day and Academic Recognition Day of Sultan Kudarat State University (SKSU), where she emphasized that education must extend beyond classrooms and translate into solutions that directly benefit communities.

A long-time climate champion and Chair of the Senate Committee on Higher, Technical and Vocational Education, Legarda said SUCs serve as the bedrock of the country’s sustainable development, with the capacity to generate science-based solutions that inform local climate action.

“You are the hubs of innovation and the stewards of our future. From your research on renewable energy and mangrove protection to your work in climate-smart agriculture and just transition, you are proving that the academe is well poised to lead tangible change,” Legarda said.

She underscored the need to mainstream climate and environmental stewardship across all academic disciplines, noting that climate action must be institutionalized rather than treated as a stand-alone or elective effort.

Legarda encouraged SUCs to strengthen their engagement with LGUs by translating research into local policies, programs, and practices that address climate risks on the ground, particularly in vulnerable communities.

She also welcomed SKSU’s partnership with Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka (UTeM), noting that academic collaboration enhances knowledge exchange and supports locally grounded climate solutions.

Senator Loren Legarda was represented by Climate Change Commission Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje, who delivered her keynote message.

SKSU marked its 16th University Day with academic recognition activities, highlighting its continuing commitment to education, innovation, and community engagement in support of sustainable development.

For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.