The Climate Change Commission (CCC) highlights the importance of climate-resilient agriculture and science-based crop conservation in ensuring food security and strengthening national climate resilience.

CALAMBA, Laguna — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) underscored the critical role of sustainable and climate-resilient agriculture in strengthening the country’s food security and overall climate resilience, in line with the priorities of the National Adaptation Plan (NAP).

In one of its learning site visits, the CCC highlighted how climate-smart and regenerative farming practices contribute to resilient food systems and support rural livelihoods, especially that the agriculture system is one of the most vulnerable sectors to climate change identified in the NAP.

“Under the National Adaptation Plan, the country’s strategic framework designed to strengthen climate resilience, agriculture remains among the most at-risk sectors under a changing climate, facing increasing threats from extreme weather events, shifting rainfall patterns, and rising temperatures,” CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje said.

He emphasized that addressing these risks requires the adoption and scaling of climate-smart and regenerative agricultural practices that protect food systems while strengthening the adaptive capacity of farming communities.

“Agriculture is not only a productivity concern but a core climate adaptation strategy under the NAP,” Borje said.

Aligned with this strategy, the administration of President Ferdinand R.  Marcos Jr. champions the adaptation theme "Securing Food Supply: Nurture Nature, Sustain Livelihoods," which aims to achieve productive and resilient agriculture and fisheries while ensuring food security, promoting sustainability, and empowering small farmers and fisherfolk.

A practical example of this approach was showcased during the learning site visit to the Filipinas Cacao Heritage Reserve Inc. (FCHRI), a farm dedicated to the conservation and propagation of heritage Criollo cacao. The CCC observed firsthand how science-based, organic, and regenerative farming approaches can reduce climate risks while supporting rural livelihoods. The visit highlighted the role of sustainable agriculture in safeguarding heritage crops, improving soil and water management, and enhancing resilience amid climate variability.

As part of its organic and regenerative reforestation efforts, FCHRI employs modern and sustainable farming methods, including drip irrigation systems, Organic Integrated Pest Management (IPM), aerobic composting, and the use of ecological indicators, while avoiding harmful synthetic chemicals. In this way, the farm integrates data-driven and automated farming tools aimed at improving productivity, optimizing resource use, and increasing the resilience of the cacao trees to microclimate conditions.

Borje noted that initiatives such as those implemented by the FCHRI set an example on how science-based and regenerative farming can help reduce climate risks while strengthening food security and rural livelihoods.

“The depth of research done behind the conservation and propagation of Criollo cacao shows how science-based, organic, and regenerative approaches are needed to strengthen climate adaptation in agriculture,” Borje added.

Affirming the same view, farm owner Jacqueline Sy Go emphasized the critical role of science and innovation in sustaining heritage cacao varieties. She highlighted that the farm’s work is carried out by a multidisciplinary team of Filipino agriculturists, foresters, and engineers.

“This research is crucial, especially now that we can no longer rely on predictable seasons and are experiencing more frequent and intense typhoons,” Go said. “Science-based farming allows us to adapt, protect our crops, and ensure the long-term viability of cacao cultivation.”

The learning site visit further explored potential areas of collaboration aligned with the CCC’s mandates on climate resilience, sustainable agriculture, and in ensuring that cultural, historical, and natural heritage sites are protected against climate-related risks.

The CCC continues to advocate for climate-resilient and inclusive development that protects heritage crops, empowers farming communities, and secures food supply in a changing climate.

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