The Climate Change Commission Vice Chairperson and Executive Director, Robert E.A. Borje joins the “Provincial Climate and Disaster Risk Summit: Hagiyos,” where he underscores the critical role of local government units in translating national action plans into concrete and effective strategies on the ground.

MAGDIWANG, ROMBLON — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) underscored the critical role of local government units (LGUs) in translating national climate action plans into concrete and effective strategies on the ground during the Provincial Climate and Disaster Risk Summit: Hagiyos held in Sibuyan Island, Romblon.
 

The CCC emphasized the need to harmonize local climate action plans amid the continuing intensification of climate change impacts, which affect families and communities in Romblon through intense rainfall and stronger typhoons.

“Araw-araw, hinaharap natin ang isang katotohanan—na ang ating buhay at kabuhayan ay nagiging mas marupok, kapag tayo’y nag-aatubili at hindi kumikilos,” said CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje.

He stressed that LGUs must move beyond planning and toward disciplined implementation to secure a climate-resilient future for the province, noting that “science tells us where the risks are. Discipline ensures we act on that knowledge.”

The CCC also highlighted key national policy frameworks that guide and strengthen the country’s resilience efforts, including the National Adaptation Plan (NAP), the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), and the People’s Survival Fund (PSF), which support the use of science-based approaches in local decision-making and implementation.

The summit formed part of the development of the province’s Nine-Year Climate and Disaster Risk Resilience Roadmap for 2026 to 2034, which aims to provide a clear and strategic direction for addressing climate risks at the local level.

In support of this initiative, the CCC provided technical guidance to local stakeholders in updating their Local Climate Change Action Plans, ensuring alignment with the NAP, toward the formulation of a responsive and science-informed roadmap.

Romblon Provincial Governor Trina Alejandra Q. Firmalo-Fabic emphasized the importance of a long-term roadmap in strengthening the province’s preparedness and resilience against climate impacts. She noted that having a clear plan enables communities to act proactively, avoid losses and damages, and adopt best practices that ensure readiness.

The event gathered local leaders, including mayors from the municipalities of Magdiwang, Romblon, and Cajidiocan, vice mayors, partners, civil society organizations, and national government agencies.

The CCC remains committed to supporting LGUs through capacity building and technical assistance in crafting effective, science-based, and locally tailored climate action plans.

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