The Climate Change Commission (CCC) participates in the Local Governance Summit 2024 held in Pasay City on August 22 to 23.

MANILA, Philippines — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) lauded the recently concluded Local Governance Summit 2024 held at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay, saying local government units (LGUs) have a crucial role to play in building climate-resilient communities. 

The CCC highlighted President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s message, who, in his speech said, “This is an opportunity for each of us to reflect on the huge responsibility that we all hold in our hands—the ability to transform our respective communities and the lives of those within them under the banner of a Bagong Pilipinas,” President Marcos stated.

Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) noted that the summit provided a platform for collaboration among various agencies, LGUs, and other stakeholders.

 “I’ll make sure that each and every one of you will have the chance to collaborate and exchange best practices, aiming to reach the grassroots and build a stronger, more unified government,” Abalos said.

Recognizing that LGUs are on the frontlines of climate change impacts—such as floods, tropical cyclones and droughts—the CCC stressed the need for local governments to access technical assistance, tools, and innovative strategies to safeguard the well-being of their communities.

The summit covered key areas, including efficient smart local governance, the Green, Green, Green program and best practices of LGUs, climate resiliency, environmental governance, and the National Adaptation Plan (NAP). These discussions aimed to address climate change, the most pressing issue facing the country.

The event featured booth exhibits from various agencies, where the CCC showcased policies and programs such as the NAP and People's Survival Fund (PSF).

"The participation of the Climate Change Commission helps localize our plans and policies for the LGUs, addressing global issues on a local scale. It also fosters collaboration with other agencies to build more cohesive and effective strategies," CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje said.

He encouraged LGUs to be proactive in seeking assistance from the CCC and PSF. “Submit more project proposals that address climate change adaptation and mitigation in your respective communities. This will help us better understand your needs and tailor our assistance accordingly. Through our collective efforts, we can develop innovative solutions against the effects of climate change,” Borje added.

The Local Governance Summit 2024 brought together local chief executives, national government agencies, international stakeholders, and private sector leaders under the theme “LGUs sa Bagong Pilipinas: Smart, Resilient, Driven.”

The CCC remains steadfast in its commitment to provide the tools, resources, and technical assistance that LGUs need to implement effective climate action plans.

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