MANILA - The Climate Change Commission (CCC) emphasized the important role of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) in shaping a more climate-conscious and action-driven student population during the commemoration of International Mother Earth Day.

Acknowledging the spike in enrollment in the past two years, Secretary Robert E.A. Borje, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director, raised a crucial question: How many of them truly understand climate change?

"Many students and young people care deeply about the planet, yet they often lack a full understanding of climate change, its root causes, long-term impacts, and the urgency of action," Borje stressed.

Data show that enrollment rose from 4.1 million in 2022 to 5.1 million in 2024. For Academic Year 2020-2021, the most pursued programs were Business Administration and related courses, followed by Education Science and Teacher Training, and Engineering and Technology.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported in 2023 that 90 percent of Filipinos, or over 94 million individuals, are considered literate based on the latest Census of Population.

Borje emphasized that while basic literacy and school enrollment remain high, the real challenge lies in fostering a deeper understanding of climate issues.
"CHED holds a unique position. You inform, inspire, and influence the next generation of leaders. By shaping young minds, you cultivate their role as stewards of our planet," he added.

Borje urged CHED to continue championing research grounded in sustainability and to promote the integration of climate education across all academic disciplines and programs, explaining that a collective effort and climate education are key to achieving long-term climate resilience goals.

International Mother Earth Day, designated by the UN General Assembly in 2009, is a call to action against the worsening degradation of ecosystems, as the planet experiences intense heat, heavy flash floods, and polluted oceans. Such impacts affect millions of people that destroy their lives, livelihoods, and futures. 

The event gathered the officials and staff of CHED, led by Chairperson J. Prospero E. De Vera III, alongside Commissioners Dr. Ethel Agnes Pascua-Valenzuela, Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis, Dr. Marita A. Canapi, Dr. Dennis R. Apag III, and Atty. Cinderella Filipina S. Benitez-Jaro, Executive Director.

The CCC remains committed to elevating climate awareness and responsibility across the nation and to supporting programs that advocate for transformative climate action.

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