Bamboo, a type of grass, stands tall as a nature-based solution that advances climate action while supporting resilient and inclusive economic growth. MANILA —The Climate Change Commission (CCC) recently launched the campaign “Kawayan: Kabalikat ng Klima at Komunidad” to advance progressive bamboo development as a nature-based solution (NbS) that supports climate action, strengthens resilience, and unlocks sustainable economic opportunities for communities. Featuring a series of informational materials released through the Commission’s Facebook and Instagram platforms, the campaign aims to raise public awareness on bamboo’s role in climate action and promote inclusive and sustainable development that places communities at the center of resilience building. Bamboo offers multiple benefits to communities, as it absorbs carbon emissions that drive global warming, stores water, and provides natural protection against climate impacts such as strong winds and flooding. The Philippines has an estimated 39,000 to 53,000 hectares of land suitable for bamboo cultivation. This vast potential highlights opportunities to strengthen community livelihoods while contributing to a more resilient and progressive economy, particularly in rural and climate-vulnerable areas. CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje emphasized bamboo’s strategic value as both an ecological solution and an economic driver, underscoring the need to expand and diversify bamboo species as part of the country’s long-term climate and development agenda. “Bamboo is a powerful partner in climate action. It captures carbon, reduces the impact of strong winds and storms, and supports ecosystem stability. These outcomes reflect the strength of nature-based solutions anchored in the National Adaptation Plan to advance science-based and evidence-driven adaptation efforts,” Borje said. “With wider and well-planned bamboo development, we can strengthen climate resilience, reinforce adaptation measures, and protect communities, especially those most exposed to climate risks,” he added. The National Adaptation Plan (NAP) serves as the country’s primary policy framework for climate adaptation, providing a science-based and evidence-informed roadmap for reducing climate risks. Developed under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the NAP advances the government’s vision for climate-smart development and more effective, coordinated adaptation action. Borje further noted that bamboo contributes to national economic growth, particularly through furniture manufacturing and engineered bamboo products that offer strong domestic and global market potential. “Engineered bamboo alone has the capacity to generate up to ₱400 billion in annual revenue. This figure does not yet account for the many small-scale enterprises that depend on bamboo for crafts, housing materials, and local products. Through bamboo cultivation, we create jobs, support local industries, and advance climate action at the same time,” Borje said. The Philippines is home to around 70 bamboo species, 21 of which are endemic and found only in the country. This biodiversity reflects the country’s natural wealth and supports its position as the sixth-largest bamboo exporter globally, while opening pathways for green jobs that align with global climate goals. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.

The Climate Change Commission (CCC), led by Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje, met with Taguig City Mayor Lani Cayetano to discuss climate action, sustainability, and collaboration. TAGUIG CITY, Metro Manila — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) met with Taguig City Mayor Maria Laarni “Lani” Lopez Cayetano to discuss the city’s climate initiatives, sustainable practices, and potential areas of cooperation aligned with national strategies to strengthen local climate action and urban resilience. The meeting highlighted Taguig City’s ongoing efforts in sustainability and climate governance, as well as opportunities to further enhance the implementation and mainstreaming of its local climate plans. Discussions centered on nature-based and people-centered solutions that respond to the city’s unique context as a lakeside urban community, with particular attention to protecting livelihoods dependent on Laguna Lake, following its trademark identity as a “Probinsyudad,” a portmanteau of probinsya (province) and siyudad (city). “These are not merely projects for their own sake; they are initiatives designed to address the real needs of our people, ensuring that no one, including fisherfolk, is left behind,” said CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje. “Taguig City’s Probinsyudad concept, which redefines progress and prosperity, offers a valuable policy lesson for other LGUs in Metro Manila to develop their own localized models of sustainable development.” “True progress is not measured only by infrastructure or economic growth, but by whether communities are safer, livelihoods are protected, and future generations inherit a stable and healthy home,” Borje further pointed out. Mayor Cayetano emphasized the city's commitment to urgent climate action, fostering partnerships, and advancing sustainability and community participation through initiatives, including youth-focused climate advocacy. "Climate action is more urgent than ever, and our City continues to take meaningful steps by partnering with organizations that champion sustainability and community participation,” Mayor Cayetano said. “Through collaborations on youth leadership and climate advocacy, we are moving closer to a sustainable and climate-conscious Probinsyudad." The CCC recognized Taguig City’s integrated approach to urban sustainability, which balances development with heritage conservation, livelihood protection, and inclusive growth, highlighting the city’s approach as a potential model for other local governments. The Commission also emphasized that initiatives such as sustainable lakeshore management, urban and water-based farming, public open spaces, and climate-responsive urban planning are consistent with the National Adaptation Plan and the Nationally Determined Contribution Implementation Plan, both developed under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. The meeting also explored opportunities for capacity building and collaboration in climate planning, urban adaptation, sustainable agriculture, climate finance, youth engagement, and public awareness campaigns. The engagement attests to the CCC’s commitment to support local governments in strengthening climate governance and accelerating inclusive, science-based, and people-centered climate action. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.

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.

Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte and Bacnotan Mayor Divina Fontanilla receive the Gawad Lingkod Bayan ng Pangulo Award, the highest civil service honor. Both mayors are also recipients of the Philippine Resilience Awards for their transformative work in local climate resilience. MANILA, 3 February 2026 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) lauded Mayor Josefina “Joy” G. Belmonte of Quezon City and Mayor Divina C. Fontanilla of Bacnotan, La Union, for receiving the Gawad Lingkod Bayan ng Pangulo Award, the highest civil service recognition in the country. This award underscores their exceptional leadership and transformative impact in local governance, setting a national standard for sustainable development. The CCC is proud to honor both mayors, who have long been recognized as champions of resilience. Their prior distinction as women champions under the Philippine Resilience Awards highlighted their early and sustained commitment to safeguarding their constituents, a legacy that this new national honor further strengthens. “The Gawad Lingkod Bayan ng Pangulo Award to Mayor Belmonte and Mayor Fontanilla validates the critical role of visionary local leadership in the national climate agenda. These women leaders exemplify how dedicated public service can turn climate challenges into opportunities for sustainable growth,” said CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje. Mayor Belmonte has positioned Quezon City as a leader in urban climate action through the comprehensive work in solarization, sustainable mobility, and plastic pollution reduction. This earned her international acclaim as a UN Environmental Programme Champion of the Earth. Mayor Fontanilla has transformed Bacnotan, La Union, into a model of community-led resilience through her administration's pioneering Drowning Prevention Program. This is complemented by mangrove reforestation and regular coastal cleanup drives, which enhance natural defenses against storm surges and erosion. “Mayors Belmonte and Fontanilla are true resilience champions. Their proactive, innovative, and science-based approaches in building green, resilient, and safe communities are exactly the models we need to replicate across the nation,” said CCC Commissioner Rachel Anne S. Herrera, Convenor of the Philippine Resilience Awards. The CCC urges all local government leaders to draw inspiration from the awardees' exemplary work and to partner in accelerating climate and disaster resilience efforts across the archipelago.

Solar panels, installed on the rooftop of the City of Bacoor Sports Gymnasium, contribute to the clean and renewable power supply of the solar-powered Bacoor Government Center complex. MANILA– The Climate Change Commission (CCC) has emphasized support for a just and inclusive energy transition as part of the commemoration of the International Day of Clean Energy on January 26, 2026. According to the Philippines’ Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) under the Paris Agreement, the energy sector is a key contributor to the country’s emissions reduction efforts. Specifically, the NDC Implementation Plan, developed and submitted during the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., underscores the need to scale up renewable energy deployment, with the Philippines targeting an increased share of renewable energy in the power generation mix by 2030 to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. The CCC recognized that coal, oil, and gas contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, driving extreme weather and rising temperatures. Transitioning to clean energy is a key step toward a safer and more sustainable future. A shift to clean energy brings tangible benefits for people and the planet. Renewable energy reduces air pollution, improves public health, lowers long-term energy costs, and protects ecosystems that communities rely on for food, water, and livelihoods. CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje emphasized the importance of a gradual and inclusive approach. “To reduce climate impacts, we must carefully and progressively move away from fossil fuels toward clean energy solutions. This transition must be just and inclusive, giving communities and sectors time and support to adjust.” Borje added that clean energy sources identified under national climate and energy frameworks include hydropower, geothermal, solar, wind, and biomass, with grid modernization and smart grid technologies supporting the integration of these renewable energy sources into the power system. The CCC also highlighted ongoing initiatives that support the country’s just transition to clean energy, including capacity-building programs for local governments, partnerships with private sector developers, and policies that encourage renewable energy investments. These efforts aim to ensure that communities are empowered and prepared to participate in the shift toward sustainable energy. “Clean energy is not just about technology; it is about people and communities. Our programs focus on raising awareness, providing training, and creating opportunities so that everyone can benefit from a sustainable energy future,” Borje said. These efforts are aligned with the guidance and vision of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., supporting the country’s transition toward a climate-smart and inclusive Philippines. The International Day of Clean Energy was declared by the United Nations General Assembly through resolution A/77/327 to raise global awareness of the role of clean energy in addressing climate change. As the country joined the global observance, the CCC called for stronger awareness and collective action to advance a green transition that leaves no one behind. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.

The Climate Change Commission (CCC) underscores the importance of climate journalism in translating policy into public understanding and accountability at Terra Asia, a project supported by France Diplomacy and implemented by Canal France International (CFI) in partnership with the Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development (AIBD). The project focuses on strengthening environmental reporting, countering misinformation, and promoting cross-border collaboration among media professionals in the region.   Makati City – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) highlighted the importance of responsible storytelling during the national wrap-up seminar of Terra Asia, a project initiative of Canal France International (CFI), which aims to upskill journalists in Asia and the Pacific in dealing with ecological information and combating misinformation. Speaking at the event, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje emphasized that journalism plays a critical role in climate governance by translating policy into public understanding and accountability. “Responsible storytelling does not merely explain policy. It completes policy by subjecting it to public understanding and public consequence,” Borje said. “And public consequence matters because understanding creates accountability.” Borje underscored that in a country highly vulnerable to climate impacts, informed reporting strengthens processes by making climate risks, decisions, and trade-offs visible to the public particularly at the local level where climate action is implemented. “An informed public makes neglect visible. It closes the exits for evasion. And it makes bad decisions politically untenable,” he said. “Journalism does not govern, but it performs something just as essential. It makes it harder to govern badly.” Borje noted that the stories produced under the project demonstrate how sustained, contextualized reporting can shape public discourse beyond moments of crisis. “By sustaining attention beyond the moment of disaster, by tracing impact back to cause, and by insisting on context where convenience would prefer silence, the press helps determine whether climate change becomes a series of isolated crises or a turning point toward foresight, responsibility, and justice,” he said. He added that as the government advances national climate frameworks such as the National Adaptation Plan and the Local Climate Change Action Plans, responsible journalism becomes an essential partner in ensuring that policies are understood, scrutinized, and meaningfully implemented. The CCC reaffirmed its support for initiatives that strengthen the capacity of journalists and government communicators, recognizing media as a key actor in advancing climate literacy, public engagement, and accountability. “In the end, strong and climate-resilient democracies are not sustained by individual political personalities, but by institutions, and by responsible journalism—that make it harder for power to forget whom it serves, and what the nation’s future demands,” Borje said. The Terra Asia wrap-up seminar gathered journalists from the Philippine Broadcasting Service–Bureau of Broadcast Services (PBS-BBS), the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), development partners, and institutional stakeholders to reflect on the outputs of the year-long training program and the future of environmental journalism in the Philippines. Aligned with its mandate as the government’s lead climate policy-making body, the CCC reiterated its commitment to working with the media, development partners, and institutions to advance climate-resilient governance and a more climate-aware Philippines.

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. 

The Climate Change Commission (CCC), led by Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje, met with Sarangani provincial officials headed by Provincial Administrator Atty. Ryan Jay R. Ramos to exchange best practices and reinforce coordinated climate resilience efforts at the local level. Province of Sarangani – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) visited the Province of Sarangani to further strengthen collaboration on climate adaptation efforts and reinforce the alignment of the province’s advanced local initiatives with national priorities for community resilience, ecosystem protection, and climate risk reduction. Based on the National Adaptation Plan (NAP), Sarangani is classified as having medium to low exposure to climate hazards— this reflects the province’s proactive governance, strong environmental stewardship, and sustained investments in adaptation that have helped reduce vulnerability.  Local officials and communities noted the increasing occurrence of flash floods and periods of extreme heat, highlighting that climate change continues to present evolving challenges even in areas with robust adaptation measures. CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje emphasized that climate adaptation must go beyond hazard rankings and be grounded in the lived experiences of communities and the strength of local systems responding to climate impacts. “Sarangani is home to critical biodiversity areas, productive agroforestry systems, and vital watersheds that support food security, livelihoods, and protection against climate risks”.  “The province’s efforts to safeguard these natural assets demonstrate leadership in resilience-building. Protecting ecosystems is not optional—it is central to adaptation. When nature is strengthened, communities are better protected,” Borje added. During discussions with the CCC, Provincial Administrator Atty. Ryan Jay R. Ramos, representing Governor Rogelio D. Pacquiao of Sarangani Province, highlighted Sarangani’s comprehensive and forward-looking adaptation initiatives. These include floodwater management infrastructure, nature-based solutions, ridge-to-reef approaches, and a province-wide tree-growing program with a target of planting one million trees by the end of 2028. These initiatives underscore the province’s commitment to integrating climate adaptation into long-term development planning, ensuring that resilience-building supports economic growth, environmental sustainability, and community well-being. Borje also presented the NAP as a framework for further strengthening Sarangani’s climate policies and programs, emphasizing the importance of science-driven and evidence-based decision-making to sustain and scale existing efforts. “All adaptation actions must be anchored on science and evidence. The NAP serves as a framework to help local governments like Sarangani enhance already established initiatives, translate climate risks into sound policies, and guide investments toward solutions that deliver real and lasting benefits for communities,” Borje said. The National Adaptation Plan was developed under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. as a key national framework advancing his vision of a climate-smart and climate-resilient Philippines. The CCC highlighted that aligning infrastructure development, ecosystem protection, and local planning under the NAP framework enables provinces to address emerging climate risks while reinforcing gains already achieved in resilience. The engagement reaffirmed the critical role of local governments as leaders in climate adaptation, with Sarangani serving as an example of how locally driven, science-based actions—aligned with national frameworks—can build resilient communities and protect vital ecosystems. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.

The Climate Change Commission joins Sultan Kudarat State University in its 16th University Day and Academic Recognition Day, celebrating excellence in education and leadership for a climate-resilient future. ISULAN, Sultan Kudarat — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) emphasized the vital role of the youth as future climate leaders and partners in building resilient communities during the Academic Recognition and 16th University Day of Sultan Kudarat State University (SKSU). CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E. A. Borje underscored that, while Sultan Kudarat is categorized under medium to low exposure to climate hazards based on the National Adaptation Plan (NAP), the province continues to experience intense heat and flooding, which directly affect communities and livelihoods. “When floods hit Lambayong, Lutayan, and Palimbang, it is not statistics that suffer—it is families. When drought affects Esperanza and Isulan, it is not reports that go hungry—it is the farmers,” Borje said. Borje stressed that climate change is no longer a distant or theoretical issue, but a lived reality for Mindanao communities—making education and youth participation critical to the country’s climate response. With more than 15,000 students across seven campuses, SKSU was recognized as a strategic center of talent whose academic excellence can translate into meaningful climate action at the local level. Borje encouraged students to become proactive contributors and problem-solvers, emphasizing that knowledge must lead to service. “Ang talino ninyo ang magiging panangga ng bayan. Ang kaalaman ninyo ang magiging sandigan ng lalawigan. At ang puso ninyo ang magiging lakas ng Republika.” This also highlights the role of state colleges and universities and higher education institutions in implementing the National Adaptation Plan, noting that adaptation efforts are built not only in policy spaces, but in classrooms, laboratories, farms, and communities. Borje encouraged SKSU to further strengthen its role as a technical partner of local government units in developing climate-resilient solutions. SKSU offers a wide range of academic programs aligned with the development priorities of the province, including agriculture, engineering, information technology, education, and health sciences. Its growing academic excellence is reflected in the recent achievement of three SKSU graduates who topped the licensure examinations for nursing, education, and engineering—underscoring the university’s impact in producing professionals vital to local development and resilience-building. The event marked SKSU’s 16th University Day and recognized students who demonstrated academic excellence, perseverance, and commitment to service. Present during the celebration were Governor Datu Pax Ali Mangudadatu, SKSU President Dr. Samson L. Mooa, Prof. Masrullizam Bin Mat Ibrahim, representative of Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka, along with university officials, faculty members, and students. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.

CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje delivers the keynote address at the 1st Manila Water Sustainability Leadership Talk in Quezon City, emphasizing the role of water utilities in aligning operations with the national plans to strengthen climate resilience. Quezon City – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) underscored the urgency of aligning the business strategies and investments of essential services, including water service providers, with the country’s national climate commitments during the 1st Manila Water Sustainability Leadership Talk in Quezon City. In his keynote address, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje highlighted that for a water-stressed and disaster-prone archipelago, climate risk is systemic and must be managed in coherence with sectoral agencies and private operators while engaging the communities who are also active agents of resilience.  “Climate action does not succeed on policy alone. Nor does it succeed on infrastructure alone. It succeeds when institutions, communities, and individual Filipinos move together,” Borje said.  Moreover, he highlighted the central role of water utilities in strengthening climate resilience, noting that climate impacts directly affect water availability, infrastructure integrity, and service continuity, making climate action a governance and operational priority. “The role of water utilities is fundamental. We must ensure water security despite a changing climate, by climate-proofing infrastructure, diversifying water sources, and integrating nature-based solutions for watershed management,” Borje said. Highlighting the policies under the guidance of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Borje underscored the Philippines’ Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) and National Adaptation Plan (NAP) as the country’s core frameworks for addressing climate risks and advancing sustainable development. He emphasized that water utility companies contribute to national mitigation targets through improved wastewater treatment, energy efficiency, and low-carbon operations, while also advancing adaptation through risk-informed planning and resilient infrastructure. “This is where the idea of bridging sustainability and resilience becomes concrete,” Borje said. “When your sustainability strategies align with our NDC and our NAP, you are doing more than complying with policy. You are translating national commitments into daily realities for millions of Filipinos.” Affirming this view, Manila Water President and CEO Roberto Locsin underscored that providing service for sustainable solutions means more than just delivering the basic needs. “Every task we perform, every decision we make, can be transformed into direct climate action. This is the power of our work. It goes beyond operations, it shapes resilience for generations to come,” Locsin noted. The Sustainability Leadership Talk is Manila Water’s platform for engaging leaders from government, academe, and industry peers on sustainability and resilience. Its inaugural session, with the theme “Bridging Sustainability and Resilience for a Climate-Smart Future,” focused on climate action, public-private partnerships, and embedding resilience into organizational planning and operations. The CCC actively engages with the private sector as a core part of its mainstreaming strategy, recognizing business as a crucial partner in achieving national climate resilience. The agency leverages relevant pathways, such as bilateral partnerships and its system of contact groups, to sustain collaboration as a loop of action and ambition. Aligned with the national climate agenda and the country’s commitments under the Paris Agreement, the CCC reaffirmed its commitment to working with the private sector and other stakeholders to advance climate-resilient development and safeguard essential services amid a changing climate. 

The Climate Change Commission (CCC) convenes national government agencies (NGAs) to assess, ensure, and align their climate action plans with the National Adaptation Plan.   MANILA –The Climate Change Commission (CCC) convened national government agencies (NGAs) in a two-day Stocktaking Workshop for Climate Programs and Indicators to strengthen and harmonize their climate action plans with the National Adaptation Plan (NAP). The workshop served as a platform for National Government Agencies (NGAs) to assess existing climate programs, identify gaps, and align sectoral priorities with the NAP, the country’s long-term, science-based, and evidence-based framework that aims to reduce climate-related loss and damage while building adaptive capacity toward transformative resilience and sustainable economic development by 2050. Developed under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the NAP reflects the administration’s vision of a climate-smart and climate-resilient Philippines, ensuring that adaptation efforts are integrated across policies, programs, and public investments. CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje underscored the importance of the NAP as a practical and responsive framework for addressing climate risks. “The National Adaptation Plan is more than a policy document—it is our shared blueprint for how the government responds to climate risks in a systematic, coordinated, and accountable manner,” Borje said. The workshop was organized into breakout sessions covering key adaptation sectors, including Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food Security; Water Resources; Health; Ecosystems and Biodiversity; Cultural Heritage; Population Displacement and Migration; Land Use and Human Settlements; Energy, Transport, and Communications; and Livelihoods and Industries. These discussions enabled agencies to exchange best practices, surface operational challenges, and identify opportunities to strengthen sectoral adaptation actions consistent with national priorities. Borje emphasized that climate resilience requires sustained collaboration and shared accountability across government institutions. “Building climate resilience is both a technical endeavor and a governance responsibility. It requires sound science and robust indicators, but it also requires leadership, collaboration, and a shared sense of purpose.” “As public servants, we are not merely reporting progress—we are shaping how the government protects lives, livelihoods, and development gains in the face of a changing climate,” Borje added. The workshop brought together various NGAs, including the Department of Agriculture–Climate Resilient Agriculture Office, Department of Science and Technology–Industrial Technology Development Institute, Department of Transportation, and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, reaffirming a whole-of-government approach to advancing climate adaptation under the NAP. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.

CCC joins Cotabato State University (CotSU) College of Forestry representatives in planting Malugay (Pometia pinnata) seedlings, a native Philippine hardwood tree, as part of a collaborative greening and resilience-building activity on campus. MANILA, 26 December 2025 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) visited key state universities and colleges (SUCs) in Mindanao to strengthen collaboration in localizing climate resilience efforts and empowering communities as climate champions. The CCC recently met with officials from the Sultan Kudarat State University (SKSU) and Cotabato State University (CotSU) to advance convergence on climate adaptation, research, and capacity building. In a meeting with SKSU President Dr. Samson L. Molao and his team, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje discussed leveraging the university’s critical role as an academic and research hub to build local climate capacities. The dialogue emphasized SKSU’s potential in driving evidence-based climate action in the region, with sustained support from Senator Loren Legarda, a long-time advocate for empowering SUCs. "The CCC will continue to engage stakeholders in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision of a climate resilient Philippines. We are turning communities into champions for climate,"  said Borje. Separately, Borje met with CotSU President Dr. Sema G. Dilna and team, focusing on mobilizing SUCs to localize the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) and build capacities for transformative climate action. Developed under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the NAP aims to steadily reduce climate-related loss and damage and to build the country’s adaptive capacity toward transformative resilience and sustainable economic development by 2050. The NAP serves as a national instrument for pursuing efforts at all levels of governance to address climate risk and reduce the country's vulnerability to climate change impacts by bolstering adaptive capacity, fostering resilience, and integrating adaptation into relevant policies and programs. It specifically identifies SUCs as supporting agencies in several key adaptation strategies, recognizing their critical role in translating national policy into local, on-the-ground action. For the health sector, SUCs support the reinforcement of primary care and community health workers, aimed at minimizing patient mortality from climate-sensitive diseases. They also contribute to the development of resilient health networks, which ensures seamless access to climate-responsive health services. In the area of ecosystems and biodiversity, SUCs are positioned to support the protection and rehabilitation of biodiversity across habitats and ecosystems, as well as enabling and empowering communities to lead ecological management. This includes helping establish collaborative research partnerships between local communities, researchers, and environmental organizations to provide access to scientific expertise, enabling ecological assessment and better-informed decisions at a local level to improve the resiliency of ecosystems. The engagement at CotSU also included a symbolic tree-planting activity at the university’s College of Forestry. Together, CCC and CotSU officials planted Malugay (Pometia pinnata) seedlings—a native, fruit-bearing hardwood tree valued for its strength and ecological benefits. "Every tree planted and grown is a step towards renewing its value for our communities," Borje stated. "We thank the CotSU College of Forestry for choosing this species and for working with us to ensure these trees—and our partnership—grow strong." These back-to-back engagements underscore the CCC’s strategy to harness the unique position of SUCs as centers of innovation, education, and community extension to mainstream climate action at the local level. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.

PAETE, LAGUNA | 26 December 2025 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) in coordination with the local government of Paete, Laguna and with support from the Ayala Foundation, conducted its 2nd Community Outreach Program on 19 December 2025 at the New Agarao Covered Court in Paete, Laguna. A part of the CCC’s annual community engagement initiatives, this program was organized to provide assistance to the residents of Paete who were severely affected by recent typhoons. Through the activity, 200 families received Christmas baskets, while 63 children were given kiddie meals and goodie bags, reinforcing shared efforts to extend relief, strengthen community solidarity, and support recovery in climate-vulnerable communities. Paete, a fourth-class municipality, relies heavily on agriculture for livelihoods, making it particularly vulnerable to climate hazards. "Layunin ng Climate Change Commission na magbigay ng kaalaman, kagamitan, at suporta upang tulungan kayong makabangon at maging mas handa sa mga darating pang pagsubok," said CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje through Deputy Executive Director Romell Antonio Cuenca. “Napakalaking tulong ng mga programa ng Climate Change Commission at higit pa rito ay ang kanilang patuloy na suporta sa mga proyekto ng Laguna katulad ng renewable energy. Ang outreach program na ito, sa tulong din ng Ayala Foundation, ay malaking biyaya para sa mga farmers,” said Mayor Ronald Cosico of Paete, Laguna, thanking the CCC for conducting its outreach program in Paete for two consecutive years. Correspondingly, Cenen Milan Jr., Lead of Corporate Citizenship and Volunteerism Program of Ayala Foundation, conveyed their message of support for the same program and for the CCC for its activities. “Masaya po kaming makabalik sa Paete, Laguna at sa pagkakataong ito ay para mamahagi ng tulong. Para naman sa Climate Change Commission, bilang patunay nga po ng partnerships ay aming susuportahan ang mga susunod na proyekto lalo na po ang nasa aming community development areas,” Milan expressed. As the CCC strengthens its efforts to combat climate change and strengthen adaptation measures, it continues to focus on helping vulnerable communities, ensuring no one is left behind in the journey toward a climate-resilient future. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.

Photographs featuring the country’s development challenges and opportunities are showcased in the three-day photo exhibit titled “The Clock is Ticking: SDG Action Now.” MANILA — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) joined the House of Representatives Committee on Sustainable Development Goals in the opening of the three-day photo exhibit “The Clock is Ticking: SDG Action Now,” wherein SDGs are emphasized as central to the country’s national development agenda.  In his message, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje underscored that SDGs, particularly SDG 13 or Climate Action, highlight how the country’s resilience depends on decisively addressing development gaps that continue to place communities at risk.  He noted that climate action is not limited to SDG 13. It also serves as a powerful enabler of progress across the 2030 Agenda, supporting efforts to reduce poverty and hunger, ensure water security, protect ecosystems, and strengthen resilient infrastructure and sustainable cities—key themes featured in the exhibit. Rep. Jose Manuel Alba, Chair of the Committee on SDGs, likewise underscored that SDGs must be treated as concrete commitments rather than abstract aspirations. He emphasized the need to translate targets into clear timelines, adequate budgets, and accountable measures as the country enters the final stretch toward 2030. “The SDGs are not meant to be aspirational goals; they were meant to be commitments to timelines, budgets, and consequences,” Alba said. The photo exhibit features images that aim to go beyond depicting adaptation and mitigation efforts, illustrating instead the “Filipino qualities of discipline, cooperation, and resolve” in responding to climate and development challenges. ”Together, we must renew and reaffirm the commitment and resolve to advance climate action that is science-based, equitable, and grounded in the realities of daily life across our provinces and cities,” Borje added. Speaking on the need to enhance the country’s climate resilience, he emphasized that policies such as the Philippine Development Plan, the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), and the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) are the country’s foundations for low-carbon, climate-resilient growth. “These are not merely policy documents, they are guides for more coherent systems, better governance, and stronger protection for our people.” Borje also highlighted the pivotal role of the legislature in the final push toward 2030, stressing that the remaining four years require decisive, coordinated, and forward-looking action. “Time is indeed ticking. But we are not bound by the clock. When we act together, urgency becomes momentum. And momentum can lead to lasting transformation.” The photo exhibit can be viewed in the North Wing Lobby, House of Representatives, Quezon City from December 9 to 11, 2025. The CCC reaffirmed its commitment to deepen collaboration with local governments, national agencies, civil society, the private sector, communities, and Congress to advance climate action that is science-based, equitable, and responsive to the realities on the ground. Through these efforts, the Commission aims to strengthen resilience, safeguard development gains, and build a sustainable future for all Filipinos.

Officials and representatives from the CCC, DILG-LGA, CHED, and PASUC sign a commitment to action to more effectively implement the NAP at the local level. MANILA, 12 December 2025 — In a historic step toward accelerating on-the-ground climate action, the higher education sector, local government units, and key government agencies formalized a collective pledge to support the localization of the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) 2023-2050. A “Commitment to Action” was signed by officials and representatives from the Climate Change Commission (CCC), Department of the Interior and Local Government - Local Government Academy (DILG-LGA), the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and the Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges (PASUC). This pledge aims to strengthen collaboration among State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), Local Government Units (LGUs), and National Government Agencies (NGAs) to more effectively implement the NAP at the local level. This is the country's primary strategy for building resilience and reducing vulnerability to the impacts of climate change. Under the pledge, academic institutions committed to fully harness the potential of SUCs as centers of local knowledge, technology, and innovation, to provide LGUs with science-based data and tools for context-specific adaptation solutions. The agencies and SUCs further pledged to work together to train and support local governments in conducting climate risk assessments, managing greenhouse gas inventories, and mainstreaming the NAP into their local development and land use plans. “Through knowledge sharing and collaboration, we can help nurture future world-class climate leaders, actors, and even future IPCC authors—individuals equipped to drive solutions at every level,” said Senator Loren Legarda. As support from national agencies, the CCC, DILG-LGA, and CHED committed to assisting both SUCs and LGUs in formulating and implementing effective Local Climate Change Action Plans (LCCAPs), and to ensure that projects and programs are evidence-based and risk-informed. The Commitment to Action was signed during the Knowledge Exchange Forum, which was attended by presidents of SUCs and representatives from national agencies. The Forum, with the theme “From Knowledge to Action: Championing the Role of the State Universities and Colleges for Accelerated Climate Action,” highlighted the critical role of state universities and colleges as “local knowledge hubs” that will link science, policy, and on-the-ground action. Through their research, training, and extension services, they will serve as partners of local governments in shaping climate solutions based on indigenous knowledge and community needs. Coinciding with the signing, a formal coordination platform was also launched to enable more systematic linkages among LGUs, leagues of local officials, SUCs, and Regional Development Councils (RDCs) for faster local NAP implementation. “This signing is a clear and firm signal of our collective dedication to lay down the necessary foundations so that every community in the Philippines becomes prepared and resilient to a changing climate,” stated CCC Vice Chair and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje. “By linking the knowledge of our universities with the actions of our local governments, we will undoubtedly accelerate the achievement of a climate-resilient future for all Filipinos.” The Knowledge Exchange Forum is part of the celebration of the 18th Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness Week in accordance with Presidential Proclamation No. 1667, s. 2008. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.

(Photo courtesy of OneSports.PH) Professional volleyball player and climate advocate Bryan Bagunas proudly carried the Philippine flag at the opening ceremony of the 32nd Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games), alongside tennis star Alex Eala, at the Rajamangala National Stadium in Bangkok. More than a ceremonial honor, Bagunas’ role as flag bearer represents a broader victory for the Philippines—one where athletic excellence converges with purpose-driven advocacy. A committed climate advocate, Bagunas is one of the Filipino athletes who are using their platforms to advance the intersection of sports and climate action, while promoting sustainability within sporting communities.                               By leading the Philippine delegation, Bagunas embodies resilience, discipline, and collective responsibility—values that echo the country’s continuing push for climate action and sustainable development. His presence on the international stage sends a powerful message: Filipino athletes can be champions not only in competition, but also in advancing causes that protect people, communities, and the future. Reflecting on his journey, Bagunas underscored the growing impact of hosting and participating in international tournaments in the Philippines. “Actually, sobrang naging malaking impact yung pagdadala ng mga international tournaments sa ating [bansang] Pilipinas,” he shared. “Siyempre, nagpapasalamat tayo sa PNVF at sa lahat ng sumusuporta sa Philippine volleyball. Kung hindi dahil sa kanila, hindi tayo mapapansin.” Bagunas began his volleyball career with the National University (NU) Bulldogs, leading the team to back-to-back championships in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Men’s Volleyball League in Seasons 80 and 81. He was named Finals Most Valuable Player in both seasons, earned the Best Server award three consecutive times from Seasons 79 to 81, and capped off his UAAP stint in Season 81 as Season MVP. Beyond the collegiate stage, Bagunas made his mark in the regional arena as a key member of the Philippine Men’s Volleyball Team, contributing to the country’s historic silver medal finish at the SEA Games 2019—its first podium finish since 2005. His performance drew international attention, leading to a stint with Oita Miyoshi Weisse Adler in Japan in mid-2019. In August 2022, he joined Taichung Win Streak, where he earned the Most Valuable Player award in Taiwan’s Top Volleyball League (TVL) Season 2022–2023 as an outside hitter. Beyond volleyball, the 6-foot-5 outside hitter has emerged as a passionate advocate for climate action. Having witnessed firsthand the devastating impacts of typhoons across the Philippines, Bagunas continues to highlight the urgent need to address improper waste management and strengthen climate resilience in communities—anchoring his advocacy as a climate champion in the making. The Climate Change Commission (CCC) stands with Filipino athletes like Bryan Bagunas, whose moments on the global stage demonstrate how sports can amplify climate awareness, inspire collective action, and rally Filipinos toward a more sustainable and climate-resilient future.

Climate leaders, partners, and advocates gather at the 2025 Solidarity Night to celebrate the culmination of the Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness Week.   MANILA, 5 December 2025 — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to decisive climate action in his message during the 2025 Solidarity Night, the culminating activity of the 18th Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness Week (CCC Week). Hosted by the Climate Change Commission (CCC), the event showcased the country’s progress on the Nationally Determined Contribution Implementation Plan (NDCIP) and emphasized a whole-of-nation approach to climate action. “Let us uphold climate governance, protecting the beauty and bounty of our land, while seeking effective ways to ensure the welfare of generations to come,” Pres. Marcos said. “Together, let us nurture a nation that leads with foresight and thrives with purpose—one that is resilient, future-ready, and responsive to the needs of both people and the planet.” Highlighting resilience, the President pointed to ongoing initiatives under the National Adaptation Plan, the NDCIP, and efforts in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and climate finance as foundations for a future “that leaves no Filipino behind.” Department of Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla, the Official Representative of the President to the CCC, emphasized that building resilience goes beyond policies and programs. “It requires compassion, commitment, and collaboration. It means supporting local innovations, empowering communities, and transforming development pathways into ones that are sustainable, inclusive, and just.” CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje highlighted the event’s unifying spirit. “Let this be our continuing challenge: to work for the last, the least, the lost, and the most vulnerable. In doing so, we can become the change our country and the world need,” he said. Borje stressed that partnership remains central to the Philippines’ climate agenda, as embodied in the Active Climate Change Engagement Leading to Resilient, Adaptive and Transformative Empowerment (ACCELERATE) Framework, which drives inclusive, participatory, and whole-of-nation climate governance. Speakers from various sectors shared their contributions. ACEN President and CEO Eric Francia highlighted the urgency of measurable mitigation amid rapid growth. “The Philippines is growing quickly, industries are expanding, and power demand is rising, yet we remain one of the most climate-vulnerable nations. As we grow, we need to make sure we are also cutting emissions in a real and measurable way. That’s the heart of mitigation, and this is why the Philippines’ NDC does matter.” Tebtebba Executive Director Helen Biangalen-Magata stressed the importance of supporting Indigenous Peoples. “Indigenous Peoples are among the most vulnerable,facing land dispossession, loss of cultural heritage, and threats to their very way of life. By embracing and supporting Indigenous knowledge and rights, we not only honor their contributions but also strengthen our own capacity to adapt and thrive.” Mayor Alfredo Coro II of Del Carmen, Siargao emphasized empowering local governments: “Most actions and impacts are managed and governed by LGUs. If we all work for local climate solutions, then all local climate solutions will benefit us all.” From the private sector, PLDT and SMART Chief Sustainability Officer Melissa Vergel De Dios highlighted the importance of resilient digital infrastructure. “We recognize our key role in empowering businesses and connecting Filipinos, especially in remote and isolated areas. We aim to minimize network downtime by fortifying our systems, taking into account climate change, changing weather patterns, and extreme climate.” UN Women Philippines Ambassador Vanessa Vianca S. Pallarco-Yu stressed gender-responsive climate action. “With the Belém Gender Action Plan now in force, we have an even stronger time-bound global mandate to scale these efforts. When climate action is gender-responsive, it becomes more just, more inclusive, and more effective.” Food and Agriculture Organization Philippines Representative Lionel Dabbadie emphasized that transformation happens where ambition meets implementation. “Ambition without implementation leads to frustration, but implementation without ambition leads to stagnation. Transformation happens where ambition meets implementation—it is urgent, it is lived, and it is real.” Started in 2024, Solidarity Night was established to highlight the thematic strategies of the National Adaptation Plan 2023–2050. The 2025 edition focused on mitigation and the NDCIP, underscoring the country’s resolve to advance from planning to full-scale implementation of long-term climate objectives. Guests concluded the event by signing a collaborative artwork made from various indigenous fabrics, symbolizing their commitment to climate action, unity, cultural preservation, and shared responsibility for a whole-of-nation climate effort. The event reaffirmed the CCC’s belief that climate leadership is a shared responsibility, strengthened by partnership, grounded in evidence, and driven by collective resolve. The country can meet its climate goals only through collaboration among government, communities, development partners, the private sector, academe, and civil society, working together to create a low-carbon, climate-resilient, and sustainable future for all Filipinos.

The Climate Change Commission joined the 103rd National Assembly of the League of Vice Governors of the Philippines to emphasize the crucial role of Vice Governors in risk governance. MANILA – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) highlighted the critical role of Vice Governors in strengthening risk governance and building climate-resilient communities during the 103rd National Assembly of the League of Vice Governors of the Philippines (LVGP) Year-End National Assembly. Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje emphasized that Vice Governors occupy “the critical intersection where plans meet priorities, where evidence meets action, and where strategy becomes alignment across the entire province.” He said this strategic position enables Vice Governors to lead efforts that protect lives, sustain livelihoods, and secure the future of their provinces. Borje linked this leadership role to national policy frameworks, particularly the National Adaptation Plan (NAP), which guides communities in identifying locally appropriate adaptation practices and projects based on specific vulnerabilities. The NAP, developed under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., reflects the administration’s vision and plan of action for a climate-smart and climate-resilient Philippines. “These insights allow Vice Governors to understand—not vaguely, but precisely—what hazards your provinces face and how those hazards intersect with population, livelihoods, and infrastructure,” he said. He stressed that Local Climate Change Action Plans (LCCAPs) must be anchored in the NAP to ensure provincial strategies are science-driven, evidence-based, and aligned with national priorities. Such alignment strengthens risk governance by making adaptation actions responsive, measurable, and sustainable. Borje also highlighted the People’s Survival Fund (PSF) as a key financing mechanism for local adaptation initiatives. From 2023 to 2025, the PSF Board significantly accelerated the approval of projects and Project Development Grants, resulting in a sharp increase in fund utilization from just over 30 percent to near full commitment. By May 2024, the initial Php 1 billion allocation had been fully committed and exceeded by Php 321.6 million. To sustain this expanded pipeline, an additional Php 1 billion was appropriated under the 2025 GAA, bringing the portfolio to 15 projects and 9 PDGs with a total value of approximately Php 1.4 billion. “These developments make the PSF a more accessible and reliable financing option, helping local governments secure funds to strengthen climate resilience in their communities,” he said. However, Borje acknowledged that there continues to be room for growth and development in the PSF application process. He underscored the CCC’s commitment to sustain joint efforts with the PSF Board Chair and Secretariat Department of Finance and PSF Board members to explore ways of further improving and strengthening application and implementation support mechanisms for LGUs. While urging Vice Governors to continue championing resilience and good governance, Borje also noted the importance of a whole of government and whole of society approaches to help ensure that government processes and systems remain responsive to the needs of and lead to more robust sustainable development and climate resilience. The LVGP, a national organization composed of Vice Governors from across the country, provides a platform for members to share experiences, discuss common challenges, coordinate policies, and exchange best practices to strengthen governance at the provincial level. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.

The Climate Change Commission, led by Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje, convened the agreement signing for the 2026 cohort scholars in the Sustainable Leadership Learning on Climate and Disaster Risk Reduction program.   MANILA – The Climate Change Commission (CCC), in support of the Office of Senator Loren Legarda, continues its partnership with the Asian Institute of Management (AIM) to strengthen the capacity of climate leaders through the Sustainable Leadership Learning on Climate and Disaster Risk Reduction (SLL-CDRR) Scholarship Program. A signing ceremony was recently held for the new cohort of scholars, marking more than a formal agreement. “Today, you accepted a profound responsibility. You are now the designated champions within your respective agencies. The knowledge and skills you will acquire are not for your benefit alone; they are a trust granted to you by the Filipino people,” said Robert E.A. Borje, Vice Chairperson and Executive Director of the CCC. Supporting this message, Professor Erin L. Downey, Head of the Stephen Zuellig Graduate School of Development Management at AIM, emphasized, “This is far more than just paperwork. It is a commitment to your country and to the generations to follow. We look forward to witnessing the impact you will make. Let the work begin.” This marks the second year of the SLL-CDRR Program, which now welcomes the 2026 cohort. A total of 28 scholars were accepted, divided into two tracks: the Executive Masters in Disaster Risk and Crisis Management (EMDRCM) and the Master of Science in Data Science (MSDS). Under the EMDRCM program, 24 scholars will undertake an 18-month program focusing on management approaches to disasters and crises in the Asian region. The curriculum includes analytical methods, operational tools, and strategic systems that guide leaders in disaster risk and crisis management across different contexts and scales. Meanwhile, four scholars will pursue the 15-month MSDS program, deepening their expertise in data science and its role in formulating data-driven strategies to address real-world challenges, including those related to climate change and disaster risks. The scholars are expected to specialize in climate change adaptation and mitigation (CCAM) and disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM), producing academic outputs aligned with the CCC’s policy priorities. The program’s first batch, which started last year, is set to graduate in the coming days, further showcasing the program’s continued success in developing capable climate and disaster resilience leaders. Meanwhile, Borje extended his warmest congratulations to the 2025 cohort, noting that they are true agents of change whose leadership will shape programs and policies addressing climate and disaster risks nationwide. The SLL-CDRR scholars come from national government agencies with mandates related to climate change and disaster risk reduction. Their participation strengthens the government capacity to plan, implement, and scale policies and programs that address climate and disaster risks. The students undergo a rigorous selection process that includes evaluation of their climate-related work, aptitude tests, and interviews. In line with this, the selection of scholars ensures gender balance, with 50 percent of slots specifically allocated for women. Furthermore, the scholars come from a wide range of regions, including CAR, Regions II, III, IV, IV-A, VI, VII, VIII, IX, XI, XII, XIII, and NCR, ensuring diverse geographic representation across the country. Through the SLL-CDRR Program, the government aims to build strategic human capital in pursuit of its mandates on climate change adaptation and mitigation and disaster risk reduction and management, contributing to a Philippines that is more resilient, adaptive, and sustainable. The CCC extends its deepest gratitude to Senator Legarda for her continued support in nurturing climate leaders and strengthening their capacity to build a more climate-resilient Philippines. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.

Participants from national government agencies, private sector, civil society organizations, academe and development partners convened in “Philippines NDC 2025: Raising Ambition Towards a Climate-Resilient Future” held on 03 December 2025 in Mandaluyong City. MANILA, Philippines | 3 December 2025 — As the Philippines continues preparations for its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) 2025 submission, the Climate Change Commission (CCC) engaged key partners in a stakeholder consultation to strengthen the country’s efforts to update the NDC based on evolving priorities and national circumstances. The consultation activity focused on presenting the indicative NDC 2025 overall and sectoral commitments, ensuring that these reflect national development priorities and stakeholder concerns. The Official Representative of the President to the CCC, Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) underscored the importance of recalibrating from the business-as-usual scenario to reflect the current economic realities and sectoral growth and improved emissions data. This recalibration, he noted, is crucial to strengthen accuracy, transparency and integrity. “To deliver on the NDC, we continue to fortify our monitoring, reporting and verification systems so that we can measure progress, identify gaps and refine policies as needed.” CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje emphasized that this part of the updating process scales up climate action and lays out a clear and ambitious pathway across all sectors that is anchored on transparency and broad ownership. “By linking our natural ecosystems with energy, transport, industry and agriculture, we are not just setting targets on paper, we are creating a roadmap that turns ambition into action that builds a resilient, low-carbon and inclusive future,” Borje said. Sectoral agencies—DENR, Department of Energy, Department of Transportation, and Department of Agriculture—presented their respective mitigation pathways, including finalized policies and measures (PAMS), mitigation potentials, and sectoral targets covering energy, transport, agriculture, forestry and land use (FOLU), waste, and industrial processes and product use (IPPU). These presentations underscored significant opportunities for emissions reduction and resilience-building, while also outlining challenges that require strengthened cooperation among national and local governments, the private sector, and development partners. In the afternoon breakout sessions, participants from government, civil society, academe, LGUs, and development partners engaged in open dialogues to provide detailed inputs on sectoral commitments. Discussions focused on ensuring that NDC targets are actionable, achievable, and aligned with local realities—particularly on just transition pathways, financing needs, capacity building, and monitoring and reporting mechanisms. Key messages from the breakout groups highlighted the need to accelerate renewable energy deployment, strengthen sustainable transport systems, protect natural ecosystems, ensure food security, scale up nature-based solutions, enhance waste management systems, and increase support for local governments who serve as frontliners in climate action. The CCC noted that insights gathered through the engagement will feed into the finalization of the NDC 2025, ensuring that the document not only raises ambition but also reflects a unified national effort to contribute to the global 1.5°C goal. These efforts aim to not only perform the whole-of-government approach alone, but also to highlight that the NDC pursues an economy-wide and whole-of-society approach to ensure legitimacy, broad ownership, and collective resolve needed to turn commitments into real and lasting outcomes.

Women and Youth Awardees of the Philippine Resilience Awards 2025 held at the Philippine Normal University as part of the 18th Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness Week. MANILA – The Philippine Resilience Awards (PRA) honored three women and five young climate champions whose initiatives are strengthening resilience in their communities. The ceremony was held at the Philippine Normal University in Manila as part of the 18th Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness Week (CCC Week). Nominees underwent rigorous assessment and field validation conducted by experts from partner institutions. The evaluation focused on how each initiative reduces vulnerability, strengthens local capacities, and advances innovation in climate and disaster resilience. From this process, exemplary awardees emerged in both the Women and Youth categories. In the Women’s Category, Undersecretary Diana Rose S. Cajipe of the Department of Social Welfare and Development was recognized for the  Buong Bansa Handa Program, a supply chain model that enhances operational readiness in relief delivery. Jenelyn J. Salimbagat of the National University received recognition for the Family Emergency and Disaster Preparedness Plan (FEDPP), a household-based program that equips individuals—especially youth—with practical preparedness skills. Renebelita F. Fuentebella, Co-Founder and Vice Chair of Damit Dignidad Pilipinas, was recognized for leading the collection and distribution of pre-loved clothing and essential personal items for humanitarian response. Five young climate champions were recognized in the Youth Category: Raymart S. Garcia of Barangay Commonwealth, Quezon City, was awarded for the Reskyusi Food Basket Program, which addresses malnutrition and food wastage through sustainable food systems. Val Amiel Vestil from the Association of Young Environmental Journalists was honored for Kwentong Kalikasan, a storytelling initiative that builds ecological awareness and climate resilience. Shri Tahanie B. Macaumbao of the National Youth Council received recognition for Green by Design, which promotes waste reduction and water sustainability in communities around Lake Lanao. Engr. Christian B. Hernandez of Mindanao State University was recognized for Project MOSES, an Internet of Things (IoT) - based weather monitoring system that addresses gaps in localized, real-time weather data in Oriental Mindoro. Peter John C. Enorio of Cebu Technological University was honored for the Subang Environmental Initiatives, which restore degraded lands and empower communities through nature-based adaptation solutions. Now in its third year, and anchored on the theme “Kababaihan at Kabataan: Katuwang sa Paghahabi ng Isang Matatag na Bayan,” the PRA highlighted the essential role of women and young leaders in advancing a climate-resilient Philippines. Senator Loren Legarda described the awardees as changemakers redefining resilience leadership. “Resilience cannot be achieved without women and youth at the center. They are not victims to be saved; they are leaders, innovators, and torchbearers,” she said. Meanwhile, Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje of the Climate Change Commission (CCC) emphasized the importance of recognizing local climate champions. “By recognizing these leaders, we are more than admiring resilience; we are actively investing in it. We are shifting our paradigm from resilience as recovery to resilience as protection and prevention,” he said. The event gathered institutional partners and members of the PRA network, including  Commissioner Rachel Anne S. Herrera of the Climate Change Commission; Mr. Silvestre Barrameda, Jr. as Executive Director of the National Resilience Council; Engr. Liza B. Silerio, Vice President of SM Prime and ARISE PH; Dr. Joseph Bacareza of ARISE PH; Commissioner Maria Jerika Larize E. Ejercito-Aguilar and Dr. Macario T. Jusayan of the Philippine Commission on Women; Assistant Secretary Gervy James Gumarit of the National Youth Commission; Assistant Secretary Lilian De Leon of the Department of the Interior and Local Government; and Mr. Antonio Emilio Tordesillas of WiNDRR Philippines. Members of the Field Validation Committee and Final Selection Board were also present. Initiated by Senator Legarda, the Philippine Resilience Awards is a multistakeholder program of the Climate Change Commission in collaboration with the Philippine Commission on Women, National Resilience Council, SM Prime, Women’s International Network on Disaster Risk Reduction, and ARISE Philippines. All awardees will receive continued support to expand and strengthen their resilience initiatives nationwide. For more inquiries, visit the PRA’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/PRAwards.PH.