Addressing increasingly interconnected climate risks. Participants from government agencies, development institutions, academia, local governments, civil society, and the private sector convened in technical consultation on the development of the Technology Needs Assessment (TNA) for the Philippines. QUEZON CITY — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) underscored that innovation and technological discussions, and institutional coordination, are crucial to advancing climate resilience and low-carbon development during the Technical Consultation on the Development of the Technology Needs Assessment (TNA) for the Philippines held in Quezon City. In his message, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje emphasized that climate governance today requires more integrated, anticipatory, and science-based approaches as climate risks increase across systems and sectors. “Risks do not simply occur one after another. They cascade across systems, compound existing vulnerabilities, and amplify development pressures. And in many cases, they arrive faster than institutions are able to recover from previous disruptions,” Borje said. During the consultation, technology was highlighted as a critical enabler of resilience, governance coherence, and sustainable development—affecting how communities survive. ”For developing countries like the Philippines, technology is not a peripheral issue in climate governance,” Borje said. “It affects agricultural productivity and food security, shapes energy transition pathways and industrial competitiveness, and strengthens forecasting systems, early warning capacities, infrastructure resilience, water security, disaster preparedness, and local adaptation planning,” he added. The TNA is anchored in Article 4.5 of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), which facilitates environmentally sound technologies for developing countries, and Article 10 of the Paris Agreement, which recognizes technology development and transfer as critical to improving resilience and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The TNA process helps countries identify and prioritize technologies aligned with national development and climate priorities. The Philippines completed its first TNA in 2018, which identified mitigation priorities in the energy, transport, and waste sectors. The ongoing TNA Phase V builds on these earlier efforts and supports the implementation of the country’s comprehensive, science‑based blueprints such as the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), National Adaptation Plan (NAP), Long-Term Strategy (LTS), and emerging Just Transition framework. Borje noted that the Philippines has already strengthened its climate policy architecture through the submission of its first NDC in 2021, the development of the NDC Implementation Plan in 2023, and the completion of the NAP 2023–2050 under the leadership of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. However, he emphasized that the challenge now lies beyond producing climate plans. “Increasingly, the deeper challenge lies in implementation. In governance coherence. In institutional coordination. In investment alignment. In deployment capacity. And in whether systems can move at the scale and speed that increasingly compounding risks now demand,” Borje further explained. The two-day consultation featured technical discussions and breakout workshops focused on identifying and prioritizing technologies for climate mitigation and adaptation across sectors including agriculture, energy, transport, waste, and industrial processes. Expected outputs include a portfolio of shortlisted technologies for climate mitigation and adaptation that will inform the preparation of the Philippines’ updated TNA reports. The consultation gathered various stakeholders from government agencies, academia, research institutions, civil society, and the private sector to identify and prioritize climate technologies aligned with the country’s mitigation and adaptation goals. The CCC reaffirms that technical consultations such as the TNA are essential in ensuring that climate action remains evidence-based, coordinated, and responsive to the realities faced by vulnerable communities. These efforts aim not only to perform the whole-of-government approach alone, but also to highlight that the TNA pursues an economy-wide and whole-of-society approach to ensure collective resolve in addressing increasingly interconnected climate risks.

Some of the climate adaptation projects supported under the People’s Survival Fund (PSF) in San Francisco, Camotes Island, Cebu, and Cabagan, Isabela. MANILA — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) has called on local government units (LGUs) to send in applications for the People’s Survival Fund (PSF), a funding mechanism that supports climate adaptation initiatives to strengthen resilience in vulnerable communities. This call was made after the Department of Finance (DOF), chair of the PSF Secretariat, announced that concept notes will be accepted until 29 May 2026. LGUs with limited capacity may submit a brief summary of the proposed project, which may earn an invitation to submit a full proposal or a non-selection letter from the PSF Board. The PSF is a dedicated national financing mechanism that supports adaptation projects beyond the regular budget capacities of LGUs, enabling them to address climate risks through targeted and responsive interventions. It provides funding for initiatives that respond to the impacts of climate change, including extreme rainfall, flooding, drought, and sea level rise. The CCC emphasized the importance of maximizing available climate finance mechanisms to enable locally driven, science-based, and community-centered solutions that directly benefit at-risk populations. The PSF is governed by a multi-sectoral board chaired by the DOF, with the CCC as part of the board providing technical guidance and support to project proponents throughout the application process. “The People’s Survival Fund is a critical tool to translate climate policies into concrete action on the ground. We encourage our local governments and partners to develop proposals that respond to their specific climate risks and protect their communities,” said Robert E. A. Borje, Vice Chairperson and Executive Director of the CCC. Through the PSF, eligible proponents may access funding for adaptation activities in key sectors, including water resources management, land management, agriculture and fisheries, health, infrastructure development, and the protection of natural and coastal ecosystems. The CCC also continues to assist LGUs in strengthening their capacity to develop bankable proposals aligned with national climate priorities. This underscores that expanding access to climate finance remains essential to building a climate-resilient Philippines, particularly for frontline and at-risk communities. This is in line with the vision of Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to strengthen climate resilience and sustainable development. Interested applicants may submit their proposals until 29 May  2026, through the PSF Board Secretariat or visit the official Facebook page of the DOF for more information. (https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1Lypuxd7z5/)

Representatives from the Climate Change Commission joined the Asian Regional Workshop in February 2026 to strengthen regional collaboration, share best practices, and advance climate resilience efforts across Asia. MANILA — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) underscored the importance of strengthening transparent and accountable climate reporting systems under the Enhanced Transparency Framework (ETF) of the Paris Agreement, as countries continue to address persistent challenges in climate data reporting and disclosure. The ETF serves as the global framework for tracking climate action, requiring Parties to submit structured reports on greenhouse gas emissions, adaptation efforts, and progress on climate commitments through the Biennial Transparency Report (BTR), including support needed, provided, and received. It aims to ensure that climate actions are transparent, comparable, and verifiable. Despite its importance, implementation of the ETF continues to face common challenges across countries, including non-centralized data collection systems, limited financial and technical resources, varying levels of familiarity with reporting requirements, and limited access to standardized reporting tools. These gaps affect the consistency and quality of climate transparency reporting. CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E. A. Borje emphasized the importance of strengthening transparency systems under the ETF. “Strengthening transparency systems under the Enhanced Transparency Framework is essential to ensure that climate reporting is consistent, credible, and evidence-based as we move toward the next reporting cycle,” Borje said. The CCC emphasized that strengthening institutional arrangements and improving national data systems are critical to ensuring credible and reliable climate reporting. Transparent systems are essential to support evidence-based decision-making and to translate climate commitments into measurable outcomes. The CCC also highlighted the importance of aligning reporting processes with ETF modalities, procedures, and guidelines under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement, to strengthen coherence, improve data integrity, and support continuous improvement of reporting systems. As part of ongoing efforts to strengthen transparency systems, the CCC continues to prioritize capacity-building, data integration, and institutional coordination to enhance the country’s climate reporting architecture and ensure sustained compliance with the Enhanced Transparency Framework.

The Climate Change Commission (CCC) convenes stakeholders and development partners during the second organizational meeting of the Gender and Climate Change Advisory Group and the Harmonized GAD Guidelines Checklist for Adaptation and Mitigation Programs.   QUEZON CITY – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) convened national government agencies, development partners, and members of the Gender and Climate Change Advisory Group (GCAG) to operationalize the GCAG by finalizing roles and coordination mechanisms, and piloting a harmonized checklist aimed at strengthening the integration of gender in climate change adaptation and mitigation programs. The initiative supports the implementation of the Philippines’ Nationally Determined Contribution Gender Action Plan (NDC GAP) 2024–2030, which recognizes gender equality and social inclusion as essential components of effective climate action. The GCAG, established in February of this year, serves as a coordination mechanism that brings together gender and climate focal persons from government agencies to support the implementation of the NDC GAP, strengthen interagency coordination, and improve gender integration in climate policies and programs. Discussions during the meeting focused on clarifying coordination arrangements within the GCAG, including the roles and responsibilities of member agencies and focal point systems. “This working group is expected to improve coordination, strengthen the integration of gender into climate policies and measures, improve reporting systems, and support practical tools agencies can use,” CCC Commissioner Rachel Anne S. Herrera said. The pilot testing of the Harmonized GAD Guidelines Checklist for Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation was conducted to assess its usability in helping agencies in integrating gender considerations into the design, implementation, and monitoring of climate-related programs and projects. Herrera underscored the importance of the checklist in ensuring consistent application of gender mainstreaming across government climate interventions. DENR Undersecretary, Analiza Rebuelta-Teh, chairperson of the DENR National Gender and Development Focal Point System and co-chair of the GCAG, emphasized the importance of the HGDG checklist. "This tool is our compass, designed to ensure our climate programs are not 'gender-blind' but are substantively addressing the vulnerabilities and leadership of women in the face of a changing climate. “The checklist gives us a harmonized way to assess whether climate-related policies, programs, activities, and projects are gender-responsive from design to implementation and monitoring,” she said. CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje expressed support for the initiative, noting its role in advancing inclusive and climate-smart governance under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. “The pilot testing, alongside the establishment of the advisory group, strengthens efforts to translate gender and climate commitments into coordinated and implementable action. It reflects our commitment under the Marcos administration to ensure climate action is inclusive, science-based, and effectively integrated across government systems,” Borje said. The CCC remains steadfast in its commitment to strengthen coordination and institutionalize gender-responsive climate action across national government systems. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming programs and partnerships, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.

At the ASEAN-EU Sustainability Summit 2026, the Climate Change Commission (CCC) underscores the need to shift ASEAN–EU climate cooperation from policy alignment to implementation, emphasizing the urgency of delivering concrete, measurable results on the ground. CEBU CITY, Philippines | 07 May 2026 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) underscored the need to strengthen implementation systems and address persistent delivery gaps in climate action, emphasizing that ASEAN–EU cooperation must move beyond policy alignment and shift to achieving concrete results on the ground. Speaking at the ASEAN–EU Sustainability Summit 2026 in Cebu, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje stressed the urgency of translating climate commitments into measurable outcomes. “Now is a time for us to take a few steps back and to look at what the gaps and challenges are. Because truthfully, the challenge for us is really delivering on the ground and implementation,” Borje said. The inaugural ASEAN-EU Sustainability Summit, held on 7 May 2026 as an official side event of the 48th ASEAN Leaders’ Summit, convened key leaders from government, business, and development institutions to advance regional sustainability and resilience, as part of the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairship. Borje noted that while ASEAN Member States continue to strengthen climate ambition through Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), National Adaptation Plans (NAPs), and other regional frameworks, the challenge now lies in moving consistently from policymaking to implementation and assessment. He identified three major gaps that continue to constrain climate action delivery across ASEAN: institutional coordination across sectors, ministries, and levels of government; implementation capacity at scale, particularly at the subnational level where execution happens; and project preparation and execution readiness for resilience investments. “Climate resilience cuts across sectors, ministries, and levels of government, and our delivery systems are still catching up to that reality,” Borje said, adding that implementation support at scale remains critical across ASEAN Member States and local governments. The CCC emphasized that these challenges should also be viewed as opportunities to strengthen cooperation between ASEAN, the European Union (EU), governments, development partners, and the private sector in accelerating practical and scalable climate solutions. Borje underscored the importance of adopting a whole-of-society approach, recognizing the private sector as a key partner in mobilizing finance, innovation, technology, and investments needed to strengthen resilience and support green growth. “Government should see the private sector as a key partner,” he said, stressing that climate and resilience policies must be grounded in realities while maintaining ambition and enabling investments that move communities “from a state of fragility to a state of agility.” The CCC also highlighted the importance of integrated and science-based approaches to climate resilience, particularly amid growing energy and economic uncertainties affecting the region. Borje described the ongoing energy crisis as a “systemic shock” and “systemic stress” for countries that remain dependent on fossil fuels, emphasizing the need for governments to balance immediate energy security concerns with long-term goals for a just and equitable green transition. He cited the Philippines’ ongoing efforts to strengthen energy efficiency, energy security, and renewable energy investments while promoting resilience-oriented and data-driven policymaking. The CCC likewise underscored the value of ASEAN–EU cooperation in advancing innovation, climate governance, risk-informed planning, and science-based decision-making, including through the use of satellite and Earth observation technologies such as the Copernicus programme. As ASEAN Chair in 2026, the Philippines continues to advocate for stronger regional cooperation that prioritizes execution, scalability, and inclusivity in climate action. The CCC reaffirmed its commitment to working with ASEAN-EU cooperation to strengthen implementation systems, scale effective solutions, and ensure that climate policies translate into real, measurable benefits for vulnerable communities.

The Climate Change Commission (CCC) met with the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Manila to explore areas of collaboration on nature-based solutions (NBS) for climate adaptation and mitigation.   MANILA, Philippines – The Climate Change Commission (CCC), led by Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje, and the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, led by Ambassador Marielle Geraedts, are exploring ways to advance nature-based solutions (NBS) as a key strategy for climate change adaptation and mitigation. At a meeting held at the CCC, both parties highlighted opportunities to strengthen bilateral cooperation on climate action, particularly in scaling up ecosystems-based approaches that reduce climate risks while supporting sustainable development. “Nature-based solutions are among the most powerful and practical responses to the climate crisis. By working with ecosystems-based approaches such as protecting forests, restoring wetlands, and rehabilitating coastal areas, we not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also strengthen our natural defenses against climate impacts,” Borje said. Both parties identified potential areas of collaboration, including participation in ASEAN–Netherlands cross-learning initiatives on climate adaptation and NBS, aimed at facilitating the exchange of technical expertise and best practices across the region. The discussions are aligned with the Philippines’ National Adaptation Plan (NAP) 2023–2050, which identifies the scaling up of nature-based solutions as a key cross-sectoral strategy, as well as the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), which outlines the country’s commitment to greenhouse gas emissions reduction and climate resilience. The Netherlands, recognized globally for its expertise in water management, climate adaptation, and integrated, nature-based approaches to flood risk reduction, expressed its support for a strengthened partnership with the Philippines through knowledge sharing, capacity-building, and innovative solutions. The CCC underscored that strong partnerships with development partners such as the Netherlands are crucial in advancing climate action, particularly in mobilizing climate finance, technology transfer, and capacity-building support. This engagement reflects the CCC’s continuing commitment to continued collaboration among governments, development partners, and local stakeholders to accelerate the implementation of nature-based solutions in support of the country’s climate resilience and sustainable development agenda.

The Climate Change Commission takes part in the Asian Conference on Climate Change and Disaster Resilience, underscoring the need for strategic climate finance to support resilient investments across Asia. MAKATI CITY – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) emphasized the need for strategic climate finance to strengthen resilience against intensifying climate impacts across the region during the Asian Conference on Climate Change and Disaster Resilience (ACCCDR) held at the Asian Institute of Management (AIM). As climate risks continue to escalate across Asian countries, the CCC underscored that climate action must evolve into more innovative and transformative approaches that respond to emerging and complex threats. Senator Loren Legarda highlighted the critical role of anticipatory finance, stressing that investments must be made early and strategically to reduce risks before they escalate. “Anticipatory finance is not just about acting early. It is about making the right investments early so that risk is reduced at the point of design and not after failure.” “It is about the speed of the peso moving from the national treasury to a local barangay before the storm makes landfall,” she added. Echoing this, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E. A. Borje emphasized that resilience begins with informed and forward-looking investments. “We must stop building and rebuilding the same risks over and over again. We must build right at first sight. Instead of repeatedly building after being destroyed, we need to invest right from the start. With best available science and data-driven planning, we can plan and implement well, ensuring that every peso spent reduces and does not reinforce risk.” Borje said. He further emphasized that climate finance must be anchored in science-based strategies. In particular, he pointed to the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) as a key policy framework that guides national and local governments in identifying vulnerabilities and directing investments where they are most needed. The NAP, developed under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., advances a climate-smart and climate-resilient development pathway for the country by enabling targeted, data-driven adaptation measures across sectors and communities. From the local governance perspective, Assistant Secretary Lilian De Leon of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) emphasized the urgency of rethinking traditional disaster response approaches, noting the increasing pressure on frontline institutions. “Our traditional approaches to disaster management, while foundational, are no longer sufficient to keep pace with these realities. We must therefore shift not only in strategy but in mindset.” The conference served as a regional platform that brought together key stakeholders from government, academia, the private sector, and development institutions for a series of high-level panel discussions focused on climate finance, policy alignment, and resilience-building across Asia. With the theme “From Risk to Readiness: Investing in Climate Futures in Asia,” the conference gathers key stakeholders from the legislative, national, and local governments, civil society organizations, as well as the private sector and academe to advance climate finance and drive resilient investment across the region. The event was organized by the Asian Institute of Management, co-organized by the Climate Change Commission, and supported by key partners. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.

Senator Loren Legarda delivers her keynote address at the Asian Conference on Climate Change and Disaster Resilience, emphasizing the crucial role of anticipatory climate action. MAKATI CITY – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) and Senator Loren Legarda both emphasized the importance of stronger anticipatory action legislation to strengthen resilience and preparedness against the impacts of climate change and protect vulnerable communities. In her keynote speech at the Asian Conference on Climate Change and Disaster Resilience, Legarda underscored that policy reforms must shift climate governance from reactive disaster response toward systems that enable early and science-based action, particularly through institutionalized financing and preparedness mechanisms. “We must tear down the firewall between ‘relief’ and ‘readiness.’ Our national budget has long treated climate finance as a post-mortem expense. We allocate billions for after, but pennies for just before. We need to activate resources for anticipatory use.” Legarda stressed that legislative innovation must play a central role in advancing anticipatory response, ensuring that communities and other vulnerable groups are better equipped before disasters strike. “I propose that we move toward a model of 'Conditional Early Action." This means pre-positioning funds in the accounts of local governments—not for rebuilding schools, but for retrofitting them.” “And we need to recognize that vulnerability is not uniform. Women, indigenous communities, the elderly, the PWDs, and those in geographically isolated areas face differentiated and compounded risks. Anticipatory finance must be redesigned to reach them first and not last,” Legarda said. CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje also emphasized that anticipatory climate action means that we should not think about how often we can rebuild, but how we rarely are destroyed. “We must stop building and rebuilding the same risks over and over again. We must build right at first sight. Instead of repeatedly building after being destroyed, we need to invest right from the start. With best available science and data-driven planning, we can plan and implement well, ensuring that every peso spent reduces and does not reinforce risk,” Borje said. A long-time climate champion, Legarda authored key pieces of legislation that form the backbone of the country’s climate and disaster risk governance, including the Climate Change Act of 2009, the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010, and the People’s Survival Fund Act. The conference convened representatives from government agencies, academic institutions, the private sector, and civil society. International development organizations – including the Embassy of France, World Bank, Asian Development Bank, and regional DRM practitioners – were also present to exchange insights and advance collaboration on climate finance, policy coherence, and resilience-building efforts across Asia. Carrying the theme “From Risk to Readiness: Investing in Climate Futures in Asia,” the event aimed to strengthen partnerships and mobilize investments that support climate-resilient 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) and the Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (KWF) have formalized a strategic partnership to strengthen the accessibility of climate information through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on 04 May 2026. MANILA, Philippines | 5 May 2026 – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (KWF), reinforcing a partnership that strengthens the accessibility of climate information. Recognizing that the climate crisis is both a scientific and societal challenge, the partnership underscores the need to communicate climate information in ways that are clear, relatable, and grounded in the languages of Filipino communities. CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje highlighted the significance of the joint work between the Commission and KWF, citing that KWF is a critical ally in the fight against the climate crisis. “Ang KWF ay mahalagang kaagapay ng CCC sa adbokasiya ng aksyong pang-klima at sa pagtugon sa krisis na kaakibat ng nagbabagong klima,” Borje said. “Bagama't unibersal ang datos at siyensya ng pagbabago ng klima, ang pagpapabatid ng mga epekto nito ay dapat na lokal, inklusibo, at higit sa lahat ay naiintindihan ng bawat isang mamamayan mula sa iba’t ibang antas ng lipunan.” Borje emphasized that the initiative supports the implementation of key national frameworks, including the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) built under the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., by strengthening climate literacy and enabling more effective local action. “Ang ganitong teknikal na dokumento ay nangangailangan ng koordinasyon sa inyong institusyon upang masiguro na napapanatili nito ang linguistic inclusivity. Dito nagtatagpo ang dalawang tungkulin: ang CCC sa pagbibigay-linaw sa panganib at direksyon ng patakaran, at ang KWF sa pagtiyak na ito ay nauunawaan at nagiging bahagi ng buhay ng bawat Pilipino,” he added. Affirming this, KWF Chairperson Atty. Marites A. Barrios-Taran highlighted the critical role of language in nation-building and climate action. “Ang ating wika ay dapat na nagsisilbi sa tao. Ang Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino ay itinatag hindi lamang upang maging bantay ng balarila o tagasuri ng mga salita; ang ating serbisyo ay kailangang nakararating sa mga mamamayan,” Atty. Barrios-Taran expressed. The partnership also sets the stage for sustained collaboration between the two agencies, including the joint development of communication materials, conduct of capacity-building activities, and co-creation of campaigns that utilize the best available scientific data using national and regional languages. The partnership reflects a whole-of-government approach to climate action, integrating scientific knowledge with cultural and linguistic inclusivity to build a more climate-resilient Philippines. The CCC remains steadfast in engaging with various sectors to advance climate action domestically and globally, reaffirming its commitment to building a climate-resilient and sustainable Philippines. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. delivered a message at the inaugural session of the ASEAN Climate Week, highlighting a whole-of-system approach in confronting the global crisis. The Climate Change Commission (CCC) also joined the event and participated in the high-level panel discussion conducted via Zoom. MANILA, Philippines — During the inaugural session of the ASEAN Climate Week on Monday, Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. highlighted that the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), through a whole-of-system approach and strengthened collaboration, holds the resolve to confront the global crisis. “ASEAN stands at the frontlines of the global climate crisis, as stronger storms, rising seas, prolonged droughts, and devastating floods have become realities for millions across the southeast asian region.“ Marcos added, “Confronting these challenges is our shared responsibility and ASEAN has shown that through cooperation, we can overcome common problems with our collective purpose and resolve.” Reiterating President Marcos’ message, the Climate Change Commission (CCC) also underscored an integrated, whole-of-system approach to ensure long-term resilience and economic stability during the inaugural session. The CCC recognized ASEAN as a key platform for strengthening coordination and partnerships to address the global climate crisis. CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje emphasized that addressing climate risks requires a shift from fragmented responses toward more integrated and coordinated systems across the region. “The Philippines approaches this challenge with the recognition that climate risks, economic stability, and energy systems across ASEAN are increasingly interconnected. At the same time, responses remain largely national in scope. This gap—between shared exposure and fragmented control—underscores the need for more integrated and coordinated approaches.” Borje further noted that maintaining climate ambition while ensuring resilience and stability requires aligning each priority within a coherent system that supports long-term development. The ASEAN Climate Week, which is being held from April 27 to May 1, aims to advance Nationally Determined Contributions, strengthen climate action through high-level dialogues, technical exchanges, and targeted training across ASEAN. Held for the first time and hosted by the Philippines, the ASEAN Climate Week underscores the country’s role in advancing regional climate leadership and deepening collaboration among ASEAN Member States in addressing interconnected climate, energy, and development challenges. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.

Strengthening climate transparency. The Climate Change Commission (CCC), together with key national agencies and development partners, officially launched the Capacity-Building Initiative for Transparency in the Philippines (CBIT PH), a project aimed at strengthening the country’s capacity to comply with the transparency requirements of the Paris Agreement. PASIG CITY – The Climate Change Commission recently launched the Capacity-Building Initiative for Transparency in the Philippines (CBIT PH), a transparency project aimed at strengthening the country’s capacity to comply with the transparency requirements under Article 13 of the Paris Agreement. Implemented by the CCC as executing agency, in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) as co-lead, the CBIT PH is funded by the Global Environment Facility through Conservation International – Global Environment Facility (CI-GEF), with the Manila Observatory serving as executing agency support partner and project management unit. In his opening remarks, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje emphasized the need to integrate existing policies, data systems, and platforms into a cohesive and functional whole. “We have policies that set direction. We have sectoral systems that generate data. We have platforms that are meant to bring these together. And under the Paris Agreement, particularly through the Enhanced Transparency Framework, we are expected to connect all of these to track progress, to understand impact, and to inform decisions.” “These are not separate requirements. In practice, they have to work as one system that links science, policy, and investment and allows us to act with clarity and consistency. The CBIT Philippines Project is meant to operationalize that,” Borje added. An inception workshop followed the launch, which convened key government agencies including the Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), and Department of Transportation (DOTr), development partners, and stakeholders to align strategies for enhancing the country’s climate transparency systems, particularly on Measurement, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) of greenhouse gas emissions. The project is co-led with the DENR, with support from the Global Environment Facility through Conservation International – Global Environment Facility (CI-GEF). DENR Undersecretary Analiza Rebuelta-Teh underscored the importance of transparency in driving global climate ambition, noting that investments in transparency serve as the backbone of the global transition toward a low-carbon and climate-resilient future. “A strong transparency system allows us to demonstrate progress of our Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), unlock greater access to climate finance, and design policies that are grounded in real and reliable data,” Teh said. Meanwhile, Aki Marcelino of CI-GEF highlighted that transparency remains central to the Paris Agreement, enabling countries to track progress and strengthen accountability. Fr. Ramon Villarin of the Manila Observatory also emphasized that transparency lies at the heart of climate action, stressing the need for stronger institutional capacity and data systems. Held on April 20–21, 2026, the two-day workshop featured presentations from key sectoral agencies, including the Department of Energy, DOTr, and DENR, on their ongoing transparency initiatives for greenhouse gas emissions. Discussions also surfaced challenges in reporting and identified capacity needs to support the country’s Enhanced Transparency Framework. A ceremonial signing of commitment among partner institutions was also conducted, reaffirming support for the project. On the second day, participating agencies engaged in workshops on the CBIT PH results framework, targets, budget, and workplan, contributing to the project’s three-year implementation roadmap. Anchored on Article 13 of the Paris Agreement, CBIT PH aims to strengthen institutional coordination, enhance technical capacities, and improve knowledge sharing to enable a more transparent, coherent, and responsive climate information system, supporting the whole-of-government approach to climate action under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. The CCC emphasized that strengthening transparency systems will not only support compliance with international commitments but also improve climate policy development, resource mobilization, and overall governance, in line with the administration’s push for science-based, data-driven, and accountable climate action.   For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.

At the ASEAN Climate Week, the Climate Change Commission (CCC) underscores the need to institutionalize climate budget tagging to ensure transparency, accountability, and data-driven decision-making across governments. MANILA, Philippines | 29 April 2026 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) emphasized the importance of institutionalizing climate budget tagging systems to strengthen transparency, accountability, and evidence-based decision-making for climate action during the ASEAN Climate Week Parallel Session on Climate Finance and Climate–Economy Modelling. Speaking at the regional knowledge exchange, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje underscored that climate action must be treated not only as an ecological concern but also as a fiscal and economic discipline, requiring robust systems that guide public investment and planning. He highlighted the Philippines’ Climate Change Expenditure Tagging (CCET) system as an essential tool for governments to identify, classify, and track climate-related expenditures, bringing structure and transparency into how governments account for climate action and align with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Sustainable Development Goals. “At its core, CCET is about transparency and accountability. It allows our Government to clearly report how public funds are utilized for climate action not only for compliance under the Enhanced Transparency Framework and the Biennial Transparency Reports, but to ensure that spending leads to measurable outcomes.” Borje also stressed that no country can build effective climate finance systems in isolation, pointing to the need for strong whole-of-government coordination among environment, finance, and planning institutions. Such coordination, he said, is essential to ensure coherence in climate policies and optimize the use of limited resources. At the regional level, the CCC recognized ASEAN as a vital platform for knowledge exchange and capacity building, enabling Member States to share experiences, align approaches, and collectively strengthen climate finance frameworks. The session, organized by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Department of Finance (DOF) as part of the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairship in 2026, brought together senior officials and technical experts from across ASEAN to discuss climate finance tracking, fiscal planning, and climate–economy modelling. The CCC reiterated that strengthening climate finance systems requires sustained collaboration, continuous improvement of data systems, and a shared commitment across institutions and countries to advance transparency and accountability in climate action. The ASEAN Climate Week, held from April 27 to May 1, aims to advance Nationally Determined Contributions, strengthen climate action through high-level dialogues, technical exchanges, and targeted training across ASEAN. Held for the first time and hosted by the Philippines, the ASEAN Climate Week underscores the country’s role in advancing regional climate leadership and deepening collaboration among ASEAN Member States in addressing interconnected climate, energy, and development challenges. As the Philippines continues to champion climate governance and finance innovations, the CCC reaffirmed its commitment to working with ASEAN partners to scale up effective tools such as CCET and support the region’s transition toward resilient, inclusive, and climate-smart development.

Strengthening institutional capacities and promoting fiscal transparency. The Climate Change Commission (CCC) conducted its Annual Climate Change Expenditure Tagging (CCET) Orientation for the Fiscal Year 2027 National Budget Preparations, bringing together key stakeholders from national government agencies, state universities and colleges, and government-owned or -controlled corporations. The Climate Change Commission (CCC) convened key government institutions for its annual Climate Change Expenditure Tagging (CCET) orientation in support of the Fiscal Year 2027 national budget preparations, reinforcing efforts to integrate climate action into public planning and budgeting. The CCET is a key policy tool that enables government agencies to track, monitor, and report climate-related expenditures, ensuring that public investments contribute to climate resilience and low-carbon development. It also promotes transparency and accountability in the use of public funds for climate action. In his opening remarks, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E. A. Borje underscored the importance of CCET as a mechanism that strengthens transparency and accountability in the use of public funds for climate action. “This [CCET] is not merely a compliance requirement; these are public funds, and we have a responsibility to ensure they are managed with the highest level of integrity,” Borje said. “Now, this leads to a crucial point: the effectiveness of CCET depends entirely on the active participation of all agencies. It is a whole-of-government effort,” he added. Echoing this, CCC Commissioner Rachel Anne Herrera highlighted the value of accurate climate expenditure tagging in guiding better policy and investment decisions. “When climate expenditures are tagged properly, we get a clear picture of where the support from taxpayers’ money is going, where the gaps remain, and where public resources may not yet be aligned with climate risk. We are in a better position to make decisions, to design programs, and improve on them, so that we can better explain our choices to the public who we serve,” Herrera said. On behalf of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Rolando U. Toledo, DBM Undersecretary Goddes Hope Libiran emphasized the role of CCET in ensuring coherence and effectiveness in climate-related spending. “CCET is what allows us to see clearly: where our climate funds are going, how effective they are, and whether they are truly addressing the risks faced by our communities. Without it, climate spending becomes fragmented. With it, we gain direction, discipline, and accountability,” Libiran said. The two-day activity, held in collaboration with the DBM, aimed to build the capacity of participating institutions to undertake climate change expenditure tagging and align their programs, activities, and projects with national climate priorities. Conducted in a hybrid format, the orientation gathered 1,381 participants across platforms, from different national government agencies (NGAs), state universities and colleges (SUCs), and government-owned or -controlled corporations (GOCCs). During the orientation, participants were provided with updates on climate change policies, planning frameworks, and budgeting processes. The session also offered technical guidance on the application of CCET methodologies, equipping agencies with the knowledge needed to effectively align their proposed programs with the country’s climate agenda. This activity also included focus group discussions (FGD) on its second day, conducted in partnership with the University of the Philippines National College of Public Administration and Governance - Governance Reform, Integrity, and Transformation Research Collaboratory (UP NCPAG GRIT Labs) as part of the National CCET Impact Assessment. The FGDs generated valuable qualitative inputs on implementation realities, including institutional constraints, capacity gaps, and emerging practices that contribute to more effective climate expenditure tagging. The CCC emphasized the importance of strengthening institutional capacity and fostering a whole-of-government approach to climate action, particularly in ensuring that climate considerations are systematically embedded in the national budget. Through initiatives such as the CCET Orientation, the Commission continues to advance climate governance by enabling agencies to make informed, strategic, and accountable investments that support the country’s long-term resilience and sustainable development goals.

The Climate Change Commission emphasizes the need to strengthen alignment between national and local action plans to address climate risks more effectively. CEBU CITY — The Climate Change Commission (CCC), along with other national government agencies, local officials, and faith-based leaders, pushed for stronger alignment between local planning and national climate policies to reinforce Cebu’s resilience against intensifying climate risks during the Cebu Climate Action Summit 2026. The CCC emphasized the role of the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) in guiding local government units (LGUs) to develop science-based, actionable strategies, including Local Climate Change Action Plans (LCCAPs), Annual Investment Plans (AIPs), and Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) plans. Recognizing Cebu’s high exposure to flooding, intense rainfall, sea level rise, and landslides, the CCC underscored the urgency of coordinated, forward-looking action. From 2021 to 2025 the province has incurred nearly ₱14 billion in damages from major typhoons, including Odette, Tino, and Uwan, placing lives, livelihoods, and critical infrastructure at risk. CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje stressed the need to move beyond planning toward coherent and aligned implementation. “We do not lack plans. We lack alignment. If conditions are changing, our path to development cannot remain the same. When systems align, risk is reduced before it becomes loss.” He emphasized that climate risks are becoming more complex and interconnected across sectors. “We are no longer dealing with isolated hazards, but with risks that move across systems.” Cebu Governor Pamela S. Baricuatro acknowledged the province’s increasing climate risks, citing the changing nature of weather patterns and their growing impacts on communities. "The challenges are changing, the rain is no longer what it used to be. What used to be a simple downpour can now mean flooding, disruption, and danger," Baricuatro said. The discussion featured sessions that deepened understanding of climate hazards and enabled the exchange of best practices across key sectors. Ms. Corazon B. Clarin, Convenor of the Cebu Disability-Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction initiative, underscored the importance of social equity and accessibility, emphasizing that persons with disabilities must be fully included in climate action. The Archbishop of Cebu, Most Rev. Alberto S. Uy, D.D., highlighted the moral urgency of climate action, calling for reflection that leads to concrete action. "Today, those cries are becoming louder. The cry of the poor, the cry of the earth, and even the cry of future generations. These are not separate cries; they are one, and they are calling us not just to reflect but to act." The Province of Cebu remains highly vulnerable to compounding hazards, including flooding in low-lying and urban areas, rain-induced landslides in upland communities, and drought that threatens water security and agriculture. These overlapping risks underscore the need for integrated planning and sustained investment in resilience. The Summit was organized by the Cebu Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, which brought together national government agencies, local government units, non-government organizations, the academe, faith-based institutions, and the private sector. It served as a platform to strengthen. This supports the guidance and vision of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for whole-of-government and whole-of-society approaches, ensuring that policies, plans, and investments work together to build a climate-resilient future. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.

National and regional civil society organizations (CSOs) and women’s groups convene in “Regional CSO Dialogue for an Inclusive and Just Transition in Southeast Asia,” held on 27 April 2026 in Taguig City. TAGUIG, Philippines | 27 April 2026 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) underscored the vital role of coherence and coordination in the recently held Regional CSO Dialogue for an Inclusive and Just Transition in Southeast Asia, in line with the priorities of the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairship 2026. Speaking at the dialogue, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje emphasized that climate ambition must translate into outcomes that work under real-world conditions across diverse systems and capacities in the region. He noted that climate risks across ASEAN are increasingly interconnected and systemic, requiring coordinated, whole-of-society approaches. He stressed that the transition being pursued goes beyond sustainability, with implications for resilience, energy security, and long-term competitiveness. “A just transition cannot remain a principle, it has to become a discipline,” Borje said, highlighting the need to ground policies in how economies function, how communities live, and how systems respond under stress. He pointed out that while ASEAN has multiple platforms on climate change, disaster resilience, and energy cooperation, the challenge now is ensuring these deliver better data, improved access to finance, and stronger implementation on the ground. Borje underscored that policies are strengthened when informed by the needs and experiences of communities, emphasizing the critical role of CSOs in shaping inclusive and responsive climate action. The dialogue, which was organized by the ASEAN-UK Green Transition Fund through the ALAM (Advancing Learning and capacities in the ASEAN on Mitigation: Financing a Just and Nature-Positive Energy Transition) Project, gathered over 30 national and regional CSOs and women’s organisations working on climate change and just transition to exchange knowledge, experiences, and good practices on accessing climate finance and implementing just transition initiatives. As the Philippines chairs ASEAN in 2026, Borje said the country is advancing a climate agenda that is science-based, people-centered, and action-oriented, with a focus on strengthening enabling conditions for implementation, particularly in aligning data, finance, and systems across sectors. The CCC, under the guidance of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., reaffirmed the importance of sustained partnerships among governments, civil society, the private sector, and development partners to translate regional commitments into concrete outcomes, especially for vulnerable communities. The regional dialogue contributes to ongoing efforts to inform the ASEAN Joint Statement on Climate Change and strengthen collaboration on climate finance and just transition pathways across Southeast Asia.

The Climate Change Commission (CCC) highlights the role of climate-smart investments in transforming the healthcare sector into a more efficient, resilient, and equitable system, supporting the country’s public health. PASIG CITY — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) supports the initiative of the Department of Health (DOH) on health sector emissions accounting, which underscores the critical link between climate change and public health, during the launch of the Philippine Health System Integrated National Accounting of Greenhouse Gases (PH-SINAG). The DOH PH-SINAG emphasizes the importance of integrating emissions reduction and adaptation with the health sector while strengthening service delivery.   In his message, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje noted that the healthcare sector, which accounts for around 5.6 percent of national emissions, is both a contributor to and a frontline responder to climate change impacts and a critical platform for the country’s climate action. “The health system may not always sit in the foreground of mitigation discussions. But it is clearly a major cross-sector implementation platform, with relevance to energy, transport, waste, buildings, procurement, and public expenditure,” Borje said. The Commission underscored that climate-informed health systems are essential to reduce vulnerabilities, minimize asset loss, and ensure continuity of care amid increasing climate risks such as extreme heat, flooding, and stronger typhoons, referring to the National Adaptation Plan (NAP). The CCC emphasized that PH-SINAG provides a specific and decision-useful baseline, enabling the emissions within the sector to be more visible and measurable while also enabling institutions to better integrate climate plans into core health system functions. “The task now is not simply to acknowledge emissions. It is to institutionalize the response into planning and budgeting, procurement and infrastructure decisions, facility operations and performance management,” Borje emphasized. PH-SINAG is the first comprehensive, system-wide greenhouse gas emissions baseline for the Philippine health system. Its report addresses the critical gap by providing the evidence base needed to formally anchor the health sector into the Philippines’ climate commitments. Department of Health Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa acknowledged the growing strain of climate risks on health systems, citing the impacts of extreme weather events, flooding, extreme heat, and pollution on both health outcomes and service delivery. He also underscored PH-SINAG as a critical foundation for identifying emission sources and guiding strategic investments in sustainable and resilient healthcare systems. “This initiative supports the broader goal of integrating health into the national climate commitments and strengthening interagency collaboration for sustainable development. More importantly, this event builds a shared commitment across sectors, promising sustainable health facilities and initiating a roadmap for decarbonization through energy transition, digital solutions, and green procurement,” Herbosa said. The PH-SINAG aims to institutionalize a climate-informed approach to the country’s healthcare system that translates data into action, strengthens resilience, and delivers wider public value. The CCC further highlighted that the initiative strengthens the country’s broader climate architecture by improving measurement, reporting, and verification (MRV) systems, and reinforcing monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning (MEAL) across the sector. The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to working with partners to ensure that PH-SINAG evolves from an analytical milestone into a durable instrument for evidence-based planning and accountable implementation, supporting a climate-resilient and people-centered health system.

The CCC presented the Philippines’ frameworks on climate finance systems, governance, and budgeting, including the CCET system, to the government representatives from Nepal. Manila, Philippines – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) and the Department of Finance (DOF) convened a peer-to-peer learning exchange with government representatives from Nepal, providing a platform to share best practices on climate finance systems, governance, and budgeting. Organized by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) through the Climate Finance Network (CFN) under the UK-funded Climate Action for Resilient Asia (CARA) Programme, the exchange aimed to facilitate knowledge sharing on climate finance strategies, institutional frameworks, and tools supporting climate action. The Philippines, through the CCC, presented the current national frameworks, including the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) of the Philippines 2023-2050 and the Nationally Determined Contribution Implementation Plan (NDCIP) 2020-2030. The Climate Change Expenditure Tagging (CCET) system was also presented, which institutionalizes the tagging and tracking of climate-related programs, activities, and projects across government. Ms. Aimee Evangelista from the CCC’s Implementation Oversight Division highlighted that “climate budget tagging is not only about tracking expenditures, but about ensuring that public resources are aligned with national climate priorities.” The exchange also highlighted the Philippines’ People’s Survival Fund (PSF) as a key domestic adaptation finance mechanism. The PSF supports local government units and communities in implementing climate adaptation projects, with the DOF serving as the Secretariat and the CCC as one of the members of the PSF Board. The exchange also provided an opportunity for both countries to discuss common challenges, including mobilizing private sector investment, improving data systems and reporting mechanisms, and enhancing access to international climate finance. CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje emphasized that strengthening climate finance systems requires sustained collaboration and knowledge exchange, highlighting the role of peer learning in advancing transparent, accountable, and evidence-based climate action across countries. Director John Narag of the DOF’s Climate Finance Policy Group welcomed the Nepal delegation and underscored the importance of peer learning in strengthening climate finance systems, particularly as the Philippines continues to advance regional cooperation as ASEAN Chair. He highlighted the Philippines’ institutional setup, where the DOF works in coordination with the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and interagency bodies including the Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) to align fiscal policy and budgeting, alongside ongoing efforts to strengthen climate finance tracking through initiatives such as a climate finance dashboard. Nepal shared its experience in implementing Climate Budget Tagging (CBT), introduced in 2012 as one of the first systems globally to track climate-related public expenditures. Representatives from the Ministry of Finance highlighted how CBT supports planning, monitoring, and reporting of climate investments across national and subnational levels. Participating agencies from Nepal included the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, Alternative Energy Promotion Center, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Forests and Environment, and the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs. Both the Philippines and Nepal reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration and sustaining knowledge exchange, recognizing peer learning as a key mechanism for institutionalizing climate finance in national planning and budgeting, and supporting long-term resilience and 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) joins the Urban Heat and Drought Summit organized by the Quezon City Government, which brings together national government agencies, civil society organizations, local government units, and development partners to advance climate action against urban heat. Manila, Philippines — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) underscored the urgency of localizing the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) 2023-2050 to local government units (LGUs) as a key strategy to combat intensifying heat indices during the Urban Heat and Drought Summit 2026 organized by the Quezon City Government and CityNet on April 14. “This dry season, we continue to experience intense heat, which highlights the need for urgent and coordinated action. Through NAP localization, we provide a science-based roadmap that will guide the country in addressing heat risks while protecting key sectors and human health,” said CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje. While national in scope, the Commission stressed that the NAP’s impact depends on strong localization, translating strategies into concrete, community-level action that allows LGUs to respond directly to climate risks. Mr. Arnold Grant S. Belver of the CCC’s Policy Research and Development Division, who presented the NAP, emphasized the importance of stronger coordination between national and local governments to ensure effective implementation at the community level. “Strengthening the bond between the national government and Quezon City, and indeed all local governments, is essential to ensure that the NAP translates into concrete, inclusive, and climate-resilient actions for every Filipino community. The temperature and heat is rising, but so is our resolve,” Belver said. Extreme heat continues to escalate in urban areas. In Quezon City alone, heat index levels in 2024 and 2025 reached as high as 46°C, which raised risks to public health, disrupted daily life, and strained energy and water systems. “The NAP is a tailored-fit adaptation strategy for each locality, ensuring that interventions respond directly to their unique climate risks and conditions,” Borje added. The NAP, developed under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., serves as the country’s long-term roadmap to strengthen climate resilience and adaptive capacity toward sustainable development by 2050. In Quezon City, the impacts of extreme heat are becoming more visible across communities, particularly among vulnerable sectors exposed to high temperatures. “But climate change does not announce itself in global averages, it is felt by our people, most especially in specific places,” said Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte. The summit gathered CityNet member cities, national and local governments, academe, private sector, development partners, and key stakeholders to drive coordinated action, share solutions, and accelerate climate adaptation efforts against urban heat and drought. The CCC remains committed to localizing the NAP as a key framework for strengthening 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.

Giving Earth a break. The Climate Change Commission (CCC) joins the 20th global switch-off event of the Earth Hour movement, where switching on habits for the planet is emphasized as an important role in climate advocacy. PASIG CITY – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) joined the global observance of Earth Hour 2026 on March 28, from 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM, calling on Filipinos to go beyond the symbolic switching off of lights and embrace long-term, sustainable habits to combat the climate crisis. Now in its 20th year, the annual Earth Hour movement serves as a platform to raise awareness on climate change and biodiversity conservation, mobilizing millions of people across the globe to take collective action. This year’s theme, “Give an Hour for Earth,” aimed to create the "Biggest Hour for Earth" by encouraging people to spend 60 minutes doing something positive for the planet. The event was supported by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., where he urged the public to adopt energy-saving habits and promote environmental responsibility amid global challenges, including the ongoing energy crisis. “This year’s event provides a timely and relevant opportunity for us to reflect not only on the issue of climate change and environmental preservation, but also on the need to conserve energy and to limit fuel consumption amid the current global crisis.” “Earth Hour reminds us that how we use energy affects us all and shows not just our ways but also the kind of future that we choose to build for our nation and our planet,” President Marcos added. CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje stressed that while the one-hour lights-off initiative demonstrates unity and environmental awareness, meaningful climate action must extend beyond the hour and translate into everyday practices. “Climate action is not just about one hour of darkness. It is about what we do after the lights come back on. This is not just about turning off the lights. This is about giving life to our hopes and dreams for our country,” Borje said. Anchored on this year’s themed focus, “Switch On Habits for Earth,” the CCC underscored the importance of integrating climate-conscious practices into daily life, such as conserving energy, reducing waste, avoiding single-use plastics, and planting and taking care of trees. The Commission further highlighted that climate change is not only a lifestyle concern but a systems issue, requiring coordinated action from individuals, communities, government, and the private sector. “This is why climate action today, particularly through the youth, should no longer be just an advocacy. It really should be a life that we are going to live,” Borje added. The CCC reaffirmed its commitment to advancing policies and programs that promote climate action and sustainable development, in line with national priorities and global climate targets. As the country observed Earth Hour, the Commission called on every Filipino to take part in building a climate-resilient and low-carbon future by making climate action a daily responsibility.

The Climate Change Commission (CCC) gathered stakeholders for the Nationally Determined Contribution consultation ahead of the submission of its updated version to the UNFCCC. The hybrid session was held at the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development office in Quezon City, with some participants also joining online via Zoom. MANILA – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) convened stakeholders to refine the Philippines’ updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) ahead of its submission to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).  CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje underscored the importance of the consultation in ensuring coherence and readiness for implementation. “This NDC reflects a one-country team approach: A whole-of-government alignment in policy and planning, a whole-of-economy approach to analysis and the mobilization of investment and systems, and a whole-of-society engagement that keeps our actions grounded and credible,” Borje said. The draft NDC 2026 text—developed by national government agencies—was presented to stakeholders from civil society organizations, marginalized groups, academia, private sector and development partners. The consultation aimed to validate its clarity and technical soundness and to identify remaining gaps ahead of submission. Borje also said the updated NDC strengthens several elements needed for implementation.  “Importantly, this updated NDC integrates elements that enable delivery—just transition considerations, strengthened climate finance and other means of implementation, nature-based solutions, and more robust systems for transparency and monitoring.” CCC Commissioner Rachel Anne S. Herrera said the consultation inputs would be reviewed and reflected in the final text. “Today’s consultation makes clear that the direction we are taking is being tested against real conditions on the ground. The NDC is being shaped by the very people and institutions who will help carry it forward,” Herrera said. John Leo Algo of Aksyon Klima, a civil society organization, said this year’s NDC consultations showed progress in transparency and inclusivity. "More consultations were held by the CCC and other agencies nationwide, and we from civil society also conducted our own to ensure more voices are brought to the policymaking table. While improvements such as timelier communications and feedback on how stakeholder inputs are integrated into the document should be made, this was a step in the right direction towards a 'whole-of-society' approach to climate action." The NDC serves as the country’s roadmap for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and strengthening climate action. In its 2021 submission, the Philippines committed to a projected 75 percent emissions reduction and avoidance from 2020 to 2030. The targets cover key sectors and their responsible agencies. Energy is led by the Department of Energy (DOE); transport by the Department of Transportation (DOTr); industrial processes and product use, waste, and forest and other land use by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR); and agriculture by the Department of Agriculture (DA). The NDC 2026 is co-led by the CCC and DENR, in coordination with national government agencies and development partners. The event convened over 200 participants through a hybrid format, bringing together representatives from 14 national government agencies, 22 development partners, 35 civil society organizations and non-profit organizations, 5 academic institutions, 3 marginalized groups, and 26 private sector entities—reflecting a broad, whole-of-society consultation.  The NDC advances the priorities of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for a climate-smart and climate-resilient Philippines, supporting the country’s transition toward low-carbon development, strengthened climate resilience, and inclusive economic growth. The CCC remains committed to an inclusive and transparent process in finalizing the country’s NDC, to ensure a credible and workable climate action pathway for the Philippines.  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) convenes stakeholders and development partners during the first organizational meeting of the Gender and Climate Change Advisory Group. MANILA — In a decisive move to ensure that climate action benefits all Filipinos equitably, the Climate Change Commission (CCC), in partnership with national agencies and development partners, has formally launched the organizational phase for the implementation of the Philippines' Nationally Determined Contribution Gender Action Plan (NDC-GAP) 2024–2030. This milestone was marked by the inaugural meeting of the Gender and Climate Change Advisory Group (GCAG), a multi-sectoral body tasked with steering the Plan into concrete action.   The GCAG is co-chaired by CCC Commissioner Rachel Anne S. Herrera, Undersecretary Analiza Rebuelta-Teh of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and Deputy Executive Director Anita E. Baleda of the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW). The meeting convened a broad coalition of core agencies, including the Department of Agriculture (DA), the Department of Energy (DOE), and the Department of Transportation (DOTr), alongside partner agencies such as the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev). Providing critical support for this endeavor are development partners, including the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB), with technical assistance led by the Miriam College - Women and Gender Institute (MC-WAGI).   The GCAG meeting successfully forged a unified implementation strategy for the six-year plan, clarified member roles and responsibilities, and identified immediate priority actions to sustain momentum across all government levels. Officials underscored the profound importance of this coordinated action. "The implementation of the NDC GAP marks an important step for the Philippines. It moves us from mere recognition that climate change is not gender neutral, to concrete action, by putting gender and social inclusion squarely into how we plan, implement, monitor, and improve our climate actions,” highlighted by Commissioner Herrera.   The operationalization of the NDC-GAP through the GCAG ensures that our climate policies and investments actively work to reduce systemic inequalities and empower the most vulnerable sectors of our society. Echoing this sentiment, PCW Deputy Executive Director Baleda stated, “[...] Our work must extend beyond dialogue. This platform should catalyze concrete, institutionalized actions that strengthen gender-responsive climate governance across agencies and sectors. The PCW remains steadfast in its commitment to provide policy guidance and advisory support in advancing inclusive climate action.”   Providing a sectoral perspective, Undersecretary Rebuelta-Teh defined the GCAG formation as a strategic move that will concretely impact NDC actions. "We are equally vigilant in tracking the implementation plan for the Agriculture, Forestry, and Other Land Uses (AFOLU) sector, which is another critical component of our NDC." In closing, Mr. Gautier Singh-Kohler, Deputy Country Director for the Philippines at the Agence Française de Développement, reaffirmed AFD’s full support for the initiative while reiterating that the work should not create an undue administrative burden. Instead, he underscored the importance of harmonizing and strengthening existing accountability systems, with particular emphasis on fostering greater convergence between adaptation and mitigation streams. He concluded that the initiative is "not only a platform for accountability, but also a strategic platform where gender can be mainstreamed and pushed towards all the different streams of government work."   Looking ahead, the GCAG will prioritize the finalization of its membership composition and operational guidelines, complete a comprehensive stakeholder mapping exercise, and initiate capacity-building sessions for designated GAD Focal Points across all member agencies. These foundational activities will pave the way for the development of gender-responsive policy guidance and the establishment of robust monitoring tools to track progress and financing for gender and climate action at both the national and local levels. “The NDC GAP will only be as effective as the relationships and trust we build across institutions. The GCAG is a space for that—to surface challenges early, align policies and tools, and learn from each other as we move forward. We look forward to working closely with all of you as we collectively advance the implementation of the NDC GAP from 2024 to 2030,” CCC Commissioner Herrera said. This will ensure that the NDC-GAP delivers on its commitment to support President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. administration’s vision of an inclusive and climate-resilient future for the Philippines.