MANILA, 17 November 2021 — The 71st episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways,” will once again feature initiatives of organizations that  help communities adapt to climate change and work to improve the lives of Filipinos.   The online conversation, conceptualized and hosted by three-term former Senator, now Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, will air on Thursday, 18 November 2021, 10:00 AM via Facebook Live at facebook.com/CCCPhl and facebook.com/iamlorenlegarda. Two lucky viewers can win tablets by tuning in throughout the program.   Joining the online conversation are Ryan Gersava, Founder and President of Virtualahan; Sarah Queblatin, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Green Releaf Initiative; and Engr. Cle Bern Paglinawan, Provincial Tourism Officer from the Province of Siquijor.   Climate change is the single biggest threat to sustainable development. Urgent climate action is essential to meet all Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as eradicating poverty and hunger, ensuring inclusive economic growth, and protecting ecosystems.   The upcoming episode will feature organizations that are helping communities specifically on digital skills for persons with disabilities, zero waste and upcycling programs, and regenerative agriculture.   As an online discussion to promote health, environmental consciousness, and climate-adaptive practices, "Stories for a Better Normal" aims to change the mindset of individuals, families, and communities by demonstrating ways in which a ‘better normal’ can be realized within our communities.   This online discussion is organized in partnership between the Office of Deputy Speaker Legarda and the Climate Change Commission, with support from the Department of Education, Philippine Information Agency, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, The Climate Reality Project-Philippines and Mother Earth Foundation.

MAYNILA, ika-17 ng Nobyembre 2021 — Muling itatampok sa ika-71 na episode ng seryeng "Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways,” ang mga organisasyong may mga simulaing tumulong sa ating mga pamayanan upang labanan ang climate change at mapabuti ang buhay ng bawat Pilipino.   Ang online na talakayan, na hango sa konsepto at pangunguna ng  three-term Senator, na ngayo’y Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, ay ipapalabas sa Huwebes, ika-18 ng Nobyembre 2021, 10:00 AM via Facebook Live sa facebook.com/CCCPhl at facebook.com/iamlorenlegarda. Dalawang masuwerteng manonood ang maaaring manalo ng tablet sa  pag-tune in sa buong programa.   Kasama sa online discussion sina Ryan Gersava, Founder at President ng Virtualahan; Sarah Queblatin, Co-Founder at Executive Director ng Green Releaf Initiative; at Engr. Cle Bern Paglinawan, Provincial Tourism Officer ng Provincial Government of Siquijor.   Ang climate change ay ang pinakamalaking banta sa sustenableng pag-unlad. Mahalaga ang agarang climate action upang makamit ang lahat ng Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) tulad ng pagpuksa sa kahirapan at kagutuman, ang pagsisiguro sa pangkalahatang economic growth, at ang pagprotekta sa mga ecosystem.   Pag-uusapan sa episode ang mga programa para sa mga persons with disabilities, zero waste at upcycling programs, pati na regenerative agriculture.   Bilang isang online na talakayan upang maisulong ang kamalayang pang-kapaligiran, at mga kasanayan sa paghahanda sa nagbabagong klima, naglalayon ang “Stories for a Better Normal” na baguhin ang kaisipan ng bawat Pilipino, mga pamilya at pamayanan sa pamamagitan ng pagpapakita ng mga paraan kung paano maisasakatuparan ang ‘better normal’ sa loob ng ating mga pamayanan.   Ang online na talakayan na ito ay na-organisa sa pagtutulungan ng tanggapan ni Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda at Climate Change Commission, na binigyang-suporta naman ng Department of Education, Philippine Information Agency, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, The Climate Reality Project-Philippines at Mother Earth Foundation. 

MANILA, 16 November 2021 — In continuation of its COP26 Series, the 70th episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways” put spotlight to several organizations that are helping communities in the areas of water security, agriculture and food security, and waste and plastic pollution towards enhanced global climate action.   The online conversation conceptualized and hosted by three-term Senator, now Deputy Speaker and Antique Representative Loren Legarda, with CCC Commissioner Rachel Anne S. Herrera as co-host, featured guests including Jenica Dizon, Country Director of Waves for Water Philippines; Hazel Tanchuling, Executive Director of Rice Watch Action Network (R1); and Carlos Hechanova, co-Executive Director for Operations of makesense Philippines.   Ms. Dizon introduced Waves for Water Philippines, a humanitarian aid organization that focuses on providing clean water access to underserved communities.   “Ang climate change o ang sinasabing krisis sa klima ay primarily nararamdaman natin sa tubig. Either napakarami or binabaha tayo, or napaka-kaunti o meron tayong nararamdamang tagtuyot. Nakakaapekto ito hindi lang sa ating health o kalugusan, kundi maging sa ating pananim at food security. 'Yung kakainin natin ay maaapektuhan din. Kapag ang extreme weather events ay dumalas nang dumalas, maaapektuhan din ang ating mga trabaho, bahay, imprastraktura, pati na rin ‘yung pang-araw-araw nating pamumuhay,” said Dizon.   Ms. Tanchuling introduced Rice Watch Action Network (R1), a non-government organization that helps capacitate local communities and local government units through different projects and capacity-building activities, such as the Climate Resiliency Field School program, to promote sustainable livelihood and community resilience.   “We have the Climate-Resiliency Field School, at kakambal nito ang pag-capacitate ng local governments sa localization of climate services. We also assist in action community resiliency building and community organizing, at para ma-mainstream ‘yung climate-resilient agriculture in local government plans ay ina-assist din namin ang mga LGU in LCCAP formulation and enhancement, including ‘yung pagkakaroon nila ng agriculture and fisheries plans,” said Tanchuling.   Mr. Hechanova introduced makesense Philippines, an organization that promotes incubation and innovation for early stage social startups, especially in the field of plastics management.   “Ang pangarap namin is basically to see that every actor in the society is part of creating social and environmental change. Working on the climate emergency is not something that should be limited to certain organizations and certain actors. We should all be taking climate action together as a community, because it's a human problem,” said Hechanova.   Legarda lauded the climate initiatives of the guest organizations that are aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She underscored the need to carry out climate change adaptation and mitigation (CCAM), disaster risk reduction (DRR), and environmental conservation at all levels—from global down to national to local level and even to the smallest community—to ensure a more holistic approach towards resilience and sustainability.   "I'm proud that in my three terms as a Senator, even before the SDGs were implemented, the laws, programs, and policies that I wrote, implemented, and funded as Chair of the Senate Committee of Finance fall under the 17 SDGs. The challenge now is to make sure that we save a life, make sure that we roll it out to every LGU, and we make sure that every local chief executive understands all these laws, programs, and SDGs. Now is the time where we choose between extinction or survival," Legarda emphasized.   As an online discussion to promote health, environmental consciousness, and climate-adaptive practices, "Stories for a Better Normal" aims to change the mindset of individuals, families, and communities by demonstrating ways in which a ‘better normal’ can be realized within our communities.   This online discussion is organized in partnership between the Office of Deputy Speaker Legarda and the Climate Change Commission, with support from the Department of Education, Philippine Information Agency, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, The Climate Reality Project-Philippines and Mother Earth Foundation.

MANILA, 10 November 2021 — Deputy Speaker and Antique Representative Loren Legarda, House Committee on Climate Change Chair and Bohol 1st District Representative Edgar Chatto, and Kabataan Partylist Representative Sarah Elago underscored the goals of the Philippines at the ongoing climate talks in Glasgow, Scotland for the 26th Conference of the Parties (COP26) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).   World leaders have reconvened for COP26, after a year of postponement due to the pandemic, to accelerate the implementation of the Paris Agreement. Department of Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez, who is also the designated chairperson of the Climate Change Commission (CCC), leads the Philippine delegation.   In her privilege speech, Legarda discussed what the Philippines must push COP26 to deliver “if it is to be a summit of survival,” including securing a concrete delivery plan for the USD500 billion promised by developed countries, advancing action on the area of Loss and Damage, pushing emissions avoidance, and seeking more ambitious national climate targets around the world.   “The Parties at COP26 must agree on a clear and concrete delivery plan for the annual USD100 billion over five years pledged by developed countries to developing ones from 2020 to 2024—after which we expect the amount to increase,” Legarda said, adding that this pledge will help developing countries build their capacity to reduce emissions and adapt to the intensifying impacts of climate change.   “These twelve days of climate talks could well be the world’s best last chance to get runaway climate change under control. Today, November 8, the nation also commemorates the eighth anniversary of Supertyphoon Yolanda. Indeed, this climate summit is a make-or-break for the most vulnerable countries,” Legarda also said.   Rep. Chatto explained that our delegation hopes to get the finalization of rules for Article 6 of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, which involve modalities and procedures for implementing cooperative approaches between developed and developing countries.   “Our delegates need to ensure that developed countries will finally move with urgency to deliver on their commitments in terms of the Paris Agreement’s means of implementation, that is, through climate finance, technology transfer, and capacity building from developed countries to developing ones,” Chatto said.   “Without these, our country will not be able to develop the capacity and technical know-how we need to avoid greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and we will not be able to survive the worsening impacts of climate change,” he added.   Rep. Elago also expressed support to the call for accelerated actions to address planetary emergency and climate crisis, as well as to uphold climate justice.   “Ang Pilipinas ang isa po sa pinaka-vulnerable, pinaka-apektado ng climate crisis sa buong mundo, ngunit tayo rin po ang isa sa may pinakamaliit na kontribusyon sa CO2 (carbon dioxide) emissions. Kaya nanawagan tayo na nawa’y di manatili sa mga papel, sa mga manifesto ‘yung mga commitment ng ating mga leaders kundi makita talaga natin ‘yan sa mga pagbabago sa ating mga kasalukuyang patakaran at legislation,” Rep. Elago said.   COP26 is hosted by the United Kingdom and is taking place in Glasgow from October 31 to November 12, 2021. The summit brings world leaders together to accelerate action towards the goals of the Paris Agreement and the UNFCCC.

MANILA, 10 November 2021 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) highlights the importance of environmental education in strengthening climate action, in celebration of National Environmental Awareness Month this November.   Republic Act No. 9512 or the National Environmental Awareness and Education Act of 2008, coauthored by three-term Senator Loren Legarda, declares the month of November as Environmental Awareness Month.   Environmental education, according to the law, encompasses environmental concepts and principles, environmental laws, the state of international and local environment, local environmental best practices, the threats of environmental degradation and its impact on human well-being, the responsibility of the citizenry to the environment and the value of conservation, protection and rehabilitation of natural resources and the environment.   The law also mandates the integration of environmental education in school curricula at all levels, whether public or private, including in barangay daycare, preschool, non-formal, technical vocational, professional level, indigenous learning and out-of school youth courses or programs.   As the climate crisis continues to prevail, the CCC urges all agencies of government, academe, youth groups, and relevant stakeholders to strengthen information, education and communication programs, activities, and projects about the environment and the science of climate change, to bring all sectors and citizens together in protecting, restoring and enhancing our planet.   Aside from conventional classroom learning, the Commission encourages the public, especially the youth, to lead on spreading awareness about the state of our climate and promote simple, easy-to-do climate action, such as tree planting; waste reduction, segregation, recycling and composting; and marine and forest management and conservation.

MANILA, 10 November 2021 — The 70th episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways,” will feature organizations and initiatives that are helping communities adapt to climate change and work to improve the lives of Filipinos.   The online conversation, conceptualized and hosted by three-term former Senator, now Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, will air on Thursday, 11 November 2021, 10:00 AM via Facebook Live at facebook.com/CCCPhl and facebook.com/iamlorenlegarda. Two lucky viewers can win tablets by tuning in throughout the program.   Joining the online conversation are Jenica Dizon, Country Director of Waves for Water Philippines; Hazel Tanchuling, Executive Director of Rice Watch Action Network (R1); and Carlos Hechanova, co-Executive Director for Operations of makesense Philippines.   Climate change is the single biggest threat to sustainable development. Urgent climate action is essential to meet all Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as eradicating poverty and hunger, providing safe water, ensuring healthy lives, and protecting ecosystems. COP26 presents an opportunity for the global community to accelerate action to fight climate change and build a sustainable future.   The upcoming episode will highlight organizations helping communities in the areas of water security, agriculture and food security, and waste and plastic pollution towards enhanced global climate action.   As an online discussion to promote health, environmental consciousness, and climate-adaptive practices, "Stories for a Better Normal" aims to change the mindset of individuals, families, and communities by demonstrating ways in which a ‘better normal’ can be realized within our communities.   This online discussion is organized in partnership between the Office of Deputy Speaker Legarda and the Climate Change Commission, with support from the Department of Education, Philippine Information Agency, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, The Climate Reality Project-Philippines and Mother Earth Foundation.

TAKIP (cover in English) explores the feasibility of using wax from taro leaf (Alocasia macrorrhizos) as a for reusable face mask fabric to repel water. This can protect users from getting COVID-19 from droplets of water. Photo from the presentation of Kiara Raye Cartojano, inventor of Takip. MANILA, 9 November 2021 — In continuation of its COP26 Youth Series, the 69th episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways” once again highlighted the exemplary innovation of young Filipina innovators and advocacy campaigns of young leaders on climate change adaptation and mitigation.   The online conversation conceptualized and hosted by three-term Senator, now Deputy Speaker and Antique Representative Loren Legarda, with CCC Commissioner Rachel Anne S. Herrera as co-host, featured young inventors and climate advocates, including Engr. Aisa Mijeno, Inventor and Co-Founder of Sustainable Alternative Lighting (SALt); Kiara Cartojano, Inventor of Takip (Taro Leaf Wax coating for reusable face mask fabric); Engr. Angelica Anne Munar, an International Eco-Concrete Competition Awardee; and Engr. Danielle Madriaga, Coordinator for The Climate Reality Project Philippines.   “The youth will continue to drive the climate ambition that we need to have as a global community, and the youth will always continue to keep the governments and decision-makers accountable. We hope for the Philippine delegation to deliver, to bring home what we really need here, the support, financing, technology, for us to be successful in limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius,” said Comm. Herrera.   The first three guests shared their outstanding innovations, such as the Sustainable Alternative Lighting (SALt), a sustainable lamp powered by salt water; Eco-concrete made from recycled materials such as fly ash and waste glass combined with pozzolanic tuff; and Takip, a reusable face mask that uses Taro Leaf Wax as a hydrophobic coating for its fabric.   “We need to get ourselves involved because we are all going to be affected by climate change. Accessing of information, learning of what’s happening around is no longer an option, it is an obligation, not just for the youth, but for all of us. Moving and taking part in the solution should be our commitment, not just as a citizen of this country but also as an inhabitant of this world,” said Engr. Mijeno.   “What we can do as a youth is to be responsible for sharing climate information and awareness. Yung mga small actions po, like supporting local businesses that advocate for sustainability, that’s what the youth can also do in addressing the climate problem,” said Cartojano.   "Being eco-friendly does not only talking about shifting material decisions, it is also important to think about everything holistically, about your choices as a whole. Learning is actually limitless, but I believe leadership and sustainability should also be limitless,” said Engr Munar.   Engr. Madriaga, meanwhile, shared her journey as a Climate Reality Leader, the importance of green buildings, and the role of youth in the ongoing climate negotiations in Glasgow.   "To my fellow youth - Take this opportunity to be engaged because this is a critical decade for climate action. No matter where you are, no matter what you are doing, there's always something you can contribute. Take inspiration from the amazing youth innovators and leaders who were able to find a way to contribute in their own fields, and join us in manifesting a better reality, a better normal for all of us,” said Engr. Madriaga.   As a way of supporting young innovators, Deputy Speaker Legarda suggested for all their invention to be transmitted and proposed to the Department of Science and Technology for patenting.   "Lahat ng inventions ng ating mga kabataan ay dapat na mai-share sa DOST Community Empowerment thru Science and Technology (CEST) program at i-adopt, para hindi mawala sa kanila. May mga inventions sila, ngunit busy sa eskwela o walang pondong kapital, kaya nakakalimutan na, sayang lang. Now that we are doing the budget, we can provide an endorsement funding under the DOST-CEST," Deputy Speaker Legarda said.   As an online discussion to promote health, environmental consciousness, and climate-adaptive practices, "Stories for a Better Normal" aims to change the mindset of individuals, families, and communities by demonstrating ways in which a ‘better normal’ can be realized within our communities.   This online discussion is organized in partnership between the Office of Deputy Speaker Legarda and the Climate Change Commission, with support from the Department of Education, Philippine Information Agency, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, The Climate Reality Project-Philippines and Mother Earth Foundation. 

MANILA, 8 November 2021 — The Climate Change Commission joins the nation in commemoration of the 8th anniversary of the devastation of Super Typhoon Yolanda (international name: Haiyan) today, November 8, and calls for stronger anticipatory adaptation action to protect the lives of Filipinos as climate risks worsen.   “Eight years on, Yolanda remains a powerful reminder to strengthen our anticipatory adaptation measures to protect Filipinos amid worsening climate risks, and make sure they and future generations will not have to suffer like our people did in 2013,” said the Commission.   This year’s commemoration comes as the world is in deep talks at the 26th Conference of Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in Glasgow, Scotland. COP26 has been touted as a critical climate summit, especially with the past decade emerging as the warmest on record and with more extreme weather events including typhoons, heatwaves, floods, and forest fires worsening all over the world because of the effects of climate change—effects that disproportionately impact climate-vulnerable countries like the Philippines.   The climate body said that “The latest climate science shows that the coming climate change impacts can be even more frequent and more severe for vulnerable countries like the Philippines, ranked as 4th in the 2021 Global Climate Risk Index of countries most affected by climate-related disasters in the last decade. To be proactive in protecting the lives and livelihoods of Filipinos at the local level, we must build up scientific knowledge on local hazards in our communities to develop risk-adaptive measures. For every coastal community, we must know the risk of storm surge that may go inland and submerge homes, farmland, and other properties. Early warning systems will only be effective if they are actionable, and this means they must consist of understandable information down to the last mile."   Anticipatory or proactive adaptation refers to measures that must take place even before the impacts of climate change are observed, instead of simply reacting to them. Aside from building knowledge on local hazards and strengthening early warning systems, other possible measures include setting new building codes and design standards to address likely hazards, providing incentives for relocating and retrofitting, purchasing insurance and other social protection to cushion losses and unemployment, and adjusting housing conditions to extreme weather events.   Reports from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council estimate that Yolanda, which made a total of six landfalls from November 8, 2013, affected over 16 million and displaced 5.1 million people, and caused over P95 billion in damages. One of the strongest tropical cyclones in world recorded history, it left 6,300 dead, more than 1,000 missing, and over 28,000 injured in all affected areas.

MANILA, 3 November 2021 — The 69th episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways,” will once again feature Filipino youth innovators and leaders and their innovations and advocacy campaigns on climate change adaptation and mitigation to inspire more youth to innovate toward a healthy, resilient, and sustainable future.   The online conversation, conceptualized and hosted by three-term former Senator, now Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, will air on Thursday, 4 November 2021, 10:00 AM via Facebook Live at facebook.com/CCCPhl and facebook.com/iamlorenlegarda. Two lucky viewers can win tablets by tuning in throughout the program.   Joining the online conversation are Engr. Aisa Mejino, Inventor and Co-Founder of Sustainable Alternative Lighting (SALt); Engr. Angelica Anne Munar, an International Eco-Concrete Competition Awardee; Kiara Cartojano, Inventor of Takip (Taro Leaf Wax coating for reusable face mask fabric); and Engr. Danielle Madriaga, Coordinator for The Climate Reality Project Philippines.   The youth are leading the charge on climate action. As nations gather to step up climate ambition at the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP26), the voice of the youth on the need for urgent climate solutions should be amplified. Countries must redouble efforts to support the youth who are working for disaster risk reduction, climate change adaptation and mitigation, and environmental sustainability.   The upcoming episode shall recognize the Filipino youth innovators and grassroots leaders, to encourage and inspire their fellow youth to be the innovators of the future and contribute to the mitigation of climate change.   As an online discussion to promote health, environmental consciousness, and climate-adaptive practices, "Stories for a Better Normal" aims to change the mindset of individuals, families, and communities by demonstrating ways in which a ‘better normal’ can be realized within our communities.   This online discussion is organized in partnership between the Office of Deputy Speaker Legarda and the Climate Change Commission, with support from the Department of Education, Philippine Information Agency, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, The Climate Reality Project-Philippines and Mother Earth Foundation.

MANILA, 3 November 2021 — The Climate Change Commission, in partnership with the Oscar M. Lopez Center, has launched the second Klima Film Festival (KFF) 2021 with the theme, “Adapting for a Sustainable Future: Stepping Up Local Climate Action in a Post-Pandemic World” as it aims to reach  young filmmakers and mobilize them as communicators on the importance of scaling up local climate action.   This year’s KFF specifically focuses on harnessing the potential of films in building awareness and understanding of the climate crisis, and driving action to address its causes and impacts; urging the youth in amplifying the importance of local climate solutions to further increase their influence on local climate policy-making, and generating local climate adaptation stories as viewed by young Filipino filmmakers by providing venue for the production and promotion of climate science-based short films.   In the digital launch held October 29, the CCC and OMLC welcomed the interested youth participants and introduced the mechanics of the film festival.   “On this second year of KFF, I am confident that our youth will make us proud again. Give all your best. Let your creativity flow and shine through. And make a world of difference in building a healthier, safer, and more secure future for all Filipinos,” said CCC Secretary Emmanuel M. De Guzman.   “I'm looking forward to the entries for this year's Klima Film Festival. The youth is the future, not just of our nation, but of the planetary climate. You will inherit the climate, and to a large degree, you are also influencing what the future climate will be. Therefore, your voice is so important in this conversation,” said OML Center Executive Director Dr. Rodel D. Lasco.   “As one of the members of the youth who have the dedication, the resiliency or have the ability to adapt to change, our love for making different films were affected too by the pandemic.  However, let's remember, fellow youth, that if one door has closed, there's always hope that it will open a new opportunity to come,” said Jerome Pineda of Aquarian Eye Media, who was awarded last year for Best Film for his KFF entry ‘Our World’.   “This prestigious event will not just showcase the talents of the youth, but enables them to learn more about climate change in their locality and translate it into a creative way. By this, the youth will become the tool to educate the people about what we can do to have a sustainable future, and how much time we have left, that we have to move, and that we have to take responsibility as it is all in our hands,” said Mikone Joshua Calungsod of Ang Maharlika Productions, winner of the KFF 2020 Second Best Film for "Verdant."   Chairperson Mary Liza B. Diño of the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), and Mr. Butch Ibañez, Vice Head of the National Committee on Cinema of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, were present to support the launch.   “We need loud, energetic, aggressive voices to disturb the downturn and talk about saving rather than wasting. Like Greta Thunberg, KFF and its young invested filmmakers are now about to join this revolution," said Chair Diño.   “The best part of watching any films is what comes right after. The impact. To all the filmmakers, may your films shine a light into array, a spark may be small but within us all, it can be mighty,” said Mr. Ibañez.   The youth participants also joined the General Assembly – the first of the two-part learning workshops for the KFF, where the rationale of the KFF theme, contest mechanics, forms, and gender considerations were discussed.   For the next steps, participants are expected to submit their film concept or synopsis and their team information through the Official Registration of the KFF which can be accessed through this link https://bit.ly/KFF2021TeamRegistration to proceed to the  Climate Film Labs.   Each Climate Film Lab will involve science and film mentors who shall guide the teams on the technical soundness of storytelling and the craft of filmmaking.   For more details about the Klima Film Festival, visit the official Facebook pages of the Climate Change Commission and Oscar M. Lopez Center at https://www.facebook.com/CCCPhl and https://www.facebook.com/OMLopezCenter.   To access the 2020 KFF winners and entries, contact the KFF Secretariat at [email protected].   

Photo from the World Meteorological Organization MANILA, 2 November 2021 — The 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) officially starts this week, with the primary goal of increasing ambition and enhancing the Paris Agreement's implementation guidelines to keep the goal of limiting global average temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius within reach.   COP26 President Alok Sharma, MP of the United Kingdom, vowed to move the negotiations forward by resolving the outstanding issues, promoting opportunities for green growth, green jobs, and cheaper, cleaner energy, and launching a decade of every increasing ambition and action.   “The rapidly changing climate is sounding an alarm to the world, to step up on adaptation, to address loss and damage, and to act now to keep 1.5C alive. We know that this COP, COP26, is our last best hope to keep 1.5C in reach, and I know that we have an unprecedented negotiations agenda ahead of us. But I believe, this international system can deliver,” said Sharma.   United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Executive Secretary Patricia Espinosa called upon the Parties to complete the necessary work towards the full implementation of the Paris Agreement. Aside from lowering greenhouse gas emissions, the Paris Agreement should prioritize adaptation agenda, address loss and damage from extreme weather events, and increase the provision of support to developing countries.   “We need to significantly increase financial support, especially for the most vulnerable countries. We also need to accelerate the development and implementation of National Adaptation Plans. A clear path to solutions exists. I call upon all Parties to recapture the spirit of multilateralism that resulted in the adoption of the Paris Agreement and fulfill their commitments under it,” said Espinosa.   Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Chairperson Dr. Hoesung Lee highlighted the importance of science in shaping government policies. Prior to the COP, the IPCC released in August the first part of its ongoing Sixth Assessment Report, which laid out the most up-to-date physical science basis for the understanding of the climate system and climate change.   “I encourage everyone to seize the moment, seize the opportunity this gathering offers. We, the scientific community, are ready to work with you on the understanding of scientific evidence of climate change, its impacts and adaptions and how these translate into realities of climate action,” said Dr. Lee.   76th UN General Assembly President Abdulla Shahid echoed the key messages from the membership of the General Assembly, which include accelerating efforts to ensure that all countries have access to the latest technological innovations; ensure that monetary pledges to net-zero targets are utilized, prioritized, or measured; ensure 50/50 split, in adaptation and mitigation financing; and lead the youth towards blue and green economies.   “Only one variable remains, and it is us. We have to make the choice to address climate change. We have to choose the hard but necessary actions. We have to listen to the science and, increasingly, our global population, who are demanding action,” said Shahid.   Coinciding with the opening of COP26 is the release of the provisional ‘State of the Global Climate 2021’ by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). The report draws from the latest scientific evidence to show how the planet is changing “before our eyes.”   The study provides a snapshot of climate indicators such as greenhouse gas concentrations, temperatures, extreme weather, sea level, ocean warming and ocean acidification, glacier retreat and ice melt, as well as socio-economic impacts.   The report finds that the past seven years, including 2021, are likely to be the warmest on record as greenhouse gases reached record concentrations in the atmosphere. Moreover, global sea level rise accelerated to a new high in 2021, with continued ocean warming and ocean acidification.   Based on the data from the months of January to September of this year, the global mean temperature was about 1.09°C above the 1850-1900 average. This may place 2021 as the sixth or seventh warmest year on record globally. But the ranking may change at the end of the year.   Following the release of the report, the Philippines, through the statement of Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr., asked the developed and industrialized countries “to absorb the brunt of hard solutions” and “help those will less capacity, who even now are taking as much of the brunt as they can, without equivocation or purpose of evasion.”   The 26th Session of the Conference of the Parties to the UNFCCC or #COP26 is a global gathering to adopt an action plan for all countries to tackle the climate crisis together. It takes place from October 31 to November 12 in Glasgow, Scotland. To know the latest updates about the COP26, visit https://ukcop26.org/.

Pili Seal is a new product innovation of sealant for aircraft integral fuel tank made from the waste of Pili Tree Resin which is also called as “spent resin” or “de-oiled resin”. It was hailed as the 2021 National Winner of the Philippine James Dyson Award. Photo from the presentation of Mark Kennedy Bantugon, the inventor of Pili Seal. MANILA, 2 November 2021 — The 68th episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways” highlighted the exemplary innovation of young Filipino scientists and advocacy campaigns of young leaders on climate change adaptation and mitigation.   The online conversation conceptualized and hosted by three-term Senator, now Deputy Speaker and Antique Representative Loren Legarda, with Atty. Ipat Luna and CCC Commissioner Rachel Anne S. Herrera as co-hosts, featured guests including Mark Kennedy Bantugon, Inventor of Pili Seal and James Dyson Awardee 2021; Naiah Mendoza, Co-inventor of Project FEET and World Robot Olympiad Canada 2020-X Awardee; Adelle Yuson, a physicist from Central Mindanao University; and Marinel Ubaldo, a Climate Reality Leader and the Advocacy Officer for Ecological Justice and Youth Engagement of Living Laudato Si’ Philippines.                                                             Legarda urged the national and world leaders to support young scientists, youth leaders, and young environmental innovators who are working on disaster risk reduction, climate change adaptation and mitigation, and environmental sustainability, and hear their voices in calling for climate justice.   "I hope that the youth's presence in Glasgow will really deliver the message of climate justice. We did not cause it, we are 0.3% emitter in global greenhouse gas emissions in the world, but we bear the brunt. But we must not wallow in pity or poverty, because we can do something, not just to mitigate or to reduce our use of fossil fuels, but also to adapt. As Global Champion for Adaptation, my advocacy is to share climate-adaptive practices to the youth, to the agriculture sector, to the business and industry sector, and to everybody,” said Legarda.   The first three guests shared their outstanding innovations, most of which are made from waste materials.   “I want to share not only my invention, but most importantly, its authentic message and intention in sustainable advocacy. I want to introduce a new perspective that a specific waste material, like Pili Tree resin, can give a new function which is beneficial to our community,” said Bantugon.   "Yung project FEET po, more than creating it for the sake of winning the competition, mas importante po na makatulong tayo sa ibang tao at sa ating mundo. Kaya palaging pinaaalala sa amin na everytime na may sasalihan kami, hindi lang dapat mag-isip para sa sarili lang namin, habang bata pa ay magtulungan tayo para in the future, mapigilan natin yung damaging effects ng climate change na nakakaalarma po talaga ngayon,” said Mendoza.   “Being exposed to various experiences allowed me to strive for sustainability, and being a physicist, I am proud to say that from climate to energy, physics has been key to the most pressing issues. I hope that our researchers and scientists would be able to get out of the lab and make it happen for people to enjoy and help make this world a better place to live in,” said Yuson.   Ms. Ubaldo, meanwhile, shared her experiences in mainstreaming climate change issues in her hometown in Samar and their organization’s advocacy in fighting for climate justice.   "In our manifesto during the Youth4Climate: Driving Ambition in Milan, we are requesting countries to ensure the systematic and meaningful engagement by scaling up capacity-building programs and dedicating funds to support the youth participation in decision-making at the multilateral, national, and local levels," said Ubaldo.   As an online discussion to promote health, environmental consciousness, and climate-adaptive practices, "Stories for a Better Normal" aims to change the mindset of individuals, families, and communities by demonstrating ways in which a ‘better normal’ can be realized within our communities.   This online discussion is organized in partnership between the Office of Deputy Speaker Legarda and the Climate Change Commission, with support from the Department of Education, Philippine Information Agency, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, The Climate Reality Project-Philippines and Mother Earth Foundation. 

MANILA, 30 October 2021 — Three-term Senator Loren Legarda emphasized the importance of the upcoming talks at the 26th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in securing the lives and livelihoods of Filipinos amidst the intensifying climate crisis.   “COP26—if it delivers—can help secure the lives and livelihoods of Filipinos today and in the future as we continue to deal with the consequences of global warming. Many climate-vulnerable countries like ours are anxiously waiting for its results,” Legarda said.   Almost 200 nations and territories will finally gather in person in Glasgow, Scotland for 12 days of global climate action talks and negotiation from October 31 to November 12, after the COP was postponed last year because of the pandemic.   Hosted by the United Kingdom in partnership with Italy, COP26 will center on four key themes: securing global net-zero by mid-century and keeping 1.5˚Celsius within reach; urgent adaptation to protect communities and natural habitats; mobilizing finance; and working together to deliver the means of implementation to the Paris Agreement: climate finance, technology transfer, and capacity building from developed countries to developing ones.   This year’s summit has been touted as a critical meet given the need for immediate action to prevent the average global temperature from going beyond 1.5˚C and avert the most catastrophic impacts of climate change. 2021 has also been described by scientists as humanity’s “last best chance” to reduce emissions enough to keep the planet below 1.5˚C.   “This is a make-or-break point for all nations to get their act together and agree on how to effectively implement the Paris Agreement, which is meant to limit global warming and ramp up our ability to adapt to worsening climate risks. Our hope is that COP26 will bring major progress on those fronts,” Legarda concluded.

MANILA, 29 October 2021 —  House Deputy Speaker and Antique Congresswoman expressed support to the launch of the Global Parliamentary Group of the Climate Vulnerable Forum (CVF), a dedicated program for parliamentarians from across the 48 CVF member-states to support one another to fight the climate crisis.   Legarda said that the Global Parliamentary Group should enable the CVF’s call for a Climate Emergency Pact in safeguarding the 1.5 degrees Celsius limit of the Paris Agreement and the delivery of at least $100 billion per year in climate finance or $500 billion until 2024 for developing countries. She also stressed that ambition must be complemented by the right economic and financial support structures to mobilize climate finance flows to our economies.   “Parliaments must challenge and complement the executive departments to dramatically raise climate ambition. If countries historically responsible for the climate crisis won’t act with urgency, we must act in concert to compel them to take responsibility. We must, in parallel, set a path for ourselves to secure a low-carbon and climate resilient future,” Legarda said.   Legarda explained that CVF Global Parliamentary Group lends further impetus to climate action by establishing a dedicated work plan of legislative activities that will help achieve the targets of the Paris Agreement, Sustainable Development Goals, and Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, as well as support planetary prosperity through Climate Prosperity Plans.   The four activity areas for the CVF Global Parliamentary Group include sharing of best practices and knowledge resources to support active collaboration, development of a unified legislative framework and agenda, and international outreach to engage in dialogue with parliaments outside the CVF in order to encourage robust international partnership for climate action.   “Hard-fought development gains and productivity will continue to be undermined or reversed if the 1.5-degrees is breached. We need unprecedented global collaboration. Let us take this global step together through the CVF Global Parliamentary Group,” Legarda concluded.   The CVF is an international partnership of countries highly vulnerable to a warming planet composed of 48 members across  Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Latin America and the Pacific, representing over 1.2 billion people worldwide.   The CVF Global Parliamentary Group launch was moderated by Mr. Saber Chowdhury, Chair of the Bangladesh Parliamentary Committee on the Environment, Forest and Climate Change, and was held in collaboration with the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and the Global Center on Adaptation (GCA). The event gathered support from other world leaders, including former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon; Mr. Hassan Latheef, Chair of the Maldivian Parliament’s General Purpose Committee; IPU Secretary-General Martin Chungong; and Mr. Darren Jones, Chair of the Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Committee of the United Kingdom’s House of Commons.

MANILA, 27 October 2021 — Almost 200 nations and territories will finally gather in-person in Glasgow, Scotland for 12 days of global climate action talks and negotiations, also known as 26th Conference of Parties (COP26) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, after its postponement last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.   Since 1995, the annual climate change conference has brought together delegates around the world led by heads of state, climate experts and negotiators, government ministries, young people, civil society, faith groups, indigenous peoples and even ordinary citizens to forge a global response to keep the temperature rise below dangerous levels and prevent the climate crisis from causing irreversible consequences for the world’s poorest and most vulnerable.   COP26 will be held across two sites: The Scottish Events Campus (SEC), referred to as the Blue Zone, and the Glasgow Science Centre, known as the Green Zone.   The Blue Zone hosts the negotiations. This space brings together delegations from 197 Parties to deliver their statements, stories, and commitments at panel discussions and side events. Meanwhile, the Green Zone is a platform for the general public, youth groups, civil society, academia, artists, business and others to have their voices heard through events, exhibitions, and marches and demonstrations that promote dialogue, awareness, and ambition needed to urgently cut greenhouse gas emissions that have caused the warming of the planet.   Four key themes will run in COP26 are for countries and the world to: ·Secure global net zero by mid-century, and keep 1.5 degrees Celsius within reach; ·Urgently adapt to protect communities and natural habitats; ·Mobilize finance; and ·Work together to deliver the means to implement the Paris Agreement.   This year’s summit is critical as the countries around the world must make an immediate response to prevent the average global temperature from rising more than 1.5 degrees Celsius compared with levels before the Industrial Revolution, and avoid the most catastrophic impacts of climate change.   This year was described by scientists as humanity’s “last best chance” to reduce emissions enough to keep the planet below 1.5 degrees Celsius of warming. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) recently released its Working Group 1 report, “Climate Change 2021: The Physical Science Basis 2021,” which shows that the global greenhouse gas emissions are at an all-time high due to human activities.   More extreme weather events are taking place all over the world - including typhoons, heatwaves, floods and forest fires, which are getting worse because of the effects of climate change. The icecaps are melting and sea levels are rising. The past decade was the warmest on record.   Developing countries like the Philippines tend to emit less and are not responsible for most of the emissions but these countries experience some of the worst effects of climate change.   The CCC expects the upcoming COP to prioritize the following key areas:   Green recovery: COP26 is the first COP since the COVID-19 pandemic. Nations will undoubtedly demand this COP26 to ensure the prioritization of green recovery packages in the global climate ambition. The Philippines, being one of the countries with a high number of COVID-19 cases and vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, expects to give preferential attention in pushing this agenda to ensure our pandemic recovery.   Increased climate ambition: This is the country's first COP with a submitted Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) - which commits to a 75 percent reduction and avoidance of GHG emissions. Moreover, parties are required to submit a new NDC every five years. As it has been five years since the Paris Agreement entered into force, parties are expected to outline their increased climate aspirations on the forthcoming COP, especially from the major carbon emitter countries.   Nature-based Solutions: COP26 will begin discussions on how nature-based solutions, such as ecosystems-based practices, can be a climate solution for absorbing greenhouse gases like carbon from the atmosphere.   Loss and damage mechanism: This refers to providing technical assistance to the countries that are vulnerable and have difficulties to adapt to the impacts of climate change, resulting in the loss of land, livelihoods, among others. As a developing country, the Philippines shall urge developed nations to honor their climate financing commitments. The assistance that the country can obtain from them can be utilized to substantially improve our adaptive capacity and pave the path towards climate resiliency.   The Commission believes that the COP26 will bring major progress since the Paris Agreement and new decisions on how to cut GHG emissions.   For the CCC, the forthcoming COP26 should shed a light on the most vulnerable populations, such as women, children and adolescents, persons with disabilities, the elderly, migrants, and indigenous people, who have contributed little to the climate emergency, but are bearing the brunt of the worst consequences of the climate crisis.

MANILA, 26 October 2021 — Filipino youth scientists and grassroots leaders will gather virtually to feature their innovations and advocacy campaigns on climate change adaptation and mitigation and to inspire fellow youth to advance the frontiers of innovation toward a healthy, resilient, and sustainable future on the 68th episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways COP26 Series" with the theme "Together for a Sustainable Future."   The online conversation, conceptualized and hosted by three-term former Senator, now Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, will air on Thursday, 28 October 2021, 10:00 AM via Facebook Live at facebook.com/CCCPhl and facebook.com/iamlorenlegarda. Two lucky viewers can win tablets by tuning in throughout the program.   Joining the online conversation are Mark Kennedy Bantugon, James Dyson Awardee 2021; Naiah Mendoza, World Robot Olympiad Canada 2020-X Awardee; Adelle Yuson, a physicist from Central Mindanao University; and Marinel Ubaldo, a Climate Reality Leader and the Advocacy Officer for Ecological Justice and Youth Engagement of Living Laudato Si’ Philippines.   The youth are leading the charge on climate action. As nations gather to step up climate ambition at the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climatre Change (COP26), the voice of the youth on the need for urgent climate solutions should be amplified. Countries must redouble efforts to support the youth who are working for disaster risk reduction, climate change adaptation and mitigation, and environmental sustainability.   The upcoming episode shall recognize the Filipino youth scientists and grassroots leaders, to encourage and inspire their fellow youth to be the innovators of the future and contribute to the mitigation of climate change.   As an online discussion to promote health, environmental consciousness, and climate-adaptive practices, "Stories for a Better Normal" aims to change the mindset of individuals, families, and communities by demonstrating ways in which a ‘better normal’ can be realized within our communities.   This online discussion is organized in partnership between the Office of Deputy Speaker Legarda and the Climate Change Commission, with support from the Department of Education, Philippine Information Agency, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, The Climate Reality Project-Philippines and Mother Earth Foundation.

MANILA, 26 October 2021 — Three-term Senator and UNFCCC global champion of resilience Loren Legarda emphasized the need for the upcoming 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) to deliver on the Paris Agreement’s commitments on climate finance if Filipinos are to avoid more greenhouse emissions and survive the intensifying impacts of climate change during a media briefing held Tuesday, October 26 via Zoom.   Legarda gave an opening statement during the Pre-COP26 media briefing convened by the British Embassy Manila, the Embassy of Italy, the United Nations, and the Department of Finance. Newly installed British Ambassador to the Philippines Laure Beaufils also gave an opening statement, along with the DOF and the UN.   “We count on the DOF as head of our national delegation to ensure that developed countries will finally move with urgency to deliver on their commitments in terms of the Paris Agreement’s means of implementation: climate finance, technology transfer, and capacity building from developed countries to developing ones,” Legarda said.   “Without these, the Philippines will not be able to build the capacity and technical know-how we need to avoid more GHG emissions, and we will not be able to survive the intensifying impacts of climate change. The same fate awaits many climate-vulnerable developing countries like us,” she added.   During the briefing, Legarda also emphasized the call of the Climate Vulnerable Forum (CVF)—which she co-founded—for COP26 to finalize and deliver strong carbon market mechanisms. Aside from this, Legarda said COP26 should enable emissions avoidance, a concept introduced by the Philippines in the previous COP, by establishing the eligibility of emissions avoidance activities —which, in effect, would allow the Philippines and other developing countries to assert “our right to the remaining global emissions space without actually emitting them.”   Legarda said the Philippines expects also COP26 to agree on a Delivery Plan for the annual $100 billion over five years, from 2020-2024, pledged by developed countries to vulnerable countries to help them adapt to climate change and mitigate further rises in temperature. Rich nations should have delivered $100 billion already starting last year and by 2025, the $100 billion should start increasing steadily yearly. She also expects COP26 to make action on Loss and Damage integral to its outcome. These will be critical to the implementation of the Philippines’ Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) to the Paris Agreement, which will also be brought forward to COP26.   At the same time, however, Legarda emphasized the need for more ambitious national targets—and for making every budget a climate adaptive budget.   “The country's credibility will be on the line with our NDC as it is. It is virtually a business as usual NDC if over 90% of our pledge remains conditional. We are fooling ourselves. These are big numbers that are empty. It’s a big balloon full of nothing but air. It’s high time to fix this,” she said.   During her opening statement, Legarda also highlighted the role of its participants in widening the public’s understanding of COP26 and of broader climate issues.   “I hope this conversation paves the way to building more awareness and spurring the engagement of more Filipinos on critical climate issues in COP26 and beyond,” she concluded.

Contingency planning is important as it sets guidance on how to respond in the event of an emergency or disaster, and helps schools to resume normal activities as quickly as possible. Photo from the presentation of Ms. Monalyn Bermijiso of DepEd Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Service. MANILA, 22 October 2021 — The 67th episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways” highlighted the ways the Department of Education (DepEd) instills and practices disaster risk reduction and preparedness in all its offices, schools, and for learners and personnel.   The online conversation conceptualized and hosted by three-term Senator, now Deputy Speaker and Antique Representative Loren Legarda, with CCC Commissioner Rachel Herrera as co-host, featured guests including Dir. Ronilda Co and Ms. Monalyn Bermijiso of DepEd Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Service (DRRMS); Mr. Glenn Sabido from the Schools Division Office (SDO) of Iloilo; Ms. Ghia Ureta from Alasasin Elementary School, SDO Bataan; and Ms. Johannna Mae Sitchon from Panabo City National High School, SDO Panabo City.   “Sa gitna ng iba’t ibang panganib na dala ng mga natural hazards tulad ng bagyo, matinding tagtuyot, lindol, o pagputok ng bulkan, mahalaga na ang ating mga public schools o paaralan ay nasa ligtas na lugar. Kaya dapat ay mayroon tayong risk mapping at risk assessment sa bawat paaralan at bawat local government unit. Ang istruktura ng ating mga paaralan ay kailangang disaster-proof at akma sa local hazards. Ang mga mag-aaral, guro, at mga staff ng paaralan ay kailangang handa rin sa kung ano mang pwedeng mangyari, in the case of a disaster,” said Deputy Speaker Legarda.   The guests shared their initiatives in helping students understand the whys and hows of disaster preparedness and emphasized the importance of making schools and communities adaptive and disaster-resilient.   “Ang ating vision ay maging resilient ang ating mga learners and enjoy and exercise their rights to be safe and protected. Ang learners natin ay vulnerable, pero they are also actors of risk reduction and resilience. Sa ating preparedness ay may meaningful participation ang mga bata, and our personnel act as enablers and support to our learners. Ang ginagawa natin ay system-wide approach, hindi lang sa isang opisina, kundi sa lahat ng levels of governance,” said Dir. Co.   “Paano nga ba natin itinuturo sa mga paaralan at sa ating mag-aaral ‘yung kultura ng paghahanda? Una ay ang pag-integrate natin sa ating curriculum. Based sa ating K-12 curriculum guide, pumapasok ang DRR topics sa mga subjects na: Science, Health, at Araling Panlipunan. Dito natin napag-aaralan ‘yung mga factors na nakakaapekto sa pagbabago ng klima, ano ang dapat gawin ng mga mag-aaral before, during, and after natural hazards, anu-ano ang nilalaman ng GO bag, at ano ‘yung mga survival skills na kailangan nating matutunan,” said Ms. Bermijiso.   “One of our best practices in Iloilo is the Batang Empowered and Resilient Team (BERT) program. Ito ay grupo ng mga estudyante na kung saan ay nagfa-facilitate ng peer-to-peer teaching of DRRM sa kani-kanilang schools. Sila rin ang in-charge sa student-led school watching at hazard mapping kung saan pini-present nila ang result sa kanilang school planning team to be integrated in their school improvement plan and their annual investment plan. They also serve as focal persons of learners in planning for a safe school, and  the one promoting child-centered DRRM in school,” said Mr. Sabido.   “When the COVID-19 pandemic came in, we strategized to create immediate and timely responses to the current health crisis. These include the procurement of emergency response equipment and sanitation materials, availability of isolation room with emergency response equipment, as well as outlining our COVID-19 IATF-aligned school health protocols," said Ms. Sitchon.   “Relative to the efforts of managing disasters in the country, we believe that Alasasin Elementary School has a tangible role in building our community as a resilient learning environment. We plan and commit efforts to create a conducive learning atmosphere and process to enable our learners to develop their full potentials, morals, and skills needed for themselves, their communities, and the country,” said Ms. Ureta.   As an online discussion to promote health, environmental consciousness, and climate-adaptive practices, "Stories for a Better Normal" aims to change the mindset of individuals, families, and communities by demonstrating ways in which a ‘better normal’ can be realized within our communities.   This online discussion is organized in partnership between the Office of Deputy Speaker Legarda and the Climate Change Commission, with support from the Department of Education, Philippine Information Agency, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, The Climate Reality Project-Philippines and Mother Earth Foundation.

MANILA, 22 October 2021 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) continues its comprehensive efforts to adapt to a new normal and strengthens climate resilience as it celebrates its 12th year in service tomorrow.   The Commission was formed under Republic Act 9729 or the Climate Change Act signed in October 23, 2009. Under the Office of the President, the CCC is the sole policy-making body of the government tasked to coordinate, monitor and evaluate the programs and action plans of the government relating to climate change.   Despite the imposition of community quarantines brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, the CCC has responded to emerging challenges of the changing policy landscape and pursued the delivery of its mandates more efficiently and effectively.   Through the facilitation of CCC, the Philippines communicated its first Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) on 15 April 2021 to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Towards its implementation and reporting, the CCC has sustained its coordination and collaboration efforts with agencies and institutions in developing policy and measures (PAMs) of the lead sectoral agencies and identifying technical and implementation support needs.   Just last year, the Commission developed major resolutions and policy directives that mainstream climate change adaptation and mitigation actions, which include:   ·Adopting the Thematic Priorities of the Philippine Country Programme for the Green Climate Fund 2019-2023; ·Urging the Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation - Disaster Risk Reduction (CCAM-DRR) Cabinet Cluster, and Its Member Agencies to Adopt the Principles of the Circular Economy, Encourage the Use of Environment-Friendly Products and Practices, And Prohibit Single-Use Plastics in Their Respective Offices; ·Endorsing to the President of the Republic of the Philippines the Submission of the First Philippine Nationally Determined Contribution to the UNFCCC; ·Creating the Interagency Technical Working Group for Sustainable Finance; and ·Promulgating the Call for Nominations to the National Panel of Technical Experts of the Climate Change Commission.   The Commission delivers various technical advisory support and capacity building initiatives geared towards enabling national government agencies and local government units to design and program climate change plans, activities, and programs.   The CCC also pursues enhanced access to finance instruments such as Green Climate Fund (GCF) and People’s Survival Fund (PSF), and continues to monitor progress of public appropriations for climate action.   The Commission also conducted digital climate change capacity building and technical assistance activities to build the adaptive capacities and knowledge on climate change mitigation of national and local stakeholders. These include webinar workshops on NDC, local climate change action plan (LCCAP), national and local climate change expenditure tagging (CCET), and greenhouse gas inventory; PSF e-learning sessions and virtual clinics; and the Klima Film Festival for the youth.   The Commission continues to embark on partnerships with various agencies in government,  the private sector, and civil society to spark local action that bring in new voices that improve areas of action on climate, sustainable  development, and disaster risk reduction.   Moreover, the CCC has been a staunch advocate for gender empowerment and has consistently implemented efforts to ensure gender equity in terms of representation, non-discrimination, and respect of identity.   Recognizing the impacts of single-use plastics on climate, the CCC is also actively pushing for the passage of a landmark law that shall ban the single-use plastics and accelerate the uptake of circular economy to strengthen the country’s climate action.   Amidst the pandemic, the Commission carried out its information and education campaigns and introduced innovations in the delivery of its capacity development programs, through e-learning platforms, webinar presentations on climate change adaptation and mitigation, and other initiatives for public awareness and participation, aside from the regular press releases and artcards posted on the CCC social media accounts.   As the country faces the looming climate emergency, the Commission shall continue to deliver on its programs and outputs as planned and targeted, in line with the goal to build the adaptive capacity of communities, increase resilience of natural ecosystems to climate change, and optimize mitigation opportunities towards sustainable development.   For the succeeding years, the CCC will lay the urgent work ahead towards creating an enabling environment to guide and track progress of the transition to a low-carbon economy and transformation towards a climate-smart Philippines.   To know the various programs and events spearheaded by the Climate Change Commission, visit its website at climate.gov.ph or its social media accounts at CCCPhl.

MANILA, 20 October 2021 — The 67th episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways” will feature the programs, projects, and activities of the Department of Education (DepEd) that inculcate disaster preparedness in all DepEd offices, schools, learners, and personnel.   The online conversation, conceptualized and hosted by three-term former Senator, now Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, will air on Thursday, 21 October 2021, 10:00 AM via Facebook Live at facebook.com/CCCPhl, facebook.com/iamlorenlegarda, and facebook.com/DepartmentOfEducation.PH. Two lucky viewers can win tablets by tuning in throughout the program.   Joining the online conversation are Dir. Ronilda Co and Ms. Monalyn Bermijiso of DepEd Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Service (DRRMS); Mr. Glenn Sabido from the Schools Division Office (SDO) of Iloilo; Ms. Ghia Ureta from Alasasin Elementary School, SDO Bataan; and Ms. Johannna Mae Sitchon from Panabo City National High School, SDO Panabo City to discuss the DepEd’s disaster preparedness programs and good practices in public schools.   The Philippines, given its geographical location, archipelagic formation in the tropical Pacific, and population distribution, is highly exposed to natural hazards such as storms, flooding, drought, and rise in sea level, and is greatly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.    In 2021, the Global Climate Risk Index listed the Philippines as the number four country most affected by extreme weather events.  The country was likewise ranked ninth highest disaster risk among 181 countries in the world.   Based on the Department of Education (DepEd) Enhanced Basic Education Information System (EBEIS) data from school years 2009-2010 to 2018-2019, 47,188 schools reported to have experienced natural hazards.   Hence, reinforcing the capacities of the whole community towards the risk and adverse impacts of natural hazards is essential in order to reduce vulnerability.   The DepEd recognizes its responsibility in addressing these vulnerabilities. Through its disaster preparedness program initiatives, DepEd aims to protect its education investments, most especially its stakeholders, from the impacts of natural and human-induced hazards.   As part of its disaster preparedness program, the Department through the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Service is currently developing an edutainment series called “The Adventures of Ready Kid!”. This series is intended for children to understand natural hazards and disaster preparedness concepts easily. The series will contain 8 episodes, each providing a discussion on what to do before, during, and after each hazard. It will also introduce basic concepts about each hazard, including their causes or triggers, effects on schools and community, and mitigation measures in the Philippine setting.   As an online discussion to promote health, environmental consciousness, and climate-adaptive practices, "Stories for a Better Normal" aims to change the mindset of individuals, families, and communities by demonstrating ways in which a ‘better normal’ can be realized within our communities.   This online discussion is organized in partnership between the Office of Deputy Speaker Legarda and the Climate Change Commission, with support from the Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, The Climate Reality Project-Philippines and Mother Earth Foundation.

MANILA, 20 October 2021 — The Climate Change Commission and Nestle Philippines are partnering to empower Filipino youth for climate action as they launched “Klimathon: Our Race Towards a Net Zero Reality” on Wednesday, October 20, 2020.   Klimathon is an innovation lab focused on new and workable solutions that can help address current issues on the climate crisis, focusing on plastic waste management, renewable energy and energy efficiency, and food security. The initiative aims to amplify the voice of the youth and highlight their capability to develop and implement meaningful climate actions.   CCC Chairperson-designate and Finance Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez, who formally opened the launch, expressed his gratitude to the organizers and participants of Klimathon for “bringing together bright young minds from all over the country”.   “Your proposals will surely help our experts craft and implement achievable, coherent, concerted, and compelling climate action programs on the ground,” Dominguez said.   Nestle Philippines Chairman and CEO Kais Marzouki likewise highlighted the “crucial and necessary role” of the youth in tackling climate change, especially in addressing plastic problems, lowering greenhouse gas emissions, and ensuring food security.   “At Nestle Philippines, one of the largest markets for Nestle worldwide, we are deeply committed to pursuing our environmental goals. These support the attainment of the country’s Nationally Determined Contribution,” Marzouki noted.   “We cannot do this alone. In order to succeed, we must engage with other stakeholders. Thus, we are happy to collaborate with the CCC towards strengthening initiatives to promote science-based solutions to climate change—in particular, working with our youth,” he emphasized.   CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Emmanuel De Guzman also commended Nestle Philippines “for its express resolve to reduce by half its greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 towards net zero by 2050,” as well as for its efforts to engage the youth.   “With the world set to have the largest youth population ever in the coming years, honing their talents and harnessing their creativity to make a difference in climate action and to exemplify a sustainable, climate-friendly lifestyle is key to transforming our society,” De Guzman said.   The partnership was formalized in the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement led by De Guzman and Nestle Philippines Senior Vice President and Head of Public Affairs Arlene Tan-Bantoto. Also giving their messages of support during the launch and signing were Senator Pia Cayetano, Department of Environment and Natural Resources Undersecretary Analiza Rebuelta-Teh on behalf of Secretary Roy Cimatu, The Climate Reality Project Philippines Branch Manager Nazrin Camille Castro, and Kids for Kids Philippines founders Natasha and Isabelle Mañosa-Tanjutco.   Citing a study showing that a six-year-old child today will experience thrice as many disasters than their grandparents, CCC Commissioner Rachel Anne Herrera underscored how young people have been more proactive and more passionate about climate issues.   “We need to work for our youth and with them. This is what Klimathon is really all about—empowering and helping our youth really make an impact,” Herrera added.   The Klimathon is open to groups of Filipino students and young professionals, aged 16 to 24, who could develop projects based on one of the three focus pillars: plastic waste management, energy efficiency and renewable energy, and food security. Finalists will undergo a mentorship program with industry and field experts and cash prizes await the winning teams.   “These subject matter experts are from government, civil society, and even our subject matter experts from Nestle. They will mentor the finalists, and with this Klimathon, they will have more opportunities—they can expand their network, and we can also introduce their innovation to our partners in the whole value chain,” said Nestle Philippines Assistant VP for Sustainability and Public Affairs Christine Ponce-Garcia.   “We will ensure that these ideas come intro fruition through our mentorship, and we will ensure also that these ideas are introduced to our experts not just in Nestle but also in other companies as well,” she added.   Proposals may be sent to [email protected] on or before November 10, 2021. More details on the competition mechanics are available through this link : https://climate.gov.ph/events/klimathon.