MANILA, 4 May 2021 — Sustainable farming advocates will gather virtually to share knowledge on the socio-economic, environmental, and climate benefits of regenerative agriculture on the 44th episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways,” with the topic, “Farms of the Future.”   The episode, hosted by three-term former Senator, now Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, will air on Thursday, 6 May 2021, 10:00 AM via Facebook Live at facebook.com/CCCPhl and facebook.com/iamlorenlegarda.   Joining the online conversation are resource persons including Moises Butic, Ifugao muyong system practitioner; Renée Perrine, Co-Founder of Hineleban Farms; and Nicolo and Paula Aberasturi, Founders of Earth Flora Inc.   In previous episodes, the online series tackled various topics on sustainability including food gardening and saving seeds, permaculture, planting native trees, and millennial farming to encourage audiences to adopt a healthier and more environment and climate-friendly lifestyle—as needed now in this COVID-19 pandemic and climate emergency.   This episode will feature groups that practice sustainable and regenerative agriculture, a farming method that improves the resources it uses, rather than destroying or depleting them, through technologies that revitalize the soil and the environment.   Regenerative agriculture leads to healthy soil, capable of producing high quality, nutrient-dense food while simultaneously improving land which leads to productive farms and healthy communities and economies. It is dynamic and holistic, incorporating permaculture and organic farming practices, including conservation tillage, cover crops, crop rotation, composting, to increase food production, farmers’ income and especially, topsoil.   A global shift to regenerative agriculture can feed the world, decrease greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to climate change mitigation, improve yields, revitalize local economies, preserve traditional knowledge, nurture biodiversity, and improve nutrition.   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 May 2021 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) welcomed Nestlé Philippines’ commitments to halving their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2030 and achieving net zero by 2050 – even as the business continues to grow. This was during the 2021 Net-Zero Fair: Nestlé’s Contract with the Planet event virtually held April 30. Nestlé, among the world's top food and beverage manufacturers, declared 92 million tonnes of GHG emissions in 2018 - more than half of which came from the process of sourcing the ingredients for their products.   “From now until 2025, we will accelerate and expand the work already undertaken to achieve a 20% reduction in emissions. Between 2025 and 2030, we will transform our operations to achieve a 50% reduction of emissions. Finally, from 2030 to 2050, we will work to balance our emissions by exploring how we offset any remaining emissions through high-quality carbon removal projects or innovation, the result of which will be net-zero emissions,” Nestlé declared in its Net Zero Roadmap.   To achieve these milestones, Nestlé pledged to take action across agriculture, operations and products, including:   ·Protecting trees and landscapes that help absorb carbon and planting 20 million trees every year for the next 10 years; ·Working with farmers to shift to regenerative ways of growing ingredients for food, including for the products produced; ·Ending deforestation in the primary supply chains by 2022; ·Completing the transition to 100% renewable electricity in the 187 countries operated by 2025; and ·Increasing the number of 'carbon neutral' brands to give consumers the opportunity to contribute to the fight against climate change.   CCC Secretary Emmanuel M. de Guzman noted that the company's commitment to shift towards carbon neutrality aligns with the country's objectives in its first Nationally Determined Contribution under the Paris Agreement on Climate Change.   The first Philippine NDC conveys an ambitious emissions reduction target of 75 percent from 2021 to 2030 compared to business-as-usual projections. It formalizes the country’s goal of pursuing a low carbon and resilient development for the agriculture, waste, industry, transport, and energy sectors over the decade.   "The role of business and industry in the climate agenda is critical. It stands with many others that hold significant resources and capacity for investment. If harnessed properly, these could drive innovation, create more opportunities, and improve millions of lives,” De Guzman said.   The CCC encouraged Nestlé and other businesses to responsibly and efficiently utilize principles of the circular economy through more efficient recycling, sustainable packaging, and reducing their carbon footprint. The company's fast moving consumer goods have been tagged in the 2020 Brand Audit Report of the Break Free From Plastic coalition as one of the world’s top plastic sources of marine litter.   The climate body is actively advocating for the passage of a law that would phase out single-use plastic products across the country according to set periods depending on the products' replaceability or recyclability. The phaseout will be complemented by the establishment of an extended producers responsibility (EPR) scheme to oblige companies to take-back, collect, and recycle their products and help reduce waste going into landfills or leaking into the natural environment.   “Government and individual actions are vital to addressing climate change. That we are increasingly being joined by partners in the large business sector is a positive and encouraging step forward. Nestlé Philippines is taking full responsibility for its climate footprint; we hope that initiatives like today’s inspire more private businesses to undertake bolder climate action, as we all work together to sustain the momentum and the gains for a safer and more secure future for all,” said de Guzman.

MANILA, 29 April 2021 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) and Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) invite local government units (LGUs) to join the Local Climate Change Expenditure Tagging (CCET) Webinar, a virtual orientation on identifying and tagging climate change plans, activities, and programs in local investment plans and programs.   The webinar will be held via Zoom and streamed live on the CCC Facebook page on the following dates: May 4 for Luzon LGUs; May 5 for Visayas LGUs; and May 6 for Mindanao LGUs.   The virtual orientation will cover eight essential topics on climate science and the policy responses of the Philippine government – zooming into entry points for national and local action. Climate change planning and investment programming based on actual local government experience will also be shared to add practical knowledge.   Secretary Emmanuel M. De Guzman, Commissioners Noel V. Gaerlan and Rachel Anne S. Herrera of the CCC will join Secretary Eduardo M. Año of the DILG, and Director Anna Liza F. Bonagua of Local Government Development as guest speakers to the said three-day webinar.   Furthermore, members of the CCC’s National Panel of Technical Experts, Dr. Rodel D. Lasco, Dr. Juan Pulhin, and Fr. Jose Ramon Villarin will serve as resource speakers alongside Mr. Gerard Lavadia, Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer from Tagbilaran City; Mr. Raoul Cam, City Planning and Development Coordinator from Ormoc City; and Mr. Nael Crusero, City Planning and Development Coordinator from General Santos City.   Last year, despite the imposition of community quarantines across the country, the CCC and its partner agencies delivered several virtual CCET webinars and orientations to institutionalize CCET in the national and local budget programming and expenditure tracking processes and to ensure that institutions are aware of and compliant with the CCET requirements provided in the National Budget Preparation for the Fiscal Year 2021 memorandum.   The CCET aims to serve as an effective basis for allocating and prioritizing government resources by generating timely statistics and baselines to evaluate the impact of climate public expenditures.   The Climate Change Act of 2009 (Republic Act No. 9729, as amended by RA 10174) identifies local government units as the frontline agencies in formulating, planning and implementing climate action in their communities.   Interested participants may pre-register for free via this link: bit.ly/RegisterCCETWebinar.   For more information about the Local CCET Webinar for LGUs, visit the Facebook page of the Climate Change Commission at www.facebook.com/CCCPhl or directly contact the CCET Helpdesk CCET Helpdesk through Mr. Francisco III Dacumos at [email protected], [email protected] or (02) 8254-7056.

MAYNILA, ika-28 ng Abril taong 2021 — Magsasama-sama virtually ang ilan sa mga entrepreneurs mula sa sikat na Poblacion area sa Makati upang mai-angat ang kamalayan kung paano isinusulong ng mga lokal na negosyo ang environmental sustainability at pangangalaga ng pamanang-kultura sa ika-43rd episode ng seryeng “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways,” na may temang, “Makati Poblacion: Empowering Local.”   Pangungunahan ni dating three-term Senator, at ngayo'y Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda ang episode na ito,  na mapapanood sa Huwebes, ika-29 ng April 2021, 10:00 AM via Facebook Live at facebook.com/CCCPhl and facebook.com/iamlorenlegarda.   Kasama sa online na talakayan ang mga entrepreneurs na sina Samantha Nicole Samonte, Programming Director ng Futur:st; Rachel Harrison, may-ari ng Zambawood Private Event Space; Architect Jed Yabut, na isang rattan artist; at Chef Christine Zarandin, founding chef ng Wantusawa.   Matatandaang sa nakaraang mga episode, pinag-usapan sa online na serye ang papel ng micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), lalong-lalo na sa usapin ng  tradisyonal na paghahabi at mga sining, pagpa-palayok at pagla-laryo, pagtatanim ng kape, at pagtatanim ng kawayan, sa pagbibigay ng mga pagkakataong magkaroon ng sustenableng pagkakakitaang pangkabuhayan habang pinapangalagaan ang pamanang pang-kultura at sinusuportahan lokal na manlilikhang sining.   Sa episode na ito, bibigyang-diin ang kolektibong pagkilos ng mga entrepreneurs para muling bigyang-buhay ang Poblacion, at gawin itong isang urban center at maningning na lugar ng pag-asa para sa sining, kultura, at environmental sustainability sa pamamagitan ng pagbabagong anyo at pagkatao ng distrito sa gitna ng pandemya. Itatampok din ang mga local spaces na sumusuporta at nagbibigay kakayahan sa mga homegrown brands at mga alagad ng sining.   Malaki ang naging epekto ng pandemyang COVID-19 at ang katuwang nitong mga hakbanging quarantine sa lokal na mga MSMEs, na binubuo ng 99.5% na mga negosyo sa Pilipinas at nakapagbibigay trabaho sa mahigit kumulang 63% na mga uring manggagawa ng bansa. Ayon sa Asian Development Bank, 70.6% ng mga MSMEs na sinuri sa Pilipinas ang napilitang panandaliang magsara dahil sa COVID-19 outbreak. Bilang importanteng bahagi ng ekonomiya sa Pilipinas, kinakailangang bigyan ng naaayon na suporta ang mga  MSMEs para kayanin ng mga itong maka-panumbalik ng mas matatag.   Bilang isang online na talakayan upang maisulong ang kalusugan at kamalayang pang-kapaligiran, naglalayon ang "Stories for a Better Normal" na baguhin ang kaisipan ng mga tao, mga pamilya, at mga pamayanan sa pamamagitan ng pagpapakita ng mga pamamaraan kung saan maaaring magkaroon tayo at maisasabuhay natin ang isang ‘better normal’ sa loob ng ating mga pamayanan.   Na-organisa ang online na talakayang ito mula sa pagtutulungan ng tanggapan ni Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda at ng Climate Change Commission (CCC) na binigyang-suporta naman mula sa Department of Education, Philippine Information Agency, Philippine Commission on Women, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, The Climate Reality Project-Philippines and Mother Earth Foundation. 

MANILA, 27 April 2021 — Entrepreneurs of the trendy Poblacion area in Makati will gather virtually to raise awareness on how local businesses are advancing environmental sustainability and preservation of cultural heritage on the 43rd episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways,” with the topic, “Makati Poblacion: Empowering Local.”   The episode, hosted by three-term former Senator, now Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, will air on Thursday, 29 April 2021, 10:00 AM via Facebook Live at facebook.com/CCCPhl and facebook.com/iamlorenlegarda.   Joining the online conversation are young entrepreneurs Samantha Nicole Samonte, Programming Director of Futur:st; Rachel Harrison, owner of Zambawood Private Event Space; Architect Jed Yabut, a rattan artist; and Chef Christine Zarandin, founding chef of Wantusawa Oysters.   In previous episodes, the online series tackled the role of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), particularly in the areas of traditional weaving and crafts, pottery and brickmaking, coffee production, and bamboo propagation, in providing environmentally sustainable and viable livelihood options to communities, while preserving cultural heritage and local craftspersonship.   This episode will highlight the collective efforts of entrepreneurs to bring Poblacion back to life, and make it the urban center and bright spot of hope for arts, culture, and environmental sustainability by reshaping the district’s identity amidst the pandemic. It will feature local spaces that support and empower homegrown brands and artists.   The COVID-19 pandemic and the associated quarantine measures took a toll on MSMEs, which comprise 99.5% of business establishments in the Philippines and employ about 63% of the country's workforce. According to the Asian Development Bank, 70.6% of MSMEs surveyed in the Philippines were forced to temporarily close due to the COVID-19 outbreak. As the lifeblood of the Philippine economy, MSMEs should be adequately supported to enable them to bounce back greener and more resilient.   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 Climate Change Commission and the Office of Deputy Speaker Legarda, 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 April 2021 — Distinguished policymakers highlighted the pending legislation to ban single-use plastics (SUPs) during the 42nd episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Pathways,” with the topic, “The Single-Use Plastics Problem: Perspective from Policymakers.”   The online conversation hosted by Deputy Speaker and Antique Representative Loren Legarda was part of the Earth Day 2021 Webcast – PINASiglang Mundo held yesterday in celebration of the 51st anniversary of Earth Day aimed at driving support for planetary protection and action.   "Tayo ang may gawa ng pagkasira, ngunit nasa kamay din natin ang ating muling paghilom. May panahon pa para muli nating ibalik ang sigla ng ating kalikasan at kapaligiran," said Legarda.   The episode feature policymakers including Rep. Edgar Chatto,  Chair of the House Committee on Climate Change and Representative of the First District of Bohol; Rep. Jose Francisco “Kiko” Benitez, Chair of the House Committee on Ecology Technical Working Group on Single-Use Plastics and Representative of the Third District of Negros Occidental; and Mayor Noel Rosal of Legazpi City, Albay, Focal for Environment and Climate Change of the League of Cities of the Philippines.   All three policymakers strongly advocated for the importance of urgently reducing plastic pollution and raising awareness on its negative effects on public health and the environment, and encouraged stakeholders to support legislative and local efforts on banning single-use plastic products as an effective and immediate way to address the problems of pollution and climate change.   “Walang isang silver bullet o isang magic pill na makakatulong sa atin upang mawakasan ang problema sa plastik o climate change. Kailangan nating gamitin ang lahat ng available solutions to help combat our dependency to use single-use plastic. Sa ating pananaw, una ay ang pagpo-promote sa pagsupil ng throw-away mentality. Piliin ang reuse at recycle. Iwasan ang paggamit ng secondary packaging and bring your own bags. Nakapa-importante ng mga advocacies na ito on how to make people understand the connection between health and climate change to the change of behavior because this really affects how people will look at things. If we can practice this as a way of life then it becomes a system for everyone,” said Cong. Chatto.   “Either we believe we are in a climate emergency and we cannot wait, or we feel that emergency is not sufficient to increase our stepping up in tightening our regulations on single-use plastics, given that we, as a nation, are culpable globally as a really high leakage source of plastics into the ocean and the environment,” said Cong. Benitez.   “Ang atin pong addiction sa plastic ay medyo matagal-tagal na ‘yan. To wean us out of our habit on single-use plastics ay ‘di ganoong kadali. Pinagusapan po ng TWG ng Komite, kung ano ang pwedeng gawin para mabalanse ang pangangailangan ng industriya, ang pangangailangan ng ekonomiya, at ang pangangailangan ng kalikasan,” said Cong. Benitez.   “I always believe that when you do programs for the environment, hindi lang dapat launching and picture taking then tapos na. It should be sustainable, dapat meron sustainability and continuity – 'yan ang pinakamahalaga ngayon and it should be passed on generation to generation. Like in tree planting, kailangan balikan natin para diligan at bisitahin. After a year titingnan natin kung ano pwede natin intervention. Pag gumawa tayo ng program, it should be sustainable and have continuity,” said Mayor Rosal.   Legarda, a staunch environmental advocate and author of landmark environmental laws including RA 9729 or the Climate Change Act and RA 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Law, among others, will further campaign on reducing, if not eliminating single-use plastics by engaging the academe and other stakeholders to mainstream it at the community level.   "Kung lahat ng DepEd schools ang magsisimula kasama ng LGU, siguradong 'yan ang game changer. Kasi kapag teacher na ang magsabi, 'yung mga bata sasabihin sa magulang na mag-adapt sa zero waste lifestyle. So, we will partner with DepEd, we will engage district supervisors, principals, teachers, and non-teaching personnel to have intensive training focused on single-use plastics, para sila ang maging eco-warriors and champions on the ground,”  said Legarda.   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.   The Earth Day 2021 Webcast – PINASiglang Mundo is organized by the Climate Change Commission, Department of Finance, Department of Education, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Office of Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda,  and The Climate Reality Project Philippines, in collaboration with the Break Free from Plastic Philippines coalition, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Local Government Academy, Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines, League of Cities of the Philippines, and British Embassy Manila, with support from the Philippine Information Agency, the Philippine Center for Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development Inc., Odistry, GMA Network, and CNN Philippines.   Watch the replay of the eight-hour webcast through this link:  https://facebook.com/CCCPhl/videos/475342813711718/.

MANILA, 26 April 2021 — Sustainable enterprises and organizations have gathered in an online conversation to showcase their programs and initiatives to reduce and eliminate single-use plastics, as part of the Earth Day 2021 Webcast held via Facebook Live on April 22.   Hosted by Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Undersecretary Ruth Castelo, the segment featured advocates and practitioners on waste reduction and recycling from the business sector and civil society including Laarnie Rivera-Cancio of Back to Basics Ecostore; Jamico Jamlang of The Bamboo Company; Gloria Estenzo Ramos of Oceana Philippines; Nanette Medved-Po of Plastic Credit Exchange (PCEx); and Atty. Marc Cox of Coca-Cola Philippines.   “Nakita na natin in recent years na talagang mayroon nang shift in consumer attitude towards sustainability, marami na tayong na-impluwensiyahan at na-convince kung gaano ka-importante na maging sustainable ang ating behavior. More consumers are looking for sustainable products and packaging. We see also a lot of consumers that have become aware that single-use plastics are negative. So let’s talk about what businesses and CSOs are doing to catch up to that demand,” said Usec. Castelo.   “Back to Basics Ecostore is a startup company… We refill your basic household essentials (detergent, condiments, etc.) This started from our own practice, as one of our frustrations was going to the grocery without so much choice… We looked for suppliers and then arranged with them wherein we can return or swap the containers we buy in bulk, and then refill the customers’ containers,” said Ms. Rivera-Cancio.   “The Bamboo Company creates alternatives for plastic items… We’re not just solving the problem of plastic pollution, but we’re also trying to solve the issue of carbon emissions. The raw material of plastic is oil, which produces more carbon in the atmosphere and affects the climate. Bamboo is a good material, as an alternative, because whenever you plant it, it absorbs carbon better, which also help out in terms of climate change,” said Mr. Jamlang.   “Oceana is the only international non-government organization focused solely on marine conservation. We are in 12 different countries all over the world, and Oceana in the Philippines was opened in 2014. Our foremost goal in the country is the restoration of fisheries abundance and we have very specific, time-bound campaigns. We work closely with the government in helping our agencies to perform their mandates and one of these is the campaign to ban single-use plastics,” said Atty. Ramos.   “People see that PCEx is a credit exchange so we look at offsets. But when we do talk to companies, we don’t spend too much time talking to the consumers, but we talk to the businesses because we feel that is a place where we can make the greatest impact, because these are the large producers of plastic packaging and plastic products,” said Ms. Medved-Po.   “Although the Coca-Cola business is made up of PET (or polyethylene terephthalate) bottles and returnable glass bottles, interestingly, 50% or a little over half of the business is still in returnable glass bottles.  It’s still those glass bottles that we see in sari-sari stores when we buy the drinks, and when returned there’s a deposit. For our PET bottles and aluminum can products, all of those are using recyclable packaging materials,” said Atty. Cox.   The Earth Day 2021 Webcast, anchored on the national theme, PINASiglang Mundo, underscored the need to address the global climate crisis, and backed the government’s thrust of highlighting the importance of urgently reducing plastic pollution and raising awareness on its negative effects on public health and the environment.   The webcast was organized by the Climate Change Commission, Department of Finance, Department of Education, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Office of Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, and The Climate Reality Project Philippines, in collaboration with the Break Free from Plastic Philippines Coalition, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Local Government Academy, Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines, and British Embassy Manila, with support from the League of Cities of the Philippines, the Philippine Center for Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development, Inc., and Odistry.   The webcast was also streamed through the Facebook Page of GMA Network and CNN Philippines, also the official media partners.   Watch the replay of the eight-hour webcast through this link:  https://facebook.com/CCCPhl/videos/475342813711718/.

WEBINAR: Local Climate Change Expenditure Tagging Webinar For Local Government Units May 4-6, 2021 | Zoom and Facebook Live | 8am-3pm The Climate Change Commission and the Department of the Interior and Local Government are inviting  local government units (LGUs) to the Local Climate Change Expenditure Tagging Webinar, a virtual orientation on identifying and tagging climate change plans, activities, and programs in their investment plans and programs. To be held on May 4 to 6, the Webinar will cover eight essential topics on climate science and the policy responses of the Philippine government, zooming into entry points for national and local action. Climate change planning and investment programming based on actual local government experience will also be shared to add practical knowledge. HOW TO REGISTER? Step 1: Pre-register for free via this link: bit.ly/RegisterCCETWebinar Wait for the confirmation email for further instructions. Step 2: Choose a schedule based on your location: May 4: LUZON CLUSTER – bit.ly/CCETZoomRegisterLuzon May 5: VISAYAS CLUSTER – bit.ly/CCETZoomRegisterVisayas May 6: MINDANAO CLUSTER – bit.ly/CCETZoomRegisterMindanao Interested participants from national government agencies may also register according to the cluster of constituent LGUs. Step 3: Complete the pre-webinar assessment survey by clicking this link: bit.ly/CCETPreWebinarSurvey Wait for the registration confirmation email for further instructions, materials, and to receive the webinar log in credentials. NOTE: Our Local Chief Executives may directly secure access to the Webinar by directly coordinating with the CCET Helpdesk through Mr. Francisco III Dacumos at [email protected] or [email protected] or (02) 8254-7056. #CCET #ClimateActionPH

MANILA, 23 April 2021 — Government leaders, led by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, called on all Filipinos to work together to care for the planet and emphasized actions to reduce single-use plastic pollution in the country during the PINASiglang Mundo Earth Day Webcast hosted by the Climate Change Commission (CCC) on Thursday, April 22.   “This occasion reminds us of our inherent responsibility to take care of our planet,” Duterte said during the opening of the webcast.   “As we recover from the adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on our lives and economy, let us always bear in mind that a healthy nation is anchored on a healthy and sound natural environment,” he added.   Finance Secretary and CCC Chairperson-Designate Carlos G. Dominguez lauded the presence of leaders from Congress and local government during the opening of the webcast, including House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco, Senator Cynthia Villar, and Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines National President and Quirino Governor Dakila Carlo Cua.   “In the coming period, the National Government will be working intensively with Congress and local governments to achieve our commitments to the Paris Agreement,” Dominguez said.   “Our ambitious NDC underscores the urgency with which we view this greatest challenge facing the Earth today. We intend to be a strong signal to the international community to be more aggressive in addressing the deteriorating state of the planet,” he added.   “To jumpstart the fight against climate change, we are pushing for the passage of the bill that would ban single-use plastics. This is a major step to encourage every Filipino to do his or her part on a daily basis in helping save the Philippines’ and the world’s environment. We hope that Congress’ timely passage of this legislation will happen,” Dominguez said.   Senator Villar, who chairs the Senate Committee on Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change, and Governor Velasco vowed to work for the passage of a law to regulate single-use plastics in their respective messages for the webcast.   “If the Philippines is serious in helping restore the health of the Earth, I think we should start with a reduction of our plastic waste. It is here where our contribution as a nation to the healing of the Earth will be felt,” Villar said.   “I will strongly push for the passage of the bill institutionalizing EPR or the Extended Producers Responsibility mechanism as part of the country’s solid waste management system, and as a strategy to reduce the proliferation of single-use plastic that pollutes the environment,” Villar added.   “The task may seem to be a very great burden, yet we need to take steps before our land and ocean are overwhelmed with plastic waste and we are deprived of our much-needed food supply and balanced biodiversity,” Velasco said.   “We in the House of Representatives have committed to finding better and more efficient solutions to address the problem regarding pollution and climate change, to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, and be able to adjust to a sustainable new normal under these trying times,” he added.   Velasco also provided updates on the bill currently pending in the House tackling single-use plastics. The CCC has been advocating for the passage of the bill and lending its expertise as a House technical working group consolidated multiple bills filed by legislators, including Velasco.   “The bill is currently under consideration for second reading. Among the objectives are to protect life, both land and water, from hazards posed by plastic pollution and to ensure that non-compostable single-use synthetic plastic products deemed necessary to society do not leak into nature, and to discourage consumption of SUP products and promote circularity through reduction, reuse, and recycling of plastic trash,” Velasco said.   Meanwhile, Cua highlighted the work local governments are doing to tackle the plastic crisis all over the country.   “While our legislators are working hard on a national ban to address single-use plastics, some 489 cities, municipalities, and provinces have already resolved to stop or regulate the use of plastic bags altogether. Sana po tuluy-tuloy at umigting pa po ito,” Cua said.   Cua added that he hopes more Filipinos would express support for their local governments pushing for plastic-free communities, saying “Malaking bagay na makita na ‘yung constituents natin, hindi lang sumusunod kundi nangunguna pa po sa ating gawain tungo sa PINASiglang Mundo.”    Presidential Proclamation No. 1481 in April 2008 declared April 22 as “Philippines’ Earth Day.” More than a billion people celebrate the event in over 190 countries around the world. This year’s theme is “Restore Our Earth,” highlighting the role of every individual and member of the community to address the global climate crisis and its resulting effects on ecosystems, biodiversity, food and water, public health, industries, and communities.

MAYNILA, ika-21 ng Abril taong 2021 — Alinsunod sa pagdiriwang ng Earth Day ngayong ika-22 ng Abril, pag-uusapan virtually ang mga panukalang-batas ukol sa pagbabawal ng single-use plastics sa buong bansa ngayong ika-42 na episode ng seryeng “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways,” na may temang, "The Single-Use Plastics Problem: Perspective From Policymakers.”   Sa pangunguna ni Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, mapapanood ang episode na ito ngayong Huwebes,  ika-22 ng Abril 2021, 10:00 AM via Facebook Live sa facebook.com/CCCPhl at facebook.com/iamlorenlegarda, bilang bahagi ng  Earth Day 2021 Webcast, "PINASiglang Mundo."   Kabilang sa online na talakayan sina  Rep. Edgar Chatto, Chair ng House Committee on Climate Change at Representative ng First District ng Bohol; Rep. Jose Francisco “Kiko” Benitez, Chair ng House Committee on Ecology - Technical Working Group on Single-Use Plastics at Representative ng Third District ng Negros Occidental; at Mayor Noel Rosal ng Legazpi City, Albay, na syang Focal for Environment and Climate Change ng League of Cities of the Philippines.   Ini-organisa naman ang Earth Day 2021 Webcast ng Climate Change Commission, Department of Finance, Department of Education, Department of Environment and Natural Resources,  Tanggapan ni Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, at The Climate Reality Project Philippines, sa pakikipagtulungan kasama ang Break Free from Plastic Philippines coalition, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Local Government Academy, Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines, League of Cities of the Philippines, at British Embassy Manila, na sinusuportahan ng Philippine Information Agency, Philippine Center for Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development Inc., Odistry, GMA Network, at CNN Philippines.   Matatandaang sa nakaraang mga episode, tinalakay sa serye ang kahalagahan ng agarang pagbabawas ng plastic pollution at pagpapalawak ng kamalayan ukol sa mga negatibong epekto nito sa pampublikong kalusugan at kapaligiran.   Sa episode na ito, lalo pang bibigyang-diin ni Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda kasama ang kaniyang mga panauhin ang panukalang batas na siyang nagbabawal sa pagkakaroon ng single-use plastics bilang pangunahing adbokasiya na maaaring makapagpalakas at makapagpalalim pa ng pagdiriwang ng Earth Day ngayong taon.   Ngayong ika-22 ng Abril ang ika-51 na anibersayong pagdiriwang ng Earth Day, na naglalayong makapag-angat ng kamalayan at humimok ng suporta para sa pagkilos at proteksyong pam-planeta. Para sa taong ito, bibigyang-tuon ng temang “Restore Our Earth” ang pangangailangang matugunan ang pandaigdigang climate crisis at ang kaakibat nitong panggigipit sa ecosystems, biodiversity, pagkain at tubig, kalusugang pang-publiko at sa ating mga industriya at pamayanan.   Hihikayatin ng episode na ito ang mga stakeholders na suportahan ang lehislatibong pagkilos at pang-lokal na pagbabawal sa mga produktong gawa sa single-use plastic bilang epektibo at agarang pamamaraan upang matugunan ang mga problema sa polusyon at climate change.   Bilang isang online na talakayan upang maisulong ang kalusugan at kamalayang pang-kapaligiran, naglalayon ang "Stories for a Better Normal" na baguhin ang kaisipan ng mga tao, mga pamilya, at mga pamayanan sa pamamagitan ng pagpapakita ng mga pamamaraan kung saan maaaring magkaroon tayo at maisasabuhay natin ang isang ‘better normal’ sa loob ng ating mga pamayanan.   Na-organisa ang online na talakayang ito mula sa pagtutulungan ng tanggapan ni Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda at ng CCC na binigyang-suporta naman mula sa Department of Education, Philippine Information Agency, Philippine Commission on Women, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, The Climate Reality Project-Philippines and Mother Earth Foundation.

MANILA, 20 April 2021 — In celebration of Earth Day this April 22, distinguished policymakers will gather virtually to share information on the current discussions on the bill to ban single-use plastics nationwide on the 42nd episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways,” with the topic, “The Single-Use Plastics Problem: Perspective from Policymakers.”   The episode, hosted by Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, will air on Thursday, 22 April 2021, 10:00 AM via Facebook Live at facebook.com/CCCPhl and facebook.com/iamlorenlegarda, as part of the Earth Day 2021 Webcast – PINASiglang Mundo.   The Earth Day 2021 Webcast – PINASiglang Mundo is organized by the Climate Change Commission, Department of Finance, Department of Education, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Office of Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda,  and The Climate Reality Project Philippines, in collaboration with the Break Free from Plastic Philippines coalition, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Local Government Academy, Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines, League of Cities of the Philippines, and British Embassy Manila, with support from the Philippine Information Agency, the Philippine Center for Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development Inc., Odistry, GMA Network, and CNN Philippines.   Joining the online conversation are notable policymakers Rep. Edgar Chatto, Chair of the House Committee on Climate Change and Representative of the First District of Bohol; Rep. Jose Francisco “Kiko” Benitez, Chair of the House Committee on Ecology - Technical Working Group on Single-Use Plastics and Representative of the Third District of Negros Occidental; and Mayor Noel Rosal of Legazpi City, Albay, Focal for Environment and Climate Change of the League of Cities of the Philippines.   In previous episodes, the online series tackled the importance of urgently reducing plastic pollution and raising awareness on its negative effects on public health and the environment.   In this episode, Legarda and esteemed guests will further highlight the pending legislation to ban single-use plastics as the major advocacy that can maximize and deepen this year’s celebration of the Earth Day event.   This April 22 is the 51st anniversary of the Earth Day celebration, which aims to raise awareness and drive support for planetary protection and action. For this year, the theme “Restore Our Earth” underscores the need to address the global climate crisis and its resulting pressure on our ecosystems, biodiversity, food and water, public health, and our industries and communities.   This episode will encourage stakeholders to support legislative and local efforts on banning single-use plastic products as an effective and immediate way to address the problems of pollution and 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, 20 April 2021 — The Department of Finance (DOF) and Climate Change Commission (CCC) are gearing up for the 51st-anniversary celebration of Earth Day on April 22, through a full-day webcast of activities highlighting the country’s campaign against single-use plastics.   According to DOF Secretary and CCC Chairperson-Designate Carlos G. Dominguez, the climate body’s emphasis on addressing the challenge of single-use plastics will be under the theme of “PINASiglang Mundo,” which ties into the global theme for this year to “Restore Our Earth” and drive planetary protection and action.   “On this year’s Earth Day, we are called to Restore Our Earth. To do that, one of the most important actions we have to take is to push for effective policies and realistic solutions to address the growing challenges from single-use plastics pollution, and to set us on the path of sustainable consumption and production,” Dominguez said.   This year’s Earth Day 2021 celebration highlights the role of every individual and member of the community to address the global climate crisis and its resulting effects on ecosystems, biodiversity, food and water, public health, industries, and communities.   The theme also ties in with the United Nations declaration of 2011 to 2030 as the “UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration,” which emphasizes the year 2030 as the deadline for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the year that the scientific community defined as the closing of opportunity to limit global warming at 1.5 degrees Celsius—the threshold for survival for highly climate-vulnerable countries like the Philippines.   “We call on every Filipino to join us in this year’s celebration and to support the goal for a much healthier and more resilient Philippines. We must now be more conscious of the power in our daily decisions to reduce our carbon footprint and embrace sustainable practices,” Dominguez added.   The CCC said that this year’s celebration will gather stakeholders from across many sectors, unite their efforts, and mobilize support for the growing advocacy to ban or phase out single-use plastics, promote responsible consumption and production, and pursue ecosystem restoration.   The webcast will open with a live “Jam For Earth” session led by GMA7 singer-songwriter Aicelle Santos and a series on "My Earth Day Pledge" featuring testimonials and commitments from leaders in government, the business sector, academe, and civil society.   Earth Day 2021 will also have a focus episode of “Stories for a Better Normal,” hosted weekly by Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, that will bring together legislators to discuss and share updates on the proposed legislation to ban single-use plastics and implement an extended producers responsibility (EPR) scheme. Efforts of Filipinos from all walks of life to shift away from plastics through the #WalangPlastikan challenge will also be highlighted during the event. A panel discussion on community experiences and technological innovations to reduce single-use plastics will be hosted by Department of Trade and Industry Undersecretary Ruth Castelo and feature social enterprises and businesses promoting zero-waste, and the conservation group Oceana, which is also a member of the Break Free From Plastic coalition. The Earth Day celebration will conclude with another session of Jam For Earth with special guests.   Partners for the event are the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Education, Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines, Office of Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda,  and The Climate Reality Project Philippines, in collaboration with the Break Free from Plastic Philippines coalition, Philippine Information Agency, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Local Government Academy, League of Cities of the Philippines, British Embassy Manila, and the Philippine Center for Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development, Inc.   Presidential Proclamation No. 1481 in April 2008 declared April 22 as “Philippines’ Earth Day.” More than a billion people celebrate the event in over 190 countries around the world.

There is a need to change the narrative of agriculture to encourage more youth to go and venture agribusiness. Photo from the PowerPoint presentation of Ms. Cherrie Atilano, Founder and CEO of AGREA Agricultural Systems International, Inc. MANILA, 16 April 2021 — Plant-based nutrition advocates highlighted the benefits of shifting to a plant-based diet, growing your own food, providing help for our farmers, and making ourselves healthy in the midst of climate and health crises during the 41st episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Pathways,” with the second part of the topic, “Oh My Gulay!” The online conversation hosted by three-term Senator, now Deputy Speaker and Antique Representative Loren Legarda, featured sustainable food enthusiasts including Cherrie Atilano, Founder and CEO of AGREA Agricultural Systems International; Roni Matalog, Founder of Plants & Purpose; Chef Lilibeth “B” Camposano, Founder of The Sexy Kitchen by B; and Adolf Aguilar, Chief of Youth Formation Division of the Department of Education (DepEd). The guests discussed why healthy diets, sustainable food systems, and regenerative farming are needed in pursuing green recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, and shared practical tips to start a plant-based journey. They also highlighted how a balanced diet through plant-based food and reducing food waste can present major opportunities to mitigate climate change and adapt to its impact. The success stories of Gulayan sa Paaralan of DepEd and how it has been complemented by the Gulayan sa Tahanan program were also given emphasis during the episode. “Ang pagpapatubo natin ng pagkain ay hindi dapat nakasisira sa kalikasan, hindi rin dapat nakasisira sa kalusugan, at dapat nakako-contribute ito sa ekonomiya ng ating bansa. Food is the new internet kasi it connects all of us. It should also propel us to do good. Palagi nating alalahanin ang ating mga magsasaka at mangingisda, na sila ang ating heroes,” said Atilano. “How can we start a plant-based journey? Identify your purpose, ano ‘yung intention mo or reason, learn actively, take action, focus on your nourishment instead of considering it only as a diet, thrive on your journey and lifestyle, and get social support,” said Matalog. “Kailangan nating malaman na dahil sa pag-unlad ay masyadong bumibilis ang pagproseso ng pagkain. Sa ating pangangailangang kumain, maraming nasisira, nakalilimutan na ang social responsibilities sa paggawa ng pagkain. Nagkakaroon tayo ng pollution, animal abuse, obesity, and mental health diseases. Nagkakaroon tayo ng global warming because of our food production – pagkasira ng lupa, deforestation, and human food waste,” said Chef B. “Ang Gulayan sa Paaralan will ensure that our schools will have a steady supply of vegetables. Through this, kapag nakita nila sa paaralan, gagayahin din ito ng families sa kani-kanilang mga tahanan. Isa sa mga magandang naidulot ng pandemic ay nagkakaroon ng panahon at opportunity na magtanim at mag-grow ng sariling gulay ang families, ang ating teachers, kaya medyo masagana po ang ani sa ating mga gulayan lalo na sa mga probinsya,” said Aguilar. Legarda reiterated that not only farmers, LGUs, schools, and chefs can have their own vegetable farm. Everyone can be self-sufficient and sustainable by learning urban gardening in the time of pandemic and growing their own food to sustain their basic needs. "Hindi naman kailangan ng napakalaking budget para magkaroon ng sariling gulayan. Ang importante lang, may kaunting lupa. Puwede tayong magtanim sa naresikulong bote, lata, o plastik. ‘Yung ating food wastes at dried leaves ang ginagawang organic fertilizer. We save seeds, tayo ay nagpapatuyo ng mga buto galing sa ating kinakain at ‘yun ang siyang ipapasibol. If we institutionalize ‘yung segregation of waste at source, recycling, at tayo ang gagawa ng sariling compost at magse-save ng seeds na itatanim, sigurado akong hindi napakalaking budget ang kailangan," Legarda concluded. 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-14 ng Abril taong 2021 — Muling magtitipon-tipon virtually ang ilan sa mga kilalang sustainable food enthusiasts bilang pangalawang bahagi ng temang "Oh My Gulay!", upang magbahagi ng karagdagan nilang kaalaman ukol sa plant-based diets at makapagbigay kamalayan sa benepisyong hatid ng pagkaing plant-based sa lokal na ekonomiya, kalusugang pantao at kapaligiran ngayong ika-41 na episode ng seryeng “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways.” Ito ang pang-huling special episode para sa paggunita ng National Food Month.   Sa pangunguna ni dating three-term Senator at kasalukuyang Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, mapapanood ang episode na ito ngayong Huwebes ika-15 ng Abril 2021, 10:00 AM sa pamamagitan ng Facebook Live at facebook.com/CCCPhl and facebook.com/iamlorenlegarda.   Kasama sa online na talakayan ang mga tagapagsulong ng plant-based na pagkain na sina Cherrie Atilano, Founder at CEO ng AGREA Agricultural Systems International; Roni Matalog, Founder ng Plants & Purpose;  Chef Lilibeth “B” Camposano, Founder ng The Sexy Kitchen by B; at Adolf Aguilar, Chief of Youth Formation Division ng Department of Education (DepEd).   Maaalalang sa nakaraang mga episode, pinag-usapan sa online na serye ang kahalagahan ng pangangalaga ng lokal na mga pamanang pagkain sa pamamagitan ng sustenableng mga diets, pati na rin ang pagtatanim sa likod-bakuran, paghahalaman para may anihing pagkain, pag-iipon ng mga binhi, at ang pagtatanim ng mga organikong prutas at gulay sa pamamaraang permaculture upang maturuan ang publiko kung paano maging self-sustainable at self-sufficient.   Samantala, para naman sa episode na ito, mas paiigtingin nina Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda at ng kaniyang mga panauhin ang pagbibigay-diin sa plant-based diets bilang holistic approach sa pagpapabuti ng kasalukuyang sistema ng pagkain, at makapaghihikayat sa mga manonood na suportahan at palawakin pa ang mga kasanayang may kaugnayan sa sustenableng agrikultura sa bansa.   Bilang isang online na talakayan upang maisulong ang kalusugan at kamalayang pang-kapaligiran, naglalayon ang "Stories for a Better Normal" na baguhin ang kaisipan ng mga tao, mga pamilya, at mga pamayanan sa pamamagitan ng pagpapakita ng mga pamamaraan kung saan maaaring magkaroon tayo at maisasabuhay natin ang isang ‘better normal’ sa loob ng ating mga pamayanan.   Na-organisa ang online na talakayang ito mula sa pagtutulungan ng tanggapan ni Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda at ng Climate Change Commission (CCC) na binigyang-suporta naman mula sa Department of Education, Philippine Information Agency, Philippine Commission on Women, at civil society organizations na Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, The Climate Reality Project-Philippines and Mother Earth Foundation.

MANILA, 13 April 2021 — Sustainable food enthusiasts will gather again virtually for the second part of the topic, “Oh My Gulay!” to share further knowledge on plant-based diets and to raise awareness on the benefits of plant-based food to the local economy, human health and the environment on the 41st episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways.” This is the last special episode for the observance of National Food Month.   The episode, hosted by three-term Senator, now Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, will air on Thursday, 15 April 2021, 10:00 AM via Facebook Live at facebook.com/CCCPhl and facebook.com/iamlorenlegarda.   Joining the online conversation are plant-based advocates including Cherrie Atilano, Founder and CEO of AGREA Agricultural Systems International; Roni Matalog, Founder of Plants & Purpose; Chef Lilibeth “B” Camposano, Founder of The Sexy Kitchen by B; and Adolf Aguilar, Chief of Youth Formation Division of the Department of Education (DepEd).   In previous episodes, the online series tackled the importance of preserving local food heritage through sustainable diets, as well as backyard farming, food gardening, saving seeds, and planting organic fruits and vegetables the permaculture way in order to teach the public how to be self-sustainable and self-sufficient.   In this episode, Legarda and esteemed guests will further highlight plant-based diets as a holistic approach in improving the current food system, and will encourage the viewers to support and expand sustainable agricultural practices in the country.   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.

Mga panghimagas na gawa sa iba’t ibang klase ng gulay. Litrato mula sa PowerPoint presentation ni Chef Mae Viluan-Dolonis ng Studio Plantmaed. MAYNILA, ika-12 ng Abril taong 2021 — Naging tampok sa isinagawang ika-40 episode ng Seryeng “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Pathways,” na may temang “Oh My Gulay!”, ang mga pamamaraan kung paano magkakaroon ng sustenableng pagkonsumo ng pagkain sa pamamagitan ng mura at easy-to-do plant-based recipes, pati na ang kaakibat nitong malaking oportunidad at benepisyo sa usapin ng kalusugang pantao, kapaligiran, at sa ekonomiya. Pinangunahan ni Deputy Speaker at Antique Representative Loren Legarda ang nasabing online na talakayan kasama ang mga panauhin na sina Chef Mae Dolonius ng Studio Plantmade; Chef JR Royol, na host ng Farm to Table ng GMA; at Asha Peri ng Ecology of Food. Ibinahagi ng mga panauhin ang kanilang mga karanasan kung paano sila naging taga-sulong ng plant-based lifestyle, at hinikayat ang mga manonood na subukan ang plant-based diet. “During this time of the pandemic, may dalawang salita akong natutunan na sana maging convincing in transition to plant-based: asymptomatic at essential. Una, essential Alam dapat natin kung ano ang essential sa buhay natin. Pangalawa, asymptomatic. Hindi lang Covid ang asymptomatic, maraming sakit na biglang stage 4 na lang na hindi natin alam, at puwede nating maiwasan, kung ia-adopt natin ang plant-based lifestyle. Malaking tulong ito sa lahat ng pamilya natin," giit ni Chef Mae Dolonius. "Isa sa mga benepisyo ng pagkakaroon ng ganitong plataporma o pamamaraan ay ang lalo pang mapag-usapan ang benepisyo nito dahil nga itinatanong din ng marami kung ano ang magiging pakinabang nito para sa kanila? Kapag sinusubukan mong kausapin at turuan sila tungkol sa plant-based diet, lalo na ‘yung mga vegan dish o ulam, natu-turn off sila kasi 'di nila nakikita kung ano'ng kinakailangan nilang baguhin. Kaya ipinapakita natin ngayon kung ano'ng health benefits at environmental impacts. At pagkatapos, sa day-to-day na buhay ng tao, 'yung economical side din ‘yung gusto nating i-highlight. Ang paggawa ng plant-based diet ay 'di kinakailangang maging kumplikado. Ang plant-based diet ay 'di kinakailangang maging di-komportable," pahayag ni Chef JR Royol. "I-encourage na mas i-integrate pa ang plant-based diet kahit hindi agad 100%.  Importante po ang plant-based diet, eating more plants for our defense system lalo na ngayong may mga problema sa health, global crisis, environment, at climate change. At, very important ang diversity sa nutrition, kaya pinapauso ko itong undervalued and forgotten crops kasi ang daming nagsa-suffer ngayon sa malnutrition.  Kung ida-diversify natin ‘yung diet natin at kakainin 'yung mga dati nating nalilimutan, then ito ‘yung susi sa very good nutrition natin. Hindi lang sa plant-based pero suportahan din natin ang lokal nating mga industriya, tulad ng organic farmers, non-GMO movement, at i-diversify o palawakin pa ang ating diet,” ani ni Chef Asha Peri. Hinikayat naman ni Legarda ang mga manonood na bumili ng sariwang mga lokal na pagkain mula sa farmer markets at mga supply na pagkain sa lokal nating mga pamilihan, magtanim ng mga prutas at gulay sa bakuran. “Sa buong 12 months ng pandemya, actually bago pa man tayo magka-pandemya, talagang nagtatanim na ako. Talagang praktikal na magtanim sa sariling bakuran. Kung may maliit o malaking lupa, sa probinsya man o sa siyudad, mahalagang magtanim. I believe in growing my own food. I believe in sharing the food that we grow. Naniniwala ako sa batas na aking ginawa -- ang Ecological Solid Waste Management Law, kung saan kinakailangan i-segregate ang garbage, mag recycle at compost, kaya ang bote, lata, at plastic, ay pwedeng tamnan,” pagtatapos ni Legarda. Bilang isang online na talakayan upang maisulong ang kalusugan at kamalayang pang-kapaligiran, naglalayon ang "Stories for a Better Normal" na baguhin ang kaisipan ng mga tao, mga pamilya, at mga pamayanan sa pamamagitan ng pagpapakita ng mga pamamaraan kung saan maaaring magkaroon tayo at maisabuhay natin ang isang ‘better normal’ sa loob ng ating mga pamayanan.   Na-organisa ang online na talakayang ito mula sa pagtutulungan ng tanggapan ni Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda at ng Climate Change Commission (CCC) na binigyang-suporta naman ng Department of Education, Philippine Information Agency, Philippine Commission on Women, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, The Climate Reality Project-Philippines and Mother Earth Foundation.

MANILA, 12 April 2021 — Three-term Senator, now Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, filed a bill seeking to develop and implement an ecosystem and natural accounting system that applies to the Philippine environment, giving importance to the role, value, and impact of the country’s natural resources on the economy.   “For decades, the debate has been whether to choose economy over conservation of natural resources.  This is a false dichotomy. The economy and all of society are fully and entirely dependent on natural resources—our natural capital that includes our forests, wetlands, and other ecosystems,” Legarda said.   House Bill 9181, otherwise known as the Philippine Ecosystem and Natural Capital Accounting System (PENCAS) Law of 2021, will include what was formerly considered “externalities,” not valued as capital, in the national income accounts.  Conventional national income accounting systems measure economic performance by determining the value of goods and services produced in a country and aggregating them to develop economic development indicators, such as the Gross National Product (GNP) and Gross Domestic Product (GDP).   Legarda explained that “the goods and services included in this accounting system are those that are “marketed,” the prices of which are the basis for estimating the value that is then included in computing economic indicators. This methodology thus reflects the goods and services produced, sold, and bought in the economy. However, these goods and services are almost entirely reliant on the goods and services that the natural environment generates.   “Consumption benefits of products and amenities provided by the natural environment, waste disposal services, and pollution are part of producing marketed commodities but are not valuated (positively or negatively) and reflected in national income accounting.  While it is difficult to undertake this valuation, and many would say it would tend to commodify what is priceless, the lack of such valuation has led to the appreciation of these services as having zero instead of priceless value,” Legarda said.   Indicators and standards generated by the national income accounting system are considered vital information for economic management and policymaking. They serve as the basis for socio-economic planning, formulation of development programs, and policy analysis to aid legislation, among others. Legarda stressed that it is important that the national income accounts reflect a more accurate state of development and economic performance of the country and should incorporate both environmental and non-environmental economic inputs and outputs for policymakers to make responsive, relevant, and effective laws, plans, and programs necessary for national development.   “The bill, when passed into law, will allow government planners to have a full understanding of the natural capital available and expendable in the pursuit of national goals.  For instance, there has not been an accounting of whether our legally harvested sand and gravel will suffice to meet the needs of both the Build Build Build program and the demands of the private sector.  Good housekeeping requires that you budget what you have and not live beyond your means.  It is the same for national patrimony.  Not taking into account how much we have and how to allocate it drives our ecosystems to ruin. The climate crisis and biodiversity losses that could potentially lead to the next pandemic highlight the urgency of having this bill approved and implemented,” Legarda concluded.   The proposed measure adheres to the United Nations System of Environmental-Economic Accounting (SEEA), which the UN introduced in 2006 and has been continuously advancing further with the adoption of the SEEA Ecosystem Accounting in March 2001 and the UN collaborative project with other organizations on Natural Capital Accounting and Ecosystem Valuation that will end in 2021.   A Working Group of experts on environment and natural resources, economics, management, and science and technology from the Climate Crisis and Sustainable Development Network (CCSDN) and the former Sustainable Development Committee of the Management Association of the Philippines (MAP) assisted in drafting the bill. They include Dr. Marian delos Angeles, Dr. Corazon Claudio, Dr. Laura David, Ms. Maricor Ebarvia, Dr. Angelina Galang, former NEDA chief Dr. Cielito Habito, Dr. Ben Malayang, and Ms. Rina Ma. Rosales.

MANILA, 9 April 2021 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) emphasized the influential role of the media in raising the alarming issue of climate change in the country, laymanizing its complexities, and shaping opinions and engaging the public in taking urgent, and ambitious climate action. In the ‘Collab on Climate Change Fellowship’, organized by the Asian Center for Journalism at the Ateneo de Manila University and Internews’ Earth Journalism Network, the CCC, led by Commissioner Rachel Anne S. Herrera, delivered a lecture to the participating environmental journalists about the Philippine Government’s response to climate change. “The government welcomes this collaboration, such as with the media, where we can convey some of the work that we are doing and to seek your help to support us in conveying the needed messaging to more Filipinos about climate change. This pandemic has taught us that we could only achieve great things with unity. We need to have a common objective, and we need to reach out in terms of supporting those who are the most vulnerable,” said Herrera. Herrera tackled wide range of topics related to climate change which include: the international arrangements in response to climate crisis such as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC), Paris Agreement, and the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC); projected forecasts of scientists according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the Philippine Climate Change Assessment (PhiCCA) reports; the country’s response through adaptation strategies and programs; climate finance; and the future scenario of the country in pursuing these strategies. The Commissioner also discussed the issue of single-use plastics in the country, and the campaign of the government led by the CCC and the Department of Finance, in collaboration with other national government agencies, local government units, and civil society organizations to launch the “PINASiglang Mundo - Earth Day 2021 Webcast,” which aims to advocate not only the banning of single-use plastics, but also to promote sustainable consumption and production, and accelerate ecosystem restoration. Herrera then encouraged the participating journalists to support and help the government in mainstreaming the complex issue of climate change, and the programs, projects, and activities needed to act upon to reduce or adapt to its impacts. “The power to act is in our hands, so whether you’re a journalist, or from the government, or a student or a teacher, we must keep engaging everyone because no one can really escape the impacts of climate change. Each one of us can act to reduce its causes and also to adapt to it. Now that we are on this road together, we have to watch out for those who are most vulnerable and make sure they have ample protection. Kaya importante rin ang media, because you have the power to bring this knowledge across so that more people are aware that this is what awaits us, the whole of humankind, na ito naman yung susunod nating haharapin, and it will not be easy,” Herrera said.  The lone female Commissioner of the CCC also recognized that the government should foremost be accountable and transparent in all its endeavors geared towards the protection of the environment and undertake efforts to bring together stakeholders. “The government must be accountable and must be proactive in protecting the Philippines’ interest in the international frameworks, and to bring in resources to develop the right policies. But then we must work together to bring all sectors’ commitment to effectively help prepare our people, because the time really is now. We must adapt right now, we need to take wise steps, and we need to move fast, as the problem requires speed and scale.” Herrera concluded. 

Plant-based snacks from the PowerPoint presentation of Chef Mae Viluan-Dolonis of Studio Plantmaed. MANILA, 9 April 2021 — Plant-based chefs highlighted sustainable food consumption through cheap and easy-to-do plant-based recipes, and its major opportunities and benefits in terms of human health, environment, and the economy during the 40th episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Pathways,” with the topic “Oh My Gulay!” The online conversation hosted by three-term Senator, now Deputy Speaker and Antique Representative Loren Legarda, featured sustainable food enthusiasts including Chef Mae Dolonius of Studio Plantmaed; Chef JR Royol, Host of GMA’s Farm to Table; and Asha Peri of Ecology of Food. The guests shared their journey on becoming plant-based advocates, and encouraged the viewers to switch to sustainable and a healthy lifestyle through plant-based diets. “During this time of the pandemic, may dalawang word akong natutunan na sana maging convincing in transition to plant-based - asymptomatic and essential. One, essential. Alam dapat natin kung ano ang essential sa buhay natin. Second, asymptomatic. Hindi lang Covid ang asymptomatic, maraming sakit na biglang stage 4 na lang na hindi natin alam, at pwede nating ma-prevent kung sana ia-adopt natin ang plant-based lifestyle. Malaking tulong ito sa lahat ng pamilya natin," said Chef Mae. "One of the benefits of having this kind of platform or avenue to talk more about the benefits of it is because 'what's in it for them?' When you try to talk about plant-based diet, lalo na ‘yung mga vegan dishes, natu-turn off sila, kasi they don't see what they need to change. So we're pointing at the health benefits and environmental impacts. And then, in a day-to-day person's life, yung economical side din ‘yung gusto nating i-highlight. Doing a plant-based diet should not be complicated. A plant-based diet should not be uncomfortable," said Chef JR. "I-encourage na mas i-integrate pa ang plant-based diet kahit hindi 100%.  Importante po ang plant-based diet, eating more plants for our defense system lalo na ngayong may mga problema sa heath, global crisis, environment, at climate change ay makakatulong talaga ang plant-based diet. At very important ang diversity sa nutrition, kaya pinapa-uso ko itong mga undervalued and forgotten crops kasi andaming nagsa-suffer ngayon sa malnutrition, kung ida-diversify natin ‘yung diet natin at kainin yung mga dati nating nalilimutan, then ito ‘yung key sa very good nutrition natin. Hindi lang sa plant-based, but let's also support local industry, organic farmers, NGO movement, and diversify our diet,” said Peri. Legarda then urged the viewers to patronize local, plant-based, and in-season foods, purchase fresh local foods from farmer markets and food supplies from the local market, and to grow fruits and vegetables in our own backyards. “Sa buong 12 months ng pandemic, actually way before the pandemic, talagang nagtatanim na ako. Talagang praktikal na magtanim sa sariling bakuran, kung may maliit o malaking lupa, sa probinsya man o sa siyudad, mahalagang magtanim. I believe in growing my own food, I believe in sharing the food that we grow, I believe in my law, the Ecological Solid Waste Management Law, which is to segregate garbage at source, recycle and compost, so ang bote, lata, at plastic, ay pwedeng tamnan,” Legarda concluded. 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, 7 April 2021 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) encourages all Filipinos to join in the global call for strengthened and unified actions to nurture the Earth in celebration of the Month of Planet Earth this April.   April of every year is declared as the Month of Planet Earth by virtue of Proclamation No. 1482, s. 2008, and throughout the month, various sectors celebrate with activities aimed at raising awareness and strengthening programs to protect and save the planet from environmental degradation and to ensure a sustainable future for all.   With the theme, “Doing our Fair Share to Restore the Earth,” this year’s celebration calls for sustainable and resilient recovery not only from COVID-19, but also from the escalating climate-related disaster risks.   While looking for efficient ways to put a stop to the rise of COVID-19 cases and providing aid to the Filipinos who were severely affected by the pandemic, we must not pull back from continued climate action.   The CCC recalls that within a year into the pandemic, the world has witnessed rampant wildlife trade and continued environmental exploitation which has stalled the socioeconomic growth of most countries around the globe and poses threat to health, food and human security.   Recognizing that climate action is one of the pillars of swift and sustainable recovery, the CCC said that the people and the communities’ capacity to respond, adapt, and recover from emerging threats must be ensured and enhanced.   With this, the CCC urges all sectors to frame and implement green recovery to sustain climate action momentum while addressing the impacts of the pandemic.  The climate body also strongly calls for collaboration and recognition of the collective responsibility among the people and the government to activate and enhance emergency response systems to build inclusive and sustainable economies that are more resilient to challenges like COVID-19 and climate change.   As the Philippines and countries across the world face a daunting challenge in the midst of COVID-19, the CCC stresses that only a green pandemic recovery can be sustained in the long term to protect the most vulnerable communities and sectors.

MAYNILA, ika-7 ng Abril taong 2021 — Hihimay-himayin virtually ng mga plant-based chefs ang kanilang kaalaman ukol sa diyetang mula sa mga luntiang mga halaman at gulay, at nang maiangat ang kamalayan sa kaugnayan ng pagkain at pagbabago ng klima ngayong ika-40 episode ng seryeng "Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways,” na may temang “Oh My Gulay!" Mapapanood ang episode na ito ngayong Huwebes ika- 08 ng Abril 2021, 10:00 AM sa Facebook live.   Kasama ni Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda na host ng online na talakayan ang mga mahihilig magluto ng sustenableng mga pagkain na sina Chef Mae Dolonius ng Studio Plantmade; Chef JR Royol, host ng GMA7 show na Farm to Table; at si Asha Peri ng Ecology of Food upang pag-usapan ang mga easy-to-do  na plant-based recipes.   Matatandaang sa nakaraang mga episode, tinalakay sa online serye ang kahalagahan ng pangangalaga natin sa ating lokal na mga pamanang pagkain sa pamamagitan ng sustenableng mga diyeta, pati na rin ang pagtatanim sa likod-bakuran, food gardening, pag-iipon ng mga binhi, at organikong pagtatanim ng mga prutas at mga gulay sa pamamaraang permaculture upang maipakita kung paano tayo maging self-sustainable at self-sufficient.   Para naman sa episode na ito, bibigyang-diin ni Deputy Speaker Legarda at ng kanyang mga panauhin kung paano makatutulong ang balanced diet, sa pamamagitan ng mga pagkaing hango sa luntiang halaman at gulay, na mapagaan ang epekto ng climate change at mga maaaring panganib na maidudulot nito.   Nagbabadya ng banta sa ating food security ang climate change. Mga tag-tuyot, pagbaha, pagtaas ng sea level, at mga matinding kaganapan sa klima na siyang nakaaapekto sa ating mga pananim at paghahayupan. Sa pandaigdigang kalagayan, tinatayang aabot sa 18% ang kabuuang greenhouse gas emissions na kaugnay sa livestock at pagkain ng karne. Dagdag pa rito, kapag kinakailangang i-biyahe pa ng malayong distansya ang pagkain bago pa man ito makarating sa hapag-kainan ng konsyumer, gagamit pa ito ng mas maraming enerhiya para lang sa transportasyon at preserbasyon, kung saan magdudulot pa ng mas malaking carbon emissions.   Bukod dito, ipinagdiriwang ang Filipino Food Month tuwing Abril alinsunod sa Presidential Proclamation 469 na nilagdaan noong 2018, na naglalayong siguruhin na ang culinary traditions at treasures ng bansa ay napahahalagahan, napapangalagaan, at naitataguyod upang masigurog maipapasa ito sa susunod pa nating mga salinglahi at nang masuportahan ang iba't iba nating mga industriya, mga magsasaka, at mga komunidad na pang-agrikulturang nakikinabang dito.   Sa pagdiriwang natin ng Filipino Food Month, makatutulong sa mga manonood ang paparating na episode upang kanilang maunawaan na nasa ating mga kamay ang pagtugon sa climate change – sa pamamagitan ng pagtangkilik ng lokal na mga luntiang halamang gulay at napapanahong mga pagkain, ang pagbili ng sariwang lokal na mga pagkain mula sa farmer markets at food supplies mula sa lokal na mga pamilihan, at pagtatanim ng prutas at gulay sa ating mga bakuran.   Bilang isang online na talakayan upang maisulong ang kalusugan at kamalayang pang-kapaligiran, naglalayon ang "Stories for a Better Normal" na baguhin ang kaisipan ng mga tao, mga pamilya, at mga pamayanan sa pamamagitan ng pagpapakita ng mga pamamaraan kung saan maaaring magkaroon tayo at maisasabuhay natin ang isang ‘better normal’ sa loob ng ating mga pamayanan.   Na-organisa ang online na talakayang ito mula sa pagtutulungan ng tanggapan ni Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda at ng Climate Change Commission (CCC) na binigyang-suporta naman mula sa Department of Education, Philippine Information Agency, Philippine Commission on Women, at civil society organizations na Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, The Climate Reality Project-Philippines and Mother Earth Foundation.