MANILA, 07 September 2021 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) stresses the importance of literacy in recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic and improving the quality of life, in celebration of International Literacy Day tomorrow.   September 8th is declared as International Literacy Day by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to remind the public of the importance of literacy as a matter of dignity and human rights, and to advance the literacy agenda towards a more sustainable society.   This year’s theme, “Literacy for a human-centered recovery: Narrowing the digital divide,” is an opportunity to reimagine the future of literacy teaching and learning, within and beyond the context of the pandemic. The COVID-19 crisis has disrupted the learning of children, young people and adults at an unprecedented scale. It has also magnified the pre-existing inequalities in access to meaningful literacy learning opportunities.   Even in times of global crisis, we must exert efforts to find alternative ways to ensure the continuity of learning. The rapid shift to online learning also highlights the persistent digital divide in terms of connectivity and the ability to engage with technology, as well as disparities in other services such as access to electricity in remote areas.   The CCC said that the current pandemic should be a reminder of the critical importance of literacy. It is an integral part of education and lifelong learning premised on humanism as defined by the Sustainable Development Goal 4. Therefore, literacy is crucial to a human-centered recovery from the COVID-19 crisis.   Aside from recovery, literacy is also important in understanding the fundamental relationship between climate and human life and the many ways in which climate has always played a role in human health. The CCC said that all sectors of society must have a good understanding of climate science to be better prepared to respond to its unprecedented impacts (Adaptation), and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (Mitigation).   Technology-enabled literacy learning must be inclusive and meaningful to contribute to building a solid foundation for a human-centered recovery from pandemic and climate crisis, leaving no one behind.

MANILA, 7 September 2021 — The 61st episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways” will feature the stories and narratives of people strengthening their efforts and implementing risk resiliency programs to address the impacts of climate change in their communities through the Cash-for-Work project of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).   The online conversation, conceptualized and hosted by three-term former Senator, now Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, will air on Thursday, 9 September 2021, 10:00 AM via Facebook Live at facebook.com/CCCPhl and facebook.com/iamlorenlegarda.   Joining the online conversation are Ma. Victoria P. Morelos, Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officer (MSWDO) from Bulakan, Bulacan; Jayson Salenga, Site Manager of Sasmuan Pampanga Coastal Wetlands; Jowey C. Celzo, MSWDO from Anda, Pangasinan; and    Jenny Gandaloza Ontok, President of the Muslim Women’s Rural Worker Association in Matalam, North Cotabato.   The DSWD implements the Risk Resiliency Program through the Cash-for-Work modality to increase the adaptive capacities of the poor families in disaster-prone and affected communities.   Cash-for-Work under the Risk Resiliency Program is a short-term intervention to provide temporary employment to distressed/ displaced individuals by participating in preparedness, mitigation, relief, rehabilitation or risk reduction projects and activities in their communities.   The upcoming episode will feature stories of how short-term income generating interventions, through the Cash-for-Work project, have opened up opportunities for disaster-stricken communities to be more resilient to the adverse effects of disasters and climate change.   The episode shall also promote practical measures to build community resilience such as planting trees, mangrove reforestation, establishment of community food gardens, and exploring sustainable livelihood opportunities.   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, 06 September 2021 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) emphasizes the direct relationship between air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, in celebration of International Day of Clean Air for blue skies tomorrow.   September 7th of every year is declared as the International Day of Clean Air for blue skies through United Nations Resolution 74/212 adopted in December 2019 to promote actions to improve air quality, bearing in mind that clean air is important for people's health and livelihood.   This year’s theme, “Healthy Air, Healthy Planet” emphasizes the health aspects of air pollution, in the unique context of the COVID-19 pandemic. This year’s observance focuses on prioritizing the need for healthy air for all, while keeping the conversation broad enough to encompass other critical issues such as climate change, human and planetary health, and the Sustainable Development Goals.   Аir pollution is among the greatest environmental risks to human health. Estimated millions of premature deaths across the world are attributed to indoor and outdoor air pollution.   Particularly in developing countries, air pollution disproportionately affects women, children, and the elderly, especially in low-income populations as they are often exposed to high levels of ambient air pollution, and indoor air pollution from cooking and heating with wood fuel and kerosene.   However, air pollution is also one of the main avoidable causes of death and disease globally.   Short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs) are among those pollutants most linked with both health effects and near-term warming of the planet. SLCPs persist in the atmosphere for as little as few days or up to a few decades, so reducing them can have an almost immediate health and climate benefits.   In the face of global challenges like climate change, air pollution, social and economic inequalities, and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the CCC said that ensuring cleaner air is imperative in our goal to build back better.   The climate body acknowledges that improving air quality can enhance climate change mitigation, and that climate change mitigation efforts can improve air quality. It means that many actions and policies that reduce air pollution also reduce greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change.   These same measures can be leveraged to put greater ambition in the implementation and enhancement of our Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) or national climate targets. The benefits of cleaner air may thus incentivize actions that complement the motivation to help achieve the worldwide goal to limit global temperature rise to well below 1.5 degrees Celsius, humanity's survival threshold.

Programang pang-solid waste management ng Parañaque upang mabawasan ang problema sa kalat at plastic pollution.  Litrato mula sa presentasyon ni Engr. Ma. Teresa Quioge, Supervising Environmental Specialist mula sa City Environment and Natural Resources Office of Parañaque. MAYNILA, ika-6 ng  Setyembre 2021 —  Alinsunod sa pagdiriwang natin ng National Clean-Up Month ngayong Setyembre, sa ika-60 na episode ng seryeng “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways” itinampok ang ilang mga programa ng ating local governments at pribadong sector upang makatulong sa pagbabawas ng paggamit ng single-use plastics at makaiwas sa plastic pollution. Kasama rin ang pagtalakay sa bagong pasang House Bill 39147 o ang Single-use Plastic Products Regulation Act sa kamara.   Ang Stories for a Better Normal ay hango sa konsepto ng dating three-term Senator, ngayo’y Deputy Speaker at Antique Representative Loren Legarda, at katuwang si Atty. Ipat Luna bilang co-host. Tampok sa episode ang mga panauhing sina Engr. Ma. Teresa Quiogue, Supervising Environmental Management Specialist mula sa Parañaque City Environment & Natural Resources Office; Mr. Vincent Alon, Muntinlupa City Head of Solid Waste Management Research & Training Division; Mr. Saar Herman, Chief Technology Officer ng Green Antz Builders, Inc.; at si Ms. Mharee Lynn Guillena mula sa National Clean Up Day Coalition Philippines.   "Huwag na tayong maghintay na matapos ang pandemic bago tayo sumunod sa warning o alarm ng ating planeta. Nakikita natin ang epekto nito sa ating mga buhay at kabuhayan, at sinasabi na ng mga eksperto sa agham na lalala pa ito,” iginiit ni Atty Ipat Luna.   Ibinahagi ng City Environment & Natural Resources Office ng Parañaque ang kanilang best practices at solid waste management programs kasama na rito ang deployment ng Bantay Kalikasan; CENRO at ng City MRF Operations; “Zero Plastics Sa Landfill” Project; “Upcycling” Livelihood Project; Plastic Ordinance Implementation; at Order Ni M.R.S.   “Waste management is a shared responsibility. Ito po ay hindi responsibilidad lang ng gobyerno, let us all be responsible sa sari-sarili nating waste,” sabi ni Quiogue.   Ibinahagi din ng local government ng Lungsod ng Muntinlupa ang kanilang mga solid waste management programs, tulad ng Bring-Your-Own-Bag (BYOB) Program.   “’Yung mga programang para sa ikabubuti at ikaaayos ng kalikasan, hindi na dapat natin itong pagtalunan, bagkus ay dapat natin itong pagtulungan,” sabi ni Alon.   Ipinakilala ni Mr. Saar Herman ang Green Antz building at housing solutions na nag-i integrate ng mga eco-friendly practices at green technologies sa kanilang mga produkto at mga serbisyo. Katambal nila rito ang private sector at mga local governments upang labanan ang plastic pollution at mabawasan ang mga basurang napupunta sa mga landfills, sa pamamagitan ng pag set-up ng isang recycling facility na syang magpo-process ng biodegradable wastes para maging composts, at plastics para maging eco-bricks.   “Dahil nga ang climate change ay tunay na nagbabadya at totoong agarang panganib sa kapakanan nating lahat, talaga ngang makatutulong kung gagawin nating lahat ang ating makakaya para harapin at matugunan ito, tulad ng pagbabawal natin sa plastic at mga basura. Sa isang bansa na tulad ng Pilipinas, kinakailangang maunawaan ang lawak ng bantang kinakatawan ng climate change at kung ano ang kinakailangan para tayo'y magtulungan at magkaisa,” sabi ni Herman.   Ibinahagi ni Ms. Mharee Lynn Guillena ang kanilang mga pagkilos sa mga usaping ukol sa ocean garbage at water waste na suportado ng grassroots campaigns. Bukod pa sa mga cleanup, nagko-kolekta din sila ng single-use plastics para lang mai-convert ang mga ito sa eco-bricks, pati narin ang pag o-organisa ng mga eco-brick workshops at online webinars.   “Huwag nating pabayaang wasakin, pagharian, at patayin tayo ng mga plastics. Magkaisa tayong lahat at pagwagian ang laban sa plastics,” sabi ni Guillena.   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 bawat Pilipino at pamayanan sa mga hamon ng climate change at ng pandemya, tungo sa buhay na maka-kalikasan at sustainable sa ilalim ng ‘better normal’.   Na-organisa ang online na talakayang mula sa ugnayan ng tanggapan ni Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda at ng CCC, na binigyang-suporta naman ng Department of Education at Philippine Information Agency, at ng civil society organizations na Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, The Climate Reality Project-Philippines at Mother Earth Foundation.

Solid waste management program of the City of Parañaque to reduce waste and plastic pollution in the city. Photo from the presentation of Engr. Ma. Teresa Quiogue, Supervising Environmental Management Specialist from the City Environment & Natural Resources Office of Parañaque. MANILA, 03 September 2021 —  In celebration of the National Clean-Up Month this September, the 60th episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways” featured local governments’ and private sector’s initiatives to help reduce single-use plastics and prevent plastic pollution. This was also in time for the passage of House Bill 9147 or the Single-use Plastic Products Regulation Act in the third and final reading in the House of Representatives. The online conversation conceptualized and hosted by three-term Senator, now Deputy Speaker and Antique Representative Loren Legarda, with co-host Atty. Ipat Luna, featured guests including Engr. Ma. Teresa Quiogue, Supervising Environmental Management Specialist from the City Environment & Natural Resources Office of Parañaque; Mr. Vincent Alon, Head of Solid Waste Management Research & Training Division of the local government of Muntinlupa City; Mr. Saar Herman, Chief Technology Officer of Green Antz Builders, Inc.; and Ms. Mharee Lynn Guillena from the National Clean Up Day Coalition Philippines. "Huwag na tayong maghintay na matapos ang pandemic bago tayo sumunod sa warning o alarm ng ating planeta. Nakikita natin ang epekto nito sa ating mga buhay at kabuhayan, at sinasabi na ng mga eksperto sa agham na lalala pa ito,” Atty. Luna emphasized. The City Environment & Natural Resources Office of Parañaque shared their best practices and solid waste management programs including the deployment of Bantay Kalikasan; CENRO and City MRF Operations; “Zero Plastics Sa Landfill” Project; “Upcycling” Livelihood Project; Plastic Ordinance Implementation; and Order Ni M.R.S. “Waste management is a shared responsibility. Ito po ay hindi responsibilidad lang ng gobyerno, let us all be responsible sa sari-sarili nating waste,” said Engr. Quiogue.   The local government of Muntinlupa City also shared its solid waste management programs, including the Bring-Your-Own-Bag (BYOB) Program. “’Yung mga programang para sa ikabubuti at ikaaayos ng kalikasan, hindi na dapat natin itong pagtalunan, bagkus ay dapat natin itong pagtulungan,” said Mr. Alon. Mr. Herman introduced Green Antz Builders, an organization that provides building and housing solutions that integrate eco-friendly practices and green technologies in its products and services. They partnered with the private sector and local governments to combat plastic pollution and reduce the waste going to landfills through setting up a recycling facility that would process biodegradable wastes to composts, and plastics to eco-bricks. “Since climate change is such an imminent and immediate danger to our well-being, it will be very helpful if we can put up as many resources to try to tackle it, like the prevention of plastic and wastes as part of prevention of the effects of climate change. But definitely, in a place like the Philippines, we need the entire system to understand the amount of threat that this represents and the amount of help needed to work together,” said Mr. Herman. Ms. Guillena shared their advocacy of promoting and creating awareness in taking action on issues with ocean garbage and water waste, as well as green programs and grassroots campaigns. Apart from cleanup programs, they also collect single- use plastics to convert them into eco-bricks, as well as organize eco-bricks workshops and online webinars. “Let us not allow plastics to rule us, destroy us, and kill us. Let us all unite and win this war against plastics,” said Ms. Guillena. 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 a 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, 02 September 2021 — The Climate Change Commission stresses the need to strengthen science policy research to help Filipinos tackle the twin crises of the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change as the country observes the 19th Development Policy Research Month (DPRM) from September 1 to 30.   The 19th DPRM’s theme, “Reset and Rebuild for a Better Philippines in the Post-Pandemic World”, echoes the imperative to rebuild from the crippling effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and create a better Philippines, and the needed shift from business-as-usual paradigms and practices to place equal importance on economic, social, and environmental well-being and sustainability through science- and evidence-based policy research.   Science policy research is critical in crafting effective strategies and pathways to addressing the pandemic and the climate crisis, both of which pose great threats to the lives and livelihoods of Filipinos.   For years, policy research has played an important contribution to climate change policy development. As climate change continues to pose risks to human health, ecosystems, social and cultural systems, and economic growth, timely and useful climate information is critical to help policymakers and leaders make informed decisions. Policy research and climate projections also enable nations to prepare and avert the adverse effects of climate change way ahead. The same must be undertaken now to enable Filipinos to bounce back better from the COVID-19 pandemic.   Given this, and in observance of the DPRM, the CCC calls on all government agencies and local government units to anchor the development and implementation of policies and programs on scientific policy research. It also encourages all policymakers and decision-makers to always heed the call of science and aim for the creation of an informed and inclusive recovery plan to swiftly rebuild the country into a post-pandemic nation that is equitable, sustainable, and resilient.   The CCC likewise calls on the public to voice out stronger support for the research sector as it seeks to build sustainability, inclusivity, and resilience at both the local and national levels.   Proclamation No. 246, series of 2002 declared September of every year as Development Policy Research Month, with the goal of cultivating a strong culture of research and use of data and evidence among the country’s national and local decision-makers in policymaking and program planning, along with raising the public’s grasp of important socioeconomic issues. The Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) leads the coordination of all programmed activities for the entire month.

MANILA, 02 September 2021 — The Climate Change Commission highlighted the important role of the private sector in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and achieving the country’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) to the Paris Agreement during a workshop on corporate governance and environmental impact and risk management held on August 27.   Citing the latest report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, CCC Commissioner Rachel Anne Herrera noted that “there’s a need to reduce GHG emissions in order to limit further global warming and also to mitigate impacts of climate change that are expected to become more severe and more frequent, and in some cases, irreversible.”   “We may actually breach the 1.5˚Celsius limit—which we consider as our climate threshold for survival—within 20 years, unless we reduce our GHG emissions at a rapid, immediate, and widespread scale,” she noted in her discussion on expectations from the private sector in connection with the country’s GHG emissions reduction targets.   The workshop is the fourth session of the Corporate Governance and Sustainability Workshop Series organized by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) with the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI).   Other resource speakers included Michael Salvatico, S&P Global Head of Environmental, Social, and Governance Business Development for Asia-Pacific, who discussed what investors track in companies regarding GHG emissions; GRI Country Manager Katreena Pillejera, who discussed GRI standards and provided an overview of GHG emissions calculation; Jo Ann Eala, BPI Vice President for Sustainable Development Finance; and Arlene Tan-Bantoto and Maria Christine Garcia of Nestle Philippines, who shared company "Net Zero" initiatives. The workshop was moderated by Lany Harijanti, ASEAN Regional Program Manager of GRI.      As part of its work towards achieving the Paris Agreement’s goal to limit global warming to 1.5˚C, the Philippines submitted its NDC this year, which, Herrera explained, communicates “a 75% GHG emission reduction and avoidance for the period 2020 to 2030 for the sectors of agriculture, waste, industry, transport, and energy.”   Herrera emphasized the crucial role of the private sector in achieving this NDC, especially through mobilizing investments and conducting GHG emissions inventories, which can help government develop better climate actions and business models.   “The NDC promotes the full engagement of the private sector in the achievement of our emissions reduction target, recognizing your role as the country’s main engine of economic growth and transformation. We see major areas of partnership, primarily in mobilizing climate investments and the conduct of GHG inventories,” Herrera said.   Herrera also highlighted the key role of the private sector in building momentum especially in the shift towards renewable energy.   “Publicly-listed companies have a critical role in sustaining this momentum and further enabling the transformation, for the energy sector, and across all sectors,” she noted. “Through this workshop, we hope that companies would further see the value of sustainability reporting, not just from a business perspective, but also in terms of their potential to contribute to our country’s goals on sustainability and resilience, as embodied in our NDC and other national plans,” Herrera concluded.

MANILA, 01 September 2021 — The Climate Change Commission joined Watsons Philippines’ 1st Do Good Webinar, which highlighted the need to shift towards sustainability amid a worsening climate crisis.   “The world today is in an emergency,” said Watsons Public Relations and Sustainability Director Viki Encarnacion during the webinar, which is part of the retailer’s Look Good, Do Good, Feel Great Sustainability Campaign.   “Climate change is not just an issue for the future, it’s an urgent issue today. And we need everyone’s help in making responsible, sustainable choices,” she added.   “Zooming out from the day-to-day concerns and threats of COVID, and refocusing on the extreme weather conditions that we experience and also see around the world, it is clear that runaway climate change is already here. We’ve seen the devastating droughts, wildfires, heatwaves, and also flooding and landslides across the U.S., in Europe, Africa, and Asia-Pacific and the Philippines,” said Commissioner Rachel Herrera, who presented sustainability frameworks and measures on behalf of the CCC.   “We are already feeling climate impacts all over the world. By word of the world’s scientists, many of these impacts are already irreversible due to the planet’s rapid warming,” Herrera added.   “As climate scientists have pointed out, we have a goal to limit warming to 1.5˚C goal, which can only be achieved if we do a massive shift to sustainability in consumption,” she emphasized.   During her discussion, Herrera highlighted the importance of collective movement towards sustainability, and of individual actions that add up, including reducing food waste, reducing plastic use, and repairing and refilling instead of buying new, among others.   “We have all contributed to global warming and even environmental degradation; but in the same way, we are all part or stakeholders in the solution,” she added.   “The problem is too enormous, and we need everyone to get involved,” Encarnacion added. For its part, Watsons also highlighted its commitments under its sustainability vision.   “With this current crisis, we place full support for the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals set up a few years ago. As the world’s largest international health and beauty retailer, we feel a strong sense of responsibility to help create a better world through our global operations,” Encarnacion said.   “We also aim to fight climate change with forest protection and clean ocean initiatives, and to reduce our environmental footprint,” she added.   Watsons’ commitment, according to Encarnacion, includes reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 40%, reducing electricity intensity by 30%, and targeting to offset 2,250 tons of carbon dioxide emissions.

MAYNILA, ika-31 ng Agosto 2021 — Sa ika-59 na episode ng “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Pathways”, itinampok ang patuloy na pagkilos ng local government units at national government agencies upang maisulong ang konsepto ng sustainable urban mobility sa Metro Manila.   Ang online na talakayan, na hango sa konsepto ng dating three-term Senator, at ngayo’y Deputy Speaker at Antique Representative Loren Legarda, ay dinaluhan ng mga panauhin na sina Mayor Joy Belmonte ng Quezon City; Robert Anthony Siy III, Transport Head mula Pasig City; Brian Geli, Information Officer mula San Juan City; Atty. Odilon Luis Pasaraba, Assistant Secretary mula Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG); Eldon Joshua Dionisio, Senior Transportation Development Officer mula Department of Transportation (DOTr); Michael Salalima, Head Executive Assistant mula Office of the Chairman ng Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA); at Aldrin Pelicano, Founder ng MNL Moves. Kabilang din sa mga dumalo si Red Constantino, Executive Director ng Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities (ICSC), biliang co-host ng programa.   “Sinimulan natin ang mobility discussions early last year and it's taking only a few months, a year to produce a revolution that's underway, kasi ang mode natin ay tulong-tulong. Huwag kalimutan ang bayanihan, huwag kalimutang mangarap. Pero ang pangarap ay hindi mangyayari kung hindi natin ito inasikaso, at ‘pag hindi tayo nakialam,” sabi ni Red Constantino.   Ang mga local government units ng Quezon City, Pasig City, at San Juan City ay nag-present ng kani-kaniyang mga stratehiya sa pagbibigay ng active mobility at non-motorized mainstream modes ng transportasyon sa nakararami na hindi lamang safe at functional, kundi efficient at environmentally-sustainable rin.   “Mayroon tayong core values para sa active transport at sustainable mobility program: Kailangan ito ay comprehensive, climate-smart, equitable, convenient, at accessible. Sa loob ng programang ito; mayroon tayong bicycle lane network o ang QC bike lanes; mayroon tayong isinasaayos na mga pathways o GORA lane upang maisulong ang walkability at pedestrianization; mayroon tayong  electric transport; at mayroon ding integrated at planned city bus system na libre para sa lahat ng gustong sumakay sa ating bus – hindi lamang para sa mga residente ng Quezon City, kundi para na rin sa lahat ng may pakay sa Quezon City na nangangailangang sumakay gamit ang aming transport system,” sabi ni Mayor Belmonte.   “Ang Pasig Transport Office ay nagde-develop at nag o-operate ng mga transportation solutions na naglalayong ma-improve ang mobility at maitaguyod ang iba't-ibang sustainable forms ng transportasyon sa buong lungsod. Inihahatid nito ang sustainable transportation agenda ng Lungsod ng Pasig para sa walking, cycling, at mass public transport,” sabi ni Siy.   “Noong nakaraang taon, nagsimula kami ng walang bike lanes. Pero noong June 3, 2020, World Bike Day, nangako kaming mag-bigay ng  ligtas at praktikal na bike lanes di lamang para sa mga San Juaneños, kundi para na rin sa lahat ng dumadaan sa aming lungsod. Mula 0 hanggang 5 kilometro noong aming mobility awards, na ngayo’y 8.8 kilometro ng bike lanes. Ang Lungsod ng San Juan ay napaka-liit, kami'y umaabot lamang ng mahigit-kumulang 5.94 square kilometers sa lawak, kaya medyo maikli at maliit lang ang aming bike lanes. Gayunpaman, nangangako kaming makapag-bigay ng healthier at mas sustainable na mobility para sa lahat ng taga Metro Manila, lalung-lalo na sa mga San Juaneños,” sabi ni Geli.   Ibinahagi ni Aldrin Pelicano ang resulta ng volunteer pedestrian at bicycle count, na kilala din bilang Metro Manila Counts.   “Ngayon, higit pa noong una, kailangan gawing permanenteng bahagi ng programa ng MMDA, katulong ng LGUs, ang pagbibilang. Kapag sila'y nagbilang, kapag nakuha nila ang bilang ng mga taong nagbibisikleta, mas madali ang paggawa ng karagdagang investment. Ito ang objective ng Metro Manila Counts, ang makapag-simula ng mga pag-uusap para maisulong ang policy at infrastructure improvements,” sabi ni Pelicano.   Ibinahagi ng mga representatives mula sa national government agencies ang kani-kanilang pananaw at nagpahayag ng suporta sa nai-presentang mga stratehiya sa pagsasagawa ng bicycle masterplans.   "Masaya naming maibabahagi na 457 Local Government Units (LGUs) sa baseline na 1059 LGUs o 43% ay nakapag-designate na ng specific units, offices, o personnel na itinalaga para sa pagpapatupad ng mga active transport initiatives sa kani-kanilang areas of jurisdiction. Ito ay isang malaking hakbang tungo sa tamang direksyon dahil nabibigyan nito ang mga LGUs ng kinakailangang institutional capacity para masuportahan at maitaguyod ang active transport sa mga darating na taon,” sabi ni Atty. Pasaraba.   “Malugod na susuportahan ng DOTr ang mga movements at initiatives na ito. Nais naming kilalanin na ang movement na makapag-tataguyod ng active transportation na nakapaloob sa buong transportation system ay isang whole government and society approach. Na sadya talagang makatutulong ang initiatives ng LGUs, lalung-lalo na ang establishment ng mga bike lane networks. Totoong nakadaragdag-tulong ito sa intercity bike lane network na itinayo't ginawa ng DPWH, kasama ng DOTr, sa pamamagitan ng Bayanihan 2 Law. Ito ang nakapagbibigay ng last-mile connectivity at accessibility sa ating bike commuters papunta at pabalik sa kani-kanyang mga bahay,” sabi ni Dionisio.   “Sa amin po sa MMDA, kasama ng iba pang mga government agencies - DOTr, DPWH, at DILG, ito ay isang whole government approach at ang ginagawa namin ngayon ay suportahan ang iba’t-ibang initiatives ng mga local government units sa usapin ng pagkakaroon nila ng bike lane networks sa inner roads ng kani-kanilang locality,” sabi ni Salalima.   Noong nakaraang taon, hinikayat ni Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda ang mga miyembro ng Metro Manila Council at national government agencies concerned na ideklara ang cycling bilang essential mode of transportation at sikaping makagawa ng dedicated at protected bike lanes na magdudugtong sa mga lungsod ng Metro Manila.   Para lalo pang maitaguyod ang sustainable urban mobility sa Metro Manila, hinikayat ni Deputy Speaker Legarda ang mga panauhing LGUs at NGAs na magtanim ng mga native trees sa nakalaang mga green spaces sa mga lungsod.   “Hindi lamang mga protected at permanent bike lanes ang kailamgang maging bahagi ng ating adbokasiya, kundi pati narin ang mga green spaces na akma sa mga lungsod ng Metro Manila, at ng Pilipinas. Huwag magtanim ng mga imported species, ng mga exotic na mahirap i-maintain, dapat ay ‘yung mga punong mabubuhay sa matinding dumi ng hangin at tindi ng ulan," sabi ni Deputy Speaker Loren 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 bawat Pilipino at pamayanan sa mga hamon ng climate change at ng pandemya, tungo sa buhay na maka-kalikasan at sustainable sa ilalim ng ‘better normal’.   Na-organisa ang online na talakayang ito mula sa pagtutulungan ng tanggapan ni dating three-term Senator na ngayo'y Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda at ng Climate Change Commission na binigyang-suporta ng Department of Education, Philippine Information Agency, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, The Climate Reality Project-Philippines at ng Mother Earth Foundation.

MANILA, 31 August 2021 —  Representatives from the public and private sectors will gather virtually to promote the regulation of single-use plastics as well as the strict implementation of ecological solid waste management on the 60th episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways,” with the topic, “Time to Clean Up!” The episode is organized in celebration of the National Clean Up Month.   The online conversation, conceptualized and hosted by three-term former Senator, now Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, will air on Thursday, 2 September 2021, 10:00 AM via Facebook Live at facebook.com/CCCPhl and facebook.com/iamlorenlegarda.   Joining the online conversation are Mr. Vincent Alon, Head of Solid Waste Management Research & Training Division of the local government of Muntinlupa City; Mr. Saar Herman, Chief Technology Officer of Green Antz Builders, Inc.; and Ms. Mharee Lynn Guillena of the National Clean Up Day Coalition.   The month of September is declared as the National Clean-Up Month by virtue of Proclamation No. 244, while the Presidential Proclamation No. 470 designates the 3rd Saturday of September, 18 September, as National Clean-Up Day, both of which act as a campaign to encourage communities to be responsive in cleaning and protecting the environment.   The Philippines is known for its rich marine ecosystems but is also one of the major sources of plastic trash in the world, contributing almost three million metric tons of plastic wastes and 500,000 metric tons of plastic waste leakage per year.   Single-use plastic does not only pose pollution problems, its production and incineration contribute to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, hence, to climate change.   According to the Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives (GAIA), Filipinos use 59.7 billion pieces of sachets, 17.5 billion pieces of shopping bags, 16.5 billion pieces of plastic labo bag, and 1.1 billion diapers yearly.   The COVID-19 pandemic has even magnified the problem on single-use plastics as people needed to ensure safety standards that will minimize contamination and further spread of the virus. This has led to utilizing easily disposable items, such as those used for food and other deliveries.   The upcoming episode will feature local government and private sector initiatives to help reduce single-use plastics and promote ways on how to prevent plastic pollution in everyday life, following the passage of the House Bill 9147 or the Single-use Plastic Products Regulation Act in the third and final reading in the House of Representatives. The episode is also a way to urgently call for the passage of its counterpart measure in the Senate.   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 August 2021 — In commemoration of National Heroes’ Day, the Climate Change Commission (CCC) honors not only our historical heroes, but also modern-day frontliners who are tirelessly serving in the midst of the health and climate crises.   The country observes National Heroes' Day today to remember known and unknown heroes of the revolution who laid the foundation for the country's independence following centuries of colonization.   This day also commemorates the Cry of Pugad Lawin, a revolt that sparked the 1896 Philippine Revolution against the Spanish empire, along with the long fight of Filipinos for freedom.   Our courageous and selfless Filipino heroes fought for peace, justice, and the country's independence more than a century ago. However, in today's world, Filipinos face a new battle: continuing essential work and public service under tremendous risk due to the threat of the COVID-19 virus, and those who are tenaciously fighting for climate justice.   For the CCC, the doctors, nurses, health workers, police and members of the armed forces, teachers, the utility staff, attendants in groceries and retail, food and cargo delivery drivers, fisherfolk and farmers, market vendors, journalists, security personnel, overseas workers, dedicated government workers at the national and local levels, especially those who sacrificed their lives to save others — must be honored and commended.   The CCC also lauds the people pursuing climate negotiations, in grassroots campaigns, and serving with community-based organizations, and every Filipino who champions climate justice.

MANILA, 28 August 2021 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) successfully convened the 10th National Panel of Technical Experts (NPTE) Forum last Tuesday, 24 August 2021 through Zoom and aired on Facebook Live.   With the theme, “Climate Action Onwards - Next Steps for Philippines' Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation,” this year’s NPTE Forum discussed the needed work ahead and capacity and knowledge to proceed with the work in climate action.   Department of Finance Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez III, Chairperson-designate of the CCC and Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda welcomed the participants and viewers and set the tone on the urgent need to take part in climate action.   “The nation relies on workable ideas on how we can reduce the climate risks locally and globally. I urge everyone to reimagine our world, and be creative, ambitious, and innovative in their plans of action. This is a battle we cannot afford to lose," said Sec. Dominguez.   “The work ahead is undeniably difficult, but I take comfort in knowing that the environmental movement is fast-growing here and around the world. We have more tools, we have unlimited platforms we could rely on, wider and deeper than we did decades ago when we started doing this work. We could harness all these to address a problem that is being felt more and more acutely by more and more of our people, who are more and more willing to act with urgency and resolve,” said Deputy Speaker Legarda.   The NPTE, led by current Chair Dr. Carlos Primo C. David, and members Ms. Lourdes V. Tibig, Dr. Fernando P. Siringan, Dr. Rosa T. Perez, Dr. Felino P. Lansigan, and Dr. Leoncio A. Amadore, delivered the main presentations.   “On sea-level rise, increasing sea surface temperatures, and ocean acidification, I am vetting for the need for local baselines – it should be a must for all coastal municipalities. And if we have local baselines, we need policy frameworks to better address these issues,” recommended by Ms. Tibig as she discussed slow onset climate events and the required response.   “The Philippines ought to treat sea level rise as a clear and present danger. Sadly, we have yet to formulate policies that will direct the development in the coastal zone that takes sea level rise into account,” said Dr. Siringan as he tackled the impacts of sea-level rise in the country.   “We continue our work in El Nino drought prediction and hopefully this will become a useful tool for our country. This now has to be translated into policy and, therefore, action in the future.  This has been done for us to be better prepared in a future that is made less certain because of climate change,” said Dr. David during his presentation on El Niño-linked droughts.   To safeguard projects against maladaptation, Dr. Perez stressed that “[C]limate and disaster risks and socio-economic factors of vulnerabilities have to be considered when developing projects. Evaluation of risk should not only be about climate, but also the other risks present in that area, which include geophysical risks.”   Enumerating the challenges and opportunities in risk transfer mechanism as a climate adaptation strategy, Dr. Lansingan highlighted the importance of research and development (R&D). “We need to support some R&D initiatives. This involves the promotion of a more objective, attractive, and affordable agri-insurance products, particularly in the most vulnerable areas. There is a need to establish institutional support, policy environment, and research and development on Research-Technology Management (RTM). We need the financial support to conduct R&D. This undertaking also involves the collaboration among various stakeholders including PCIC, NGAs, LGUs, NGOs/POs, RDIs, etc., on the Weather Index-Based Crop Insurance (WIBI) formulation and implementation and for roll out in those critical areas,” he said.   On the formulation of the mitigation component of the country’s Nationally Determined Contributions, Dr. Amadore recommended that the country “come up with 2020 GHG inventory, which should be consistent with our past inventories (2000 and 2010) and it really needs careful study. A multi-sectoral working group should be able to do that, and there are various applications of GHG inventory other than the Nationally Determined Contribution,” said Dr. Amadore.   Piloted in 2017, the NPTE Forum series encourage knowledge exchange and cultivate discussion between experts, relevant stakeholders and the public on climate change-related issues, policies, and practices from the international and national levels cascaded down to the local level.   The forum has tackled climate change adaptation and mitigation issues, featuring various adaptation strategies enhancing resilience, relevant sectors, and communities that are vulnerable to climate change, key areas for climate change mitigation, with all of these having a common theme that intends to inform the people of climate change and the needed climate action.   For more information on the previous NPTE Fora, visit the official website of the Climate Change Commission at https://climate.gov.ph/our-story/our-experts/national-panel-of-technical-experts-forum.

MANILA, 27 August 2021 —  The 59th episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways” featured the continuing efforts of local government units and national government agencies to promote and advance sustainable urban mobility revolution in the country, especially in Metro Manila.   The online conversation conceptualized and hosted by three-term Senator, now Deputy Speaker and Antique Representative Loren Legarda featured guests including Mayor Joy Belmonte of Quezon City; Robert Anthony Siy III, Transport Head from Pasig City; Brian Geli, Information Officer from San Juan City; Atty. Odilon Luis Pasaraba, Assistant Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG); Eldon Joshua Dionisio, Senior Transportation Development Officer from the Department of Transportation (DOTr); Michael Salalima, Head Executive Assistant from the Office of the Chairman of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA); and Aldrin Pelicano, Founder of MNL Moves. Red Constantino,  Executive Director of the Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities (ICSC) joined the program as co-host.   “Sinimulan natin ang mobility discussions early last year and it's taking only a few months, a year to produce a revolution that's underway, kasi ang mode natin ay tulong-tulong. Huwag kalimutan ang bayanihan, huwag kalimutang mangarap. Pero ang pangarap ay hindi mangyayari kung hindi natin ito inasikaso, at ‘pag hindi tayo nakialam,” said Constantino.   The local government units of Quezon City, Pasig City, and San Juan City presented their strategies in providing the great majority of the population has access to active mobility and non-motorized mainstream modes of transportation that are not only safe and functional, but also efficient and environmentally-sustainable.   “We have core values for active transport and sustainable mobility program: It must be comprehensive, climate-smart, equitable, convenient, and accessible. Within this program, we have the bicycle lane network or our QC bike lanes; we have improved pathways or GORA lane in order to promote walkability and pedestrianization; we have electric transport; and we have an integrated and planned city bus system which is free for everyone who would like to ride our bus – not just Quezon City residents, but also everyone who does business or is in Quezon City during the time when they need to ride our transport system,” said Mayor Belmonte.   “The Pasig Transport Office develops and operates transportation solutions that aim to improve the mobility and promote sustainable forms of transportation throughout the city. It delivers the sustainable transportation agenda of the City of Pasig for walking, cycling, and mass public transport,” said Siy.   “Last year, we started with zero bike lanes. But on June 3, 2020, World Bike Day, we committed to provide safe and very practical bike lanes not just to San Juaneños, but to everyone who crosses our city. From 0 to 5 during our mobility awards, to now 8.8 kilometers of bike lanes. San Juan City is very small, we’re just about 5.94 square kilometers wide, so medyo maikli at maliit lang ang aming bike lanes. However, we are committed to provide a healthier and more sustainable mobility for everyone in Metro Manila, especially San Juaneños,” said Geli.   Pelicano shared the results of the volunteer pedestrian and bicycle count, also known as Metro Manila Counts.   “Now, more than ever, the MMDA, with the help of LGUs, need to make counting a permanent part of their programming. When they count, when they get the number of people cycling, they can easily just create further investment. Ito ang objective ng Metro Manila Counts, to spark conversation to push for policy and infrastructure improvements,” said Pelicano.   Representatives from the national government agencies shared their insights and expressed support on the presented strategies in establishing bicycle masterplans.   “We are happy to report that a total of 457 Local Government Units (LGUs) out of the base line 1059 LGUs or 43% have already designated specific units, offices, or personnel dedicated for the implementation of active transport initiatives in their respective areas of jurisdiction. This is a huge leap in the right direction because it provides the LGUs the necessary institutional capacity to support and promote active transport in the years to come,” said Atty. Pasaraba.   “DOTr will be more than willing to support these movements and initiatives. We would like to recognize that the movement to promote active transportation embedded in our whole transportation system is a whole government and society approach. Very helpful ang initiatives ng LGUs, particularly the establishment of bike lane networks. It really complements the intercity bike lane network built by the DPWH, together with DOTr, through the Bayanihan 2 Law. It provides last-mile connectivity and accessibility sa ating bike commuters to and from their homes,” said Dionisio.   “Sa amin po sa MMDA, and together with the other government agencies - DOTr, DPWH, and DILG, it is a whole government approach and what we are doing right now is we fully support the different initiatives of local government units in terms of having their own bike lane network in the inner roads of their locality,” said Salalima.   Last year, Legarda urged the members of the Metro Manila Council and national government agencies concerned to declare cycling as an essential mode of transportation and to provide dedicated and protected bike lanes to link the cities in Metro Manila.   To further promote sustainable urban mobility in Metro Manila, Legarda urges the guest LGUs and NGAs to plant native trees in the provided green spaces in the cities.   “Part of our advocacy should not just be protected [and] permanent bike lanes, , but [also] the green spaces suitable to the cities, to Metro Manila, and to the Philippines. Huwag magtanim ng mga imported species, ng mga exotic na mahirap i-maintain, dapat ay ‘yung mga punong mabubuhay sa matinding dumi ng hangin at tindi ng ulan," 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.

MAYNILA, ika-25 ng Agosto 2021 — Kikilalanin sa ika-59 na episode ng seryeng “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways” ang patuloy na pagsusumikap ng mga local government units (LGUs) at national government agencies upang itaguyod at paunlarin ang sustainable urban mobility sa Metro Manila.   Ang online na talakayan, na hango sa konsepto at pangunguna ng dating three-term Senator, na ngayo’y Deputy Speaker at Antique Representative Loren Legarda, ay ipapalabas sa Huwebes, ika-26 ng Agosto 2021, 10:00 AM via Facebook Live sa facebook.com/CCCPhl at facebook.com/iamlorenlegarda.   Kasama sa online na talakayan ang mga representatives mula sa lokal na pamahalaan ng Pasig City, San Juan City, Marikina City, Quezon City; at mga officials mula sa Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), at Department of Transportation (DOTr) para ibahagi ang kani-kanilang mga active transport plans (sa pagbibisikleta at paglalakad), initiatives, at karanasan.   Kabilang din sa programa ang mga active transport advocates na sina Mr. Red Constantino ng Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities (ICSC) at Mr. Aldrin Pelicano ng MNL Moves.   Sa nakalipas na taon, ang Better Normal Series ay malawak na itinampok ang Sustainable Urban Mobility bilang isang tema. Tinalakay sa unang tatlong episodes ng programa ang pagtataguyod ng pagbibisikleta bilang pangunahing pamamaraan ng pang-araw-araw na pagbiyahe, at hinikayat ang mga LGUs at agencies na maglaan ng connected safe networks para sa mga bikers, lalo na para sa mga frontliners at essential workers na gumagamit ng bisikleta papunta sa kani-kanilang mga trabaho sa gitna ng pandemyang COVID-19.   Bilang isang online na talakayan upang maisulong ang kalusugan, kamalayang pang-kapaligiran, at mga kasanayan sa pakiki-angkop sa 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, Climate Change Commission, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, at The Climate Reality Project-Philippines, na binigyang-suporta naman ng Department of Education, Philippine Information Agency, Mother Earth Foundation.

MANILA, 24 August 2021 — The 59th episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways” will feature the continuing efforts of local government units and national government agencies to promote and advance sustainable urban mobility in Metro Manila.   The online conversation, conceptualized and hosted by three-term former Senator, now Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, will air on Thursday, 26 August 2021, 10:00 AM via Facebook Live at facebook.com/CCCPhl and facebook.com/iamlorenlegarda.   Joining the online conversation are representatives from the local governments of Pasig City, San Juan City, Marikina City, Quezon City; and officials from Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), and Department of Transportation (DOTr) to share their respective active transport (biking and walking) plans, initiatives, and experience.   Active transport advocates Mr. Red Constantino of the Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities (ICSC) and Mr. Aldrin Pelicano of MNL Moves will also join the program.   Over the past year, the Better Normal Series have extensively featured Sustainable Urban Mobility as a theme. The first three episodes of the program tackled the promotion of cycling as the main mode of the daily commute, and encouraged LGUs and agencies to provide a connected safe networks for bikers, especially for front liners and essential workers who have taken up cycling to report to their workplaces amidst this COVID-19 pandemic.   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 by the Office of Deputy Speaker Legarda, Climate Change Commission, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, and The Climate Reality Project-Philippines, with support from the Department of Education, Philippine Information Agency, and Mother Earth Foundation.

MANILA, 20 AUGUST 2021 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) invites all sectors to join the 10th National Panel of Technical Experts (NPTE) Forum on Tuesday, 24 August 2021 through Zoom online and CCC Facebook Live.   With the theme, “Climate Action Onwards - Next Steps for Philippines' Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation,” this NPTE Forum shall discuss the urgent work on capacity and knowledge building for all facets of climate action.   The forum will feature the following presentations: El Niño droughts: A predictive tool we can use and how climate change complicates things, by Dr. Carlos Primo C. David; Slow onset events and our required response, by Ms. Lourdes V. Tibig; Sea level rise and its impacts on our country, by Dr. Fernando P. Siringan; Safeguarding projects against maladaptation, by Dr. Rosa T. Perez; Challenges and opportunities in risk transfer mechanism as climate adaptation strategy, by Dr. Felino P. Lansigan; and Formulating the mitigation component of the NDC, by Dr. Leoncio A. Amadore. This Forum also aims to stimulate constructive discussions on improving multi-sectoral cooperation for successful implementation of the Nationally Determined Contribution which the country submitted this year.   Started in 2017, the NPTE Fora encourages knowledge exchange  among members of the academe, local government units, youth, business and industry, civil society, gender and faith-based groups, and the general public on climate change-related issues, policies, and practices through plenary presentations and open discussions.   The topics relate to various adaptation strategies to build resilience to climate impacts, and areas with potential for carbon emissions reduction.   For more updates on the NPTE forum, visit the Facebook Page of CCC at https://www.facebook.com/cccphl. 

MANILA, 19 August 2021 — In observance of World Humanitarian Day, the Climate Change Commission (CCC) urges world leaders to take meaningful climate action for the world’s most vulnerable populations.   Every year on August 19th, the World Humanitarian Day is observed to advocate for the survival, well-being, and dignity of people affected by humanitarian crises, and to honor and support the humanitarian aid workers who put their lives on the line to help the affected people during times of crisis.   This year's observance comes as the world continues to fight the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting lockdowns, and disasters from extreme weather, and in the face of humanitarian emergencies as in Afghanistan and Haiti. Humanitarian workers have carried out many acts of bravery and provided a safe space and basic necessities to vulnerable affected populations.   For 2021, the theme, "#TheHumanRace: A global challenge for climate action in solidarity with the people who need it most," stresses that humanity is racing against the clock of the climate emergency, presenting a global race challenge like no other.   The climate emergency is wreaking havoc across the world at a scale that people on the front lines and in the humanitarian community cannot manage. Droughts, heatwaves, raging wildfires and horrific floods are shattering the lives of millions of people, causing them to lose their homes, livelihoods and sometimes even their lives. The time is already running out for millions of the world’s most vulnerable people – those who have contributed least to the global climate emergency but are hit the hardest.   Following the release of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s Sixth Assessment Report from Working Group I, which presented the unequivocal causation by humans of the “widespread and rapid” changes to Earth’s climate, the CCC urges world leaders to pay attention to the immediate human cost and consequences of the climate emergency for the world’s most vulnerable people, and to ensure that their voices are heard and their needs top the agenda of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP26) on 31 October to 12 November 2021.   As the consequences of climate change will continue to get worse with inaction, the CCC emphasizes that now is the only time to run together towards the greatest race of our lifetime – to save people and planet.

CCC Commissioner Rachel Anne S. Herrera presented the country’s National Plan of Action on Marine Liter adopted by the Department of the Environment and Natural Resources which includes a policy approach to address problems with single-use plastics. MANILA, 19 AUGUST 2021 — The Climate Change Commission and UN Global Champion for Resilience, House Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, called for urgent action towards sustainable consumption and production to protect both marine and human life, in an online forum on seafood safety and sustainable packaging for seafood products on Wednesday, August 18.   As keynote speaker, Deputy Speaker Legarda highlighted the threats faced by the fisheries sector and related industries due to climate change, driven in part by the production, consumption, and disposal of single-use plastics, which the pandemic also worsened.   “Our throwaway, consumptive, wasteful culture is directly threatening marine life, with fish, seabirds, sea turtles, and marine mammals getting entangled in or even ingesting plastics,” she said.   “The problem is how to solve this—and it’s set to worsen: in 2017, we found that we produced as much plastic in the past 13 years than we did in the previous half-century. At that rate, we will end up with more plastic than fish in the oceans by 2050—oceans so acidic that farmed fish yield could be reduced by, believe it or not, 90%,” Legarda warned.   “As a nation of many islands, our economy and our culture have depended on fisheries for decades, if not centuries. Our lives are indelibly linked to the ocean, inextricably linked to its resources. We must act now, with urgency and resolve, to ensure the ocean’s protection for the fisherfolk, for the sectors that depend on them—and not just for them, but for all Filipinos, now and in the future,” Legarda added.   From the CCC, Commissioner Rachel Herrera presented government initiatives on circular economy and sustainable consumption and production, including the campaign for the passage of a national law to regulate single-use plastic products through the Cabinet Cluster on Climate Change Adaptation, Mitigation and Disaster Risk Reduction; crafting the regional Framework on Circular Economy for the ASEAN Economic Community; legislative efforts to promote circular economy and sustainable consumption initiatives; the Philippine Action Plan for Sustainable Consumption and Production (PAP4SCP); the National Ecolabeling Program–Green Choice Philippines; the National Plan of Action for the Prevention, Reduction, and Management of Marine Litter (NPOA-ML); and efforts to drive investments in sustainability and circularity through the country’s Strategic Investment Priority Plan.   “We are meeting today with urgent work ahead of us, because there is a report just released last week by the United Nations body of climate scientists, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, and this report has been described as ‘code red for humanity,’” said Herrera. “We can no longer stop climate change—and many of these effects or impacts are felt much more severely here in the Philippines. As our climate scientists note, sea levels here at home may be rising four times greater than the global average,” she added.   According to Herrera, while the report’s outlook is grim, “it also gives us hope that we can still avert the worst impacts of climate change if we act now, and immediate steps are needed”—including deep cuts in greenhouse gas emissions, and shifting towards a circular economy and sustainable consumption and production.   “All of this work becomes even more urgent not just because we are in a climate emergency, but because we are in a pandemic,” Herrera noted.   Hosted by the Institute of Fish Processing Technology of the University of the Philippines Visayas College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, the forum tackled current trends in post-harvest fisheries and food science. College Dean Prof. Encarnacion Emilia Yap remarked that, "There are some potentially carcinogenic substances which are absorbed by microplastics. So, if the microplastic is in one particular organism, the effect of microplastic is actually compounded by the absorption of other chemicals to the microplastics, thereby [doubling the problem of microplastics.]"   "We (CFOS) are totally in support of the Bill. As early as 2018, we've been doing this... Consider us as your warriors in our fight against the plastic pollution,” Dean Yap added.   Other speakers for the webinar included Mary Ann Galenzoga-Basal of NSF International, who discussed food safety especially of seafood products during the pandemic. 

MAYNILA, ika-18 ng Agosto 2021 —Tampok sa ika-58 na episode ng seryeng “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways” ang mga special citation winners sa ginanap na “Mga Kwentong KLIMA-likasan Tungo sa Katatagan: A Climate and Disaster Resiliency Recognition Awards,” ito'y isang initiative ng Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) para kilalanin ang mga gender-responsive climate programs ng ating mga local government units at mga organisasyon.   Ang online na talakayan, na hango sa konsepto at pangunguna ng dating three-term Senator, na ngayo’y Deputy Speaker at Antique Representative Loren Legarda, ay ipapalabas sa Huwebes, ika-19 ng Agosto 2021, 10:00 AM via Facebook Live sa facebook.com/CCCPhl at facebook.com/iamlorenlegarda.   Kasama bilang mga panauhin sa ikalawang bahagi ng two-part episode ay sina:   1.    Carvel Collins G. Acabal, Children Basic Sector at Kalambuan Youth Organization (KAYO), Zamboanga del Sur (Special Citation: Youth Empowerment)   2.    Adela Jamelo, Panatao ng Plastic Waste Recycling Association, Surigao del Norte (Special Citation: Originality)   3.    Ian Chester M. Solver, Parish Youth Ministry - Basud, Youth of Poblacion Uno-Basud, Camarines Norte (Special Citation: Ecological Solid Waste Management)   4.    Nyla Cordero, Kalayaan Organic Practitioners Association (KOPA), Laguna (Special Citation: Gender Empowerment)   5.    Danielle Ann Ravalo, Graymont Philippines Inc., Las Piñas City (Special Citation: Sustainability Initiatives)   6.    Auria Primaverde Gonzales, Metropolitan Naga Water District, Camarines Sur (Special Citation: Community Participation)     Kinikilala sa “Mga Kwentong KLIMA-likasan Tungo sa Katatagan” ang mga istorya at mga kwento ng ating mga kababaihan, kalalakihan at mga organisasyon, na nagsisikap na makatugon sa epektong dulot ng climate change sa kani-kanilang mga pamayanan sa pamamagitan ng gender-responsive programs na may kinalaman sa environmental protection at conservation, climate change, at disaster risk reduction.   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 bawat Pilipino at pamayanan sa mga hamon ng climate change at ng pandemya, tungo sa buhay na maka-kalikasan at sustainable sa ilalim ng ‘better normal’.   Ang online na talakayan na ito ay na-organisa sa pagtutulungan ng tanggapan ni Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda at ng 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, 17 August 2021 — The 58th episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways” will feature the special citation winners  for this year’s “Mga Kwentong KLIMA-likasan Tungo sa Katatagan: A Climate and Disaster Resiliency Recognition Awards,” an initiative of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for gender-responsive climate programs of local government units and organizations.   The online conversation, conceptualized and hosted by three-term former Senator, now Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, will air on Thursday, 19 August 2021, 10:00 AM via Facebook Live at facebook.com/CCCPhl and facebook.com/iamlorenlegarda.   Joining the last of the two-part episode are:   1.    Carvel Collins G. Acabal, Children Basic Sector and Kalambuan Youth Organization (KAYO), Zamboanga del Sur (Special Citation: Youth Empowerment)   2.    Adela Jamelo, Panatao Plastic Waste Recycling Association, Surigao del Norte (Special Citation: Originality)   3.    Ian Chester M. Solver, Parish Youth Ministry - Basud, Youth of Poblacion Uno-Basud, Camarines Norte (Special Citation: Ecological Solid Waste Management)   4.    Nyla Cordero - Kalayaan Organic Practitioners Association (KOPA), Laguna (Special Citation: Gender Empowerment)   5.    Danielle Ann Ravalo - Graymont Philippines Inc., Las Piñas City (Special Citation: Sustainability Initiatives)   6.    Auria Primaverde Gonzales - Metropolitan Naga Water District, Camarines Sur (Special Citation: Community Participation)   “Mga Kwentong KLIMA-likasan Tungo sa Katatagan” featured stories and narratives of women and men, and organizations, addressing the impacts of climate change in their communities through gender-responsive programs related to environmental protection and conservation, climate change, and disaster risk reduction.   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, 16 August 2021 — The 57th episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways” featured the Department of Education (DepEd) learners and personnel that showcased inspiring stories on advocating climate action. The episode is in time for the celebration of International Youth Day last August 12.   The online conversation, conceptualized and hosted by three-term Senator, now Deputy Speaker and Antique Representative Loren Legarda, featured guests including Director Ronilda Co and Ms. Zherluck Shaen Rodriguez of the DepEd Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Service (DRRMS); Joshua Villalobos of the Youth for Climate Hope (Division of Bacolod City), Ckyr Leonardo from Valencia National High School (Division of Valencia City), Raaina Hinay of Kids Who Farm (Division of Zamboanga City); and Amabelle Franchesca Boncato, a campus journalist from Congressional Integrated High School (Division of Cavite).   Director Co and Ms. Rodriguez introduced the “Stories of Children, Written by Children,” a booklet developed by DepEd DRRMS that features learners who exemplified outstanding leadership in environmental initiatives related to CCAM-DRR in their schools and communities.   “Children and youth are our present and future. Ang mga kabataan ang pag-asa ng bayan. Ngunit hindi lang sila pag-asa ng kinabukasan, kundi sa kasalukuyan din. That’s why we have to engage them in meaningful activities. Ang ginagawa ng DRRMS ay hindi na lamang consultations sa mga kabataan, iniaangat din natin ang participation doon sa level ng co-collaboration sa mga bata. We hope that we are able to support the youth, our learners into leading programs. We are going in that direction,” said Director Co.   “We want to make sure na ang ating mga kabataan ay napapakinggan, kasi hindi lang sila mga bata. This is why in DepEd, we listen, support, empower, and enable them. We make sure that we listen to their voices and support their existing programs, rojects, and activities. We also want to empower our learners and create an enebling system na pwede silang magparticipate sa ating mga programa,” said Rodriguez.   Villalobos introduced the “Youth for Climate Hope”, a coalition of youth organizations and individuals in Negros Occidental that engages the students in climate action, policy lobbying, creative mass action, and a culture and community that cares for the people and the environment. Their advocacies include the petition to amend the plastic bag regulation in Bacolod and campaign against plans on coal-fired power plant projects in the Negros region.   “Hindi naman po ibig sabihin na nag-climate strike tayo ay masasama na tayong mga kabataan, but it is a manifestation na naintindihan natin kung ano ‘yung ibig sabihin ng climate science. Nagra-rally tayo behind sa kung ano ang panawagan ng mga scientists at ng maraming sector na kailangan na natin ng justice at rapid reduction of our greenhouse gases emissions, para hindi natin maabot ang mga threshold na unti-unti na nating naaabot,” said Villalobos.   Leonardo introduced his “One Man, One Tree” program which promotes that each individual must plant at least one tree to regenerate forests severely deforested due to illegal activities.   “Plant a tree today and enjoy reaping the fruits of a greener world in the future. It inspires me to continue doing my advocacy, kasi gusto ko po ‘yung future generation ay maka-experience rin ng greener world at makalanghap ng sariwang hangin,” said Leonardo.   Hinay introduced “Kids Who Farm,” an initiative that aims to empower the youth and children as the next generation of food producers by making farming fun, easy to do, and sustainable. This program trains youth and women on urban container gardening, and established food community gardens in schools and micro-farm projects, and provides fresh and hyperlocal food access to local residents, especially in this time of the pandemic.   “Our vision is to reverse the persistent trend of aging Filipino farmers by building the expertise of the youth in agriculture and creating urban green jobs incubation opportunities to engage them in the business of farming to secure food for the future. Our goal is to inspire future farmers. As young as we are, we can be a source of inspiration to our fellow young people,” said Hinay.   Boncato, one of the student journalists who completed "The Green Beat Initiative,” an online environmental journalism training spearheaded by the DepEd DRRMS, is one of the writers of the said booklet.   “At this age, I am already experiencing the consequences of climate change through consecutive typhoons and extreme droughts. I know that many environmental problems and concerns need so much attention from the media, and they’re the ones who are capable of putting those in the spotlight… I believe that one of the reasons why I am here doing environmental journalism is to amplify the voices of those unheard and to be the voice of our dear Mother Earth,” said Boncato.   Legarda emphasized  the need to further raise awareness on the current climate emergency and to share knowledge on how the children, youth, and the general public can contribute to climate action.   “Ngayong International Youth Day, sa lahat ng kabataan natin, kayo ang pag-asa ng bansa, hindi lamang sa kinabukasan, kundi sa ngayon. Claim the future now. Ang pag-ahon sa pandemya ay paglaban sa climate emergency. Pareho ‘yan, magkasabay ‘yan, hindi tayo dapat bumalik sa dating normal. Kaya I'm glad na kakampi ko kayong lahat and we are all on the same page," 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.