MAYNILA, ika-12 ng Hulyo taong 2021 — Sa ika-52 episode ng seryeng “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Pathways” itinampok ang mga eksperto sa pangangalaga at pagpapalaganap ng katutubong mga halaman ng Pilipinas kung saan binigyang diin nila ang mahalagang papel ng mga ito sa pagpapabuti ng ating biodiversity at sa pag-adapt sa climate change.   Itinampok sa online na talakayan, na hango sa konsepto ng dating three-term Senator, na ngayo’y Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda ang mga Philippine indigenous plant advocates na sina Architect Rey Solero ng Philippine Native Plants Conservation Society, Inc.; Ronald Achacoso, Curator ng the Pinto Arboretum of Philippine Plants; Prof. Liezl M. Atienza, Registered Nutritionist-Dietician mula sa University of the Philippines – Los Banos; at Leo Fuentes ng Magsasaka at Siyentipiko para sa Pag-unlad ng Agrikultura sa Mindanao.   Ang episode na ito, kasama ang isa sa mga nangungunang environmental lawyer ng bansa na si Atty. Ipat Luna, ay nagbigay-liwanag sa usapin ng pagtatanim ng mga halaman, puno at bulaklak mula sa isang ecological perspective – bakit kailangan nating sikaping magtanim ng mga puno at mga palumpong na katutubo, paano itinatabi at pinaparami ng mga katutubong Pilipino ang katutubong mga binhi, at anong mga katutubong halaman ang mainam na gamiting gamot at nakabubuti kalusugan.   "Sa ekolohiya, ang lahat ay magkakaugnay sa bawat isa. Kung tayo ay nabibighani sa pink flowers ng cherry blossom, itatanim natin yan dito, kung saan hindi ito nag co-evolve kasama ng iba pang mga species, nakatanim ito sa lupa na para sana sa isang Philippine tree na hindi makikita sa ibang bahagi mundo. Ang endemic nating mga puno ay nanganganib na maubos, ang anumang punong itatanim natin ay titindig sa lupang hindi ginamit para sagipin sila mula sa pagkaubos. Kaya naman sa bawat pagtatanim natin, kailangan nating piliin ang tamang mga halamang itatanim sa akmang habitat," sabi ni Atty. Ipat Luna.   Tinalakay ni Architect Rey Solero, na isa ring magsasaka at environmentalist, ang pangangalaga sa ating endangered na Philippine native plants and flora, at ang kanyang adbokasiya sa pagtataguyod ng sustainable and regenerative lifestyle sa pamamagitan ng paglikha ng mga man-made environments na konektado sa natural environment.   “Pag sinabing 'Save indigenous plants' parang gargantuan task - pero hindi po. Tayo po ay may malaking magagawa kahit hindi natin alam kung ano yung mga native o indigenous plants. Mag-compost po tayo, mahalin natin sila, start sowing, start appreciating, start conserving,” sabi ni Architect Rey Solero.   Ipinakilala ni Ronald Achacoso ang Pinto Arboretrum, isang botanical showcase ng katubong mga puno ng Pilipinas at iba pang mga plant groups na katutubo rin. Isinusulong ni Ronald Achacoso ang pagkaka-ugnay ng siyensya at sining, bilang dalawang magkaibang mga kasanayan.   “Kapag sinabi mong Arboretum, ito ay isang hardin ng mga puno. Sa katunayan, kung pupunta ka sa isang rainforest, bibihirang maituring mo ang mga ito bilang mga puno. Itong mga puno natin ay parang mga micro-habitats, maraming nakatirang halaman diyan, sa garden of trees I also incorporated all the other Philippine native plant groups,” sabi ni Achacoso.   Ibinahagi ni Prof. Liezl M. Atienza ang mga nutritional benefits na makukuha sa katutubong mga halaman ng Pilipinas at ang  potensyal na mayroon ang Philippine berries.   “Ngayon po ay kulang pa ang pag-aaral sa ating sariling berries kaya kami po, as part of a research team in UPLB and also a dietitian and nutrition scientist, ang inaaral po natin ay ang ating mga native o indigenous berries. Ito po ay ang bignay, duhat at lipote. Naniniwala po tayo na ang ating Philippine berries and other indigenous crops ay mayaman sa bioactive compounds na may health promoting property. Maganda sa kalusugan, maganda sa nutrisyon, pampalakas ng immune system lalo sa panahon ng pandemya ay pwede ring maging source of income,” sabi ni Prof. Atienza.   Si Leo Fuentes, na Regional Coordinator para sa Mindanao ng MASIPAG – Magsasaka at Siyentipiko para sa Pag-unlad ng Agrikultura, na isang pambansang network ng mga magsasaka, siyentipiko, at mga NGOs na nagsusulong ng sustainable na pamamahala ng ating biodiversity, ay nagbahagi tungkol sa Lalapung o ang tradisyonal na pamamaraan ng pag-iimbak ng binhi ng mga lumad.   “Tandaan po natin na ‘yung prinsipyo sa ecology na ito ay shared world. Sa ating pang-araw araw na buhay ay huwag po nating kalimutan na ang mga katutubo natin ay patuloy na nangangalaga sa ating kalikasan,” pagbabahagi ni Fuentes.   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 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, 9 July 2021 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) underscored the need for urgent climate action to keep families and communities safe amid worsening climate impacts, in observance of World Population Day on Sunday, July 11.   July 11th of every year is declared World Population Day through UN Resolution 45/216, with the aim of bringing attention to various population-related issues including poverty, health, human rights, equality, environmental degradation, and the importance of population management.   Human population growth has increased demand for fossil fuels like oil, gas, and coal, which all emit massive amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. According to the UN Population Fund, the world's population increased from 1.6 billion in 1900 to over 7.5 billion in just over a century—during which carbon dioxide emissions also increased twelve-fold.   By 2050, the world's population is anticipated to reach nine billion. Without changes in how we live and we do business across all levels and sectors—especially in terms of extracting natural resources and emitting carbon—global warming will only worsen in the coming years and decades. And during a climate crisis—just as we have seen around the world during the pandemic—it is the most vulnerable families and communities that will be hit the hardest.   Today is a call for individuals, families, communities, and government leaders at all levels to take concrete steps to change how we live and how we treat the world and those we share it with: Undertake lifestyle changes at homes, schools, and offices; pursue sustainable and circular business practices and models; ingrain climate awareness and spark action in communities through initiatives like going zero-plastic, starting community gardens, and improving waste management.   The CCC reiterates: now is the time for everyone to act. The longer the delay, the more painful and expensive the consequences will be. On the other hand, stronger and timelier climate action can save more lives, avoid trillions of dollars of economic damage globally, and secure resilience for families and communities not just today, but in years and decades still to come.

MANILA, 9 July 2021 — The Philippine Climate Change Commission (CCC) called on developed countries to commit to more urgent and ambitious action to address the climate crisis as a leaked landmark climate report of the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) appears to warn of alarming impacts which may be closer than people expect.     ““The developed world is most responsible for the climate emergency, but it is the developing world that is disproportionately burdened and bearing the brunt of climate change impacts. Our people must not just survive but also thrive amid the changing climate, and the commitment of developed nations to equitable and fair response and support to the climate vulnerable developing nations is key,” CCC Secretary Emmanuel M. De Guzman said.   The 4,000-page draft report of the IPCC, created to provide policymakers with regular scientific assessments on climate change, provides a comprehensive assessment of how climate risks will alter all life on earth, and warns that the planet is reaching climate tipping points—which, as scientists note, means the consequences will become unavoidable, and over time the impacts may be more dramatic, widespread, and devastating.   For instance, as the report notes, unlivable heat, ecosystem collapse, species extinction, widespread diseases, and cities buckling under rising sea levels are just some of the accelerating effects which are bound to be more obvious before a child born today turns 30.   It adds that tens of millions of more people are likely to face chronic hunger, while 130 million more could experience extreme poverty within a decade if inequality is allowed to deepen. Coastal cities on the “front line” of the climate crisis will see hundreds of millions of people at risk from floods and increasingly frequent storm surges made more deadly by rising seas.   Some 350 million more people living in urban areas will be exposed to water scarcity from severe droughts at 1.5 degrees Celsius of warming – 410 million at two degrees Celsius. The extra half-degree will also mean 420 million more people exposed to extreme and potentially lethal heatwaves.   “Life on Earth can recover from a drastic climate shift by evolving into new species and creating new ecosystems…humans cannot,” the draft report warns.   The scheduled release of the report would have been in February next year, or three months after the 26th Conference of Parties where global leaders and policymakers will gather to craft agreements on accelerated action under the goals of the Paris Agreement and the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change. The draft report provides a grimmer scenario compared to previous reports, and says that current levels of adaptation are inadequate to respond to impending risks.   The draft report also mentioned that climate change and global warming impacts are amplified by human intervention which includes losses of habitat and resilience, over-exploitation, water extraction, pollution, invasive non-native species and dispersal of pests and diseases.   It adds that while the effects of the crisis can no longer be averted, there are steps that must be taken to prepare communities for the impact and avoid worst-case scenarios. For instance, conserving and restoring blue carbon ecosystems like kelp and mangrove forests will enhance carbon stocks and protect against storm surges, while also providing wildlife habitats, coastal livelihoods, and food security. The report also mentions the need to shift to more plant-based diets, which could help reduce food-related emissions by as much as 70% by 2050.   Overall, however, the report warns that such shifts in isolation will not be enough.   “We need transformational change operating on processes and behaviors at all levels: individual, communities, business, institutions and governments,” the report says. “We must redefine our way of life and consumption.” 

Conserving seeds is one way to preserve and propagate indigenous and native plants.  Photo from presentation of Architect Rey Solero of the Philippine Native Plants Conservation Society, Inc. MANILA, 9 July 2021 —  The 52nd episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Pathways” featured experts in the preservation and propagation of Philippine indigenous plants to promote its critical role in enhancing biodiversity and adapting to climate change, and the protection and utilization of the indigenous crops and plants.   The online conversation conceptualized by three-term Senator, now Deputy Speaker and Antique Representative Loren Legarda featured Philippine indigenous plant advocates including Architect Rey Solero of the Philippine Native Plants Conservation Society, Inc.; Ronald Achacoso, Curator of the Pinto Arboretum of Philippine Plants; Prof. Liezl M. Atienza, a Registered Nutritionist-Dietician from the University of the Philippines – Los Banos (UPLB); and Leo Fuentes of the Magsasaka at Siyentipiko para sa Pag-unlad ng Agrikultura sa Mindanao.   This episode, hosted by environmental lawyer Ipat Luna, shed light on growing plants, trees, and flowers from an ecological perspective – why we should strive to plant trees and shrubs that are indigenous or native to the area, how indigenous people save and propagate indigenous seeds, and what indigenous plants are medicinal and good for the health.   "In ecology, everything is connected to everything else.  So if, enamored by the pink flowers of the cherry blossom, we plant it here, where it did not co-evolve with other species, it is taking up space that could have gone to a Philippine tree that is found nowhere else in the world.  Our endemic trees are endangered, and any tree we plant will be land that is not used to wrest them from extinction. So each time we plant, we have to be intentional and pick the right plants suited for the habitat,” said Atty. Luna.   Architect Solero, who is also a farmer and environmentalist, tackled the conservation of endangered Philippine native plants and flora, and his advocacy of promoting sustainable and regenerative lifestyle by creating man-made environments that are aligned, connected, and integrated with the natural environment and do not depart from natural systems.   “’Pag sinabing 'Save indigenous plants' parang gargantuan task - pero hindi po. Tayo po ay may malaking magagawa kahit hindi natin alam kung ano yung mga native o indigenous plants. Mag-compost po tayo, mahalin natin sila, start sowing, start appreciating, start conserving,” said Architect Solero.   Achacoso introduced Pinto Arboretrum, a botanical showcase of Philippine native trees and other plant groups that are indigenous. He advocates the linkages of science and art, two polarizing disciplines.   “When you say Arboretum, it is a garden of trees. Actually, if you go to a rainforest, you’ll seldom see our trees as entities in themselves. Itong mga puno natin parang mga micro-habitats, maraming nakatirang halaman diyan, sa garden of trees ko I also incorporated all the other Philippine native plant groups,” said Achacoso.   Prof. Atienza shared the nutritional benefits of Philippine indigenous plants and the potential of Philippine berries.   “Ngayon po ay kulang pa ang pag-aaral sa ating sariling berries kaya kami po, as part of a research team in UPLB and also a dietitian and nutrition scientist, ang inaaral po natin ay ang ating mga native o indigenous berries. Ito po ay ang bignay, duhat at lipote. Naniniwala po tayo na ang ating Philippine berries and other indigenous crops ay mayaman sa bioactive compounds na may health promoting property. Maganda sa kalusugan, maganda sa nutrisyon, pampalakas ng immune system lalo sa panahon ng pandemya ay pwede ring maging source of income,” said Prof. Atienza.   Fuentes, the Regional Coordinator for Mindanao of MASIPAG – Magsasaka at Siyentipiko para sa Pag-unlad ng Agrikultura, a national network of farmers, scientists, and NGOs that promotes sustainable use and management of biodiversity through farmers control of genetic and biological resources, production, and knowledge – shared about Lalapung, or the traditional seed storage of Lumads in Mindanao.   “Tandaan po natin na ‘yung prinsipyo sa ecology na ito ay shared world. Sa ating pang-araw araw na buhay ay huwag po nating kalimutan na ang mga katutubo natin ay patuloy na nangangalaga sa ating kalikasan,” said Fuentes.   As an online discussion to promote health, environmental consciousness, and climate-adaptive practices, "Stories for a Better Normal" aims to change the mindset of individuals, families, and communities by demonstrating ways in which a ‘better normal’ can be realized within our communities.   This online discussion is organized in partnership between the Office of Deputy Speaker Legarda and the Climate Change Commission, with support from the Department of Education, Philippine Information Agency, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, The Climate Reality Project-Philippines and Mother Earth Foundation.

MANILA, 8 July 2021 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) announces its call for nominations for the National Panel of Technical Experts (NPTE).   The NPTE is composed of experts in various disciplines related to climate change that provides technical advice to the Commission in climate science, technologies, and best practices for risk assessment and enhancement of the adaptive capacity of vulnerable human settlements to potential impacts of climate change, in accordance with the RA 9729 or the Climate Change Act of 2009.   The call aims to enhance the nomination, selection, and appointment process of the NPTE membership to broaden the country’s pool of experts on climate change. This will also ensure the institutional, regional, and sectoral representation of the NPTE membership, with special consideration for gender balance.   Pursuant to the Rule VII of the Revised-Implementing Rules and Regulations of RA 9729, as amended and the CCC Resolution No. 2021-004, the CCC invites government agencies and offices, academic and research institutions, and other relevant stakeholders to nominate reputed experts, professionals and practitioners, in any of the following fields of discipline related to climate science, public policy and administration, and climate risk governance:   1.  Natural sciences: Climate change science and meteorology, Earth science and oceanography, Natural science, Environment, biodiversity, and human ecology, Health, agriculture and food security, Water and hydrology, Climate change adaptation and mitigation, Disaster risk reduction and management, Renewable energy and sustainable energy, and Low-emission infrastructure and transport;   2.  Social sciences: Sustainable development, Development planning and management, Sociology and anthropology, Geography, Political science, Demography and population studies, Development communication, and Ethnic studies, including gender policies;   3.    Law: Environmental law, International climate diplomacy and negotiations, and International law;   4.  Economics: Economics, Climate finance, Sustainable finance, Circular economy, Sustainable consumption and production, Ecological solid waste management, Sustainable delivery of goods and services, and Analysis of potential loss and damage and disruption of services from climate change risk or impacts;   5.  Data science: Mathematics, Climate change risk assessment, Climate change data ecosystem and analytics, Greenhouse gas inventory, and Climate change expenditure tagging;   6. Governance: Implementation of policy frameworks and strategies, program and project management; National security administration; Policy research and development, Technology needs assessment; and Monitoring, evaluation and impact assessment of programs and projects related to climate change adaptation and mitigation and disaster risk reduction and management, with preference to those with relevant work in rural and coastal communities; and   7.    Priority thematic areas of the National Climate Change Action Plan and other technical areas relevant to the mandates and work of the CCC.   The nominee must possess the following qualifications: (1) A Filipino citizen; (2) has a proven track record in his/her field of expertise; (3) has not committed plagiarism or has not been convicted of a crime of moral turpitude; (4) has no conflict of interest with the mandate of the CCC or NPTE, or shall endeavor to avoid any situation involving an actual conflict of interest, or the appearance of a conflict of interest; (5) has not taken any position against indigenous peoples; and (6) a reputed and a recognized authority on climate change or any of the above specific fields of discipline, as it relates to climate science, public policy, or risk governance.   The nomination must be in the form of a duly signed official letter addressed to the CCC, accompanied by documents that attest to the qualifications and integrity of the nominee. Any candidate for the NPTE shall be nominated by a government agency, an academic or research institution, civil society organization, or private sector stakeholder. Any private sector nominating institution or entity must be duly-registered within the Securities and Exchange Commission.   The deadline for submission of nomination letters is on or before Thursday next week, 15 July 2021. For updates and more information on the qualifications and requirements, visit the website and social media pages of the Climate Change Commission or contact the NPTE Secretariat at [email protected]. 

ANNOUNCEMENT The call for nominations to the National Panel of Technical Experts of the Climate Change Commission is NOW OPEN. Government agencies and offices, academic and research institutions, and other stakeholders are invited to nominate experts, professionals, and practitioners in any of the following fields of discipline as they relate to climate change: 1.    Natural sciences: Climate change science and meteorology, Earth science and oceanography, Natural science, Environment, biodiversity, and human ecology, Health, agriculture and food security, Water and hydrology, Climate change adaptation and mitigation, Disaster risk reduction and management, Renewable energy and sustainable energy, and Low emission infrastructure and transport; 2.    Social sciences: Sustainable development, Development planning and management, Sociology and anthropology, Geography, Political science, Demography and population studies, Development communication, and Ethnic studies, including gender policies; 3.    Law: Environmental law, International climate diplomacy and negotiations, and International law; 4.    Economics: Economics, Climate finance, Sustainable finance, Circular economy, Sustainable consumption and production, Ecological solid waste management, Sustainable delivery of goods and services, and Analysis of potential loss and damage and disruption of services from climate change risk or impacts; 5.    Data science: Mathematics, Climate change risk assessment, Climate change data ecosystem and analytics, Greenhouse gas inventory, and Climate change expenditure tagging;  6.    Governance: Implementation of policy frameworks and strategies, program and project management; National security administration; Policy research and development, Technology needs assessment; and Monitoring, evaluation and impact assessment of programs and projects related to climate change adaptation and mitigation and disaster risk reduction and management, with preference to those with relevant work in rural and coastal communities; and 7.    Priority thematic areas of the National Climate Change Action Plan and other technical areas relevant to the mandate and work of the CCC. The nominee must be:  - A Filipino citizen;  - With proven track record in his/her field of expertise;  - Has not committed plagiarism or has not been convicted of a crime of moral turpitude;  - Has no conflict of interest with the mandate of the CCC or NPTE, or shall endeavor to avoid any situation involving an actual conflict of interest, or the appearance of a conflict of interest;  - Has not taken any position against indigenous peoples; and - A reputed and recognized authority on climate change or any of the above specific fields of discipline, as they relate to climate science, public policy, or risk governance. Nominations must be in the form of a duly signed official letter addressed to the Climate Change Commission, accompanied by documents that attest to the qualifications and integrity of the nominee and received in complete form by the CCC on or before the specified deadline.  Any private sector nominating institution or entity must be duly registered within the Securities and Exchange Commission.  The deadline for submission of nomination letters is on 15 July 2021.   For inquiries, please contact the NPTE Secretariat at [email protected].

MAYNILA, ika-6 ng Hulyo taong 2021 — Magtitipon-tipon virtually ang mga eksperto para pag-usapan at maisulong ang napakahalagang papel ng mga katutubong halaman sa pagpapahusay ng ating biodiversity at sa pag-adapt natin sa climate change sa ika-52 na episode ng “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways,” na may temang, “Saving Indigenous Plants”   Ang online na talakayan, na hango sa konsepto ni Deputy Speaker at Antique Representative Loren Legarda, ay ipalalabas sa Huwebes, ika-8 ng Hulyo 2021, 10:00 AM gamit ang Facebook Live sa facebook.com/CCCPhl at facebook.com/iamlorenlegarda.   Kabilang sa online na talakayan ay ang mga eksperto sa pangangalaga at pagpapalago ng mga katutubong halaman ng Pilipinas. Sila ay sina Architect Rey Solero ng Philippine Native Plants Conservation Society, Inc.; Ronald Achacoso, Curator ng Pinto Arboretum of Philippine Plants; Prof. Liezl M. Atienza, Registered Nutritionist-Dietician mula sa University of the Philippines Los Banos (UPLB); at Leo Fuentes ng Magsasaka at Siyentipiko para sa Pag-unlad ng Agrikultura sa Mindanao.   Ang Pilipinas ay tahanan ng ilang katutubong halaman na mayroong ecological, cultural, at economic value. Subalit, sa paglaganap ng mga exotic o bagong uri ng mga halaman at pananim ay nahalinhan at naisantabi ang mga katutubong halaman, at ito ay may epekto sa ating natural ecosystems.   Ang pag-iipon ng mga binhi o seeds para sa malawakang paggamit, pagtatanim ng katutubong mga gulay sa ating mga tahanan at community gardens, paggawa ng bagong mga recipes gamit ang mga katutubong tanim, at ang pagprotekta sa ating mga endangered na katutubong halaman at iba pa, ay makatutulong upang mapangalagaan natin ang ating biodiversity at habitat para sa susunod na mga henerasyon.   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 ng three-term na Senador at ngayo'y Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda at ng Climate Change Commission (CCC) na binigyang-suporta naman ng Department of Education, Philippine Information Agency, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, The Climate Reality Project-Philippines at ng Mother Earth Foundation.

MANILA, 5 July 2021 — Plant experts will gather virtually to promote the critical role of indigenous plants in enhancing biodiversity and adapting to climate change on the 52nd episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways,” with the topic, “Saving Indigenous Plants.”   The program, conceptualized and hosted by three-term former Senator, now Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, will air on Thursday, 8 July 2021, 10:00 AM via Facebook Live at facebook.com/CCCPhl and facebook.com/iamlorenlegarda.   Joining the online conversation are experts in the preservation, promotion, and propagation of Philippine indigenous plants including Architect Rey Solero of the Philippine Native Plants Conservation Society, Inc.; Ronald Achacoso, Curator of the Pinto Arboretum of Philippine Plants; Prof. Liezl M. Atienza, a Nutritionist-Dietician from the University of the Philippines – Los Banos (UPLB); and Leo Fuentes of the Magsasaka at Siyentipiko para sa Pag-unlad ng Agrikultura sa Mindanao.   The Philippines is home to several indigenous plants of ecological, cultural, and economic importance. However, the introduction and spread of new varieties of plants and crops have displaced indigenous plants, and the destruction of natural ecosystems due to human activities and climate-related disasters and stresses made growing habitats less favorable for indigenous species.   Savings seeds for widespread use, growing indigenous vegetables in home and community gardens, developing new recipes using edible indigenous plants, and protecting endangered native plants, among others, can help preserve biodiversity and habitats for the next generations of Filipinos.   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, 5 July 2021 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) throws support to the foodservice sector in transitioning into a low-carbon industry by advancing their capacities to adopt sustainable practices.   The Sustainable Summit 2021, organized by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Philippines, gathered stakeholders to exhibit accomplishments aligned to the country's food sustainability priorities and agenda, and to have a discourse on policy and best practices for sustainable dining.   With the theme, “Final Course: Celebrating Sustainable Dining in the Philippines,” the Summit supports the efforts of the Philippine government to establish sustainable consumption and production (SCP) strategies in the country.   In his opening remarks, CCC Vice Chairperson Emmanuel M. de Guzman highlighted the contribution of food production systems in the present climate crisis, particularly of the agriculture sector which accounts for around 30% of greenhouse gas emissions.   “To fix hunger, we must rethink both how we consume, and how we produce what we consume. A combination of significant dietary changes, huge reductions in food losses and waste, and significant improvements in food production methods are required to make this transformation,” said de Guzman.   Vice Chairperson de Guzman proposed the following measures to attain sustainability in the food service sector:   Ramping up public consciousness about more readily available, accessible, and affordable food, while also increasing awareness about the damage that harmful and unsustainable meals bring; Increasing the diversity of nutrient-rich crops, rather than focusing on high volumes of a few crops; Utilizing technology and system innovation to cultivate existing land to get higher yields, sequester carbon, and conserve biodiversity and ecosystem services; and Reducing food loss and waste during the food manufacturing and consumption stages through technological solutions, consumer campaigns, and policies.   With food security as one of the thematic areas of the National Climate Change Action Plan, the CCC is committed to assist the food sector in transitioning into a low-carbon and sustainable industry by developing national and local policies to create an enabling environment for sustainable food value chains, and finding pathways to combine supply-side actions such as efficient production, transport, and processing with demand-side interventions such as modification of food choices, and reduction of food loss and waste.   This transformation is parallel with the country’s commitments under the first Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) crafted and implemented through the convergence among national government agencies including the Department of Finance, National Economic and Development Authority, Department of Agriculture, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Transportation, and Department of Energy, along with the academe and civil society. The DOF and CCC led the efforts to complete the technical process of the NDC.   “The CCC is serious about food sustainability. This entails seeing it not as a series of sectors and industries, and even the consuming public, battling it out for prevalence over the agenda, but as an intricate tapestry of stakeholders bound by a common vision: A healthier society, one where stomachs are filled, where farmlands brim with yield, where foresight and compassion reign, not only today, but for the generations to come,” de Guzman assured.   The Sustainable Diner Summit 2021 is held under the Sustainable Diner: A Key Ingredient for Sustainable Tourism Project. The Project produced studies and resources, such as a food waste management case study, a feasibility study on a food donation programme, a cost-benefit analysis on sustainable business approaches, a food service life-cycle assessment, eco-labeling criteria for the foodservice sector, and environmental teaching manuals for primary and secondary school teachers.   They are also working with the food service sector such as restaurants and hotels to offer sustainable dining options and improving their sustainability performance through local and sustainable food sourcing, food waste reduction, water and energy efficiency, avoidance of single-use plastics, plant-based dining options.   To know more about the highlights of the event, visit the Facebook Page of the WWF Philippines at https://www.facebook.com/WWF.Philippines.

Converting vancant lots to community gardens increase access to fresh food and improve food security. Photo from the presentation of Atty. JC Tejano of of Urban Green Communes. MANILA, 2 July 2021 — The 51st episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Pathways” featured home and community food gardens from various areas in Metro Manila established during the beginning of lockdown, which helped bring a steady supply of nutritious food during the pandemic and in the better normal.   The online conversation conceptualized and hosted by three-term Senator, now Deputy Speaker and Antique Representative Loren Legarda, featured urban gardeners including Diding Libao of Inang Maria’s Garden in Payatas; Jeanny Flojimon and Letlet Casas of Food Today Food Tomorrow also in Payatas; Nicole Obligacion of Anyone Can Garden in Pasig City; and Atty. JC Tejano of Urban Green Communes in Quezon City.   The guests shared their experience of setting up and maintaining food gardens in their homes, backyards, and empty lots, including in lower-income neighborhoods, and encouraged households and communities to start their own edible gardens, even in small spaces, not only as a source of food, but also as a recreational activity during these challenging times.   Libao shared how the free seeds and nutritious harvests from Inang Maria’s Garden helped parishioners and families in Payatas during the height of the community quarantine due to the pandemic.   "Lahat po kami ay naka-survive dahil sa inisyatibo ng aming parokya. Malaking tulong po ang simbahan na nagsimula sa pagbigay ng punla, nakakatipid kami sa aming pamamalengke at masaya po ang aming samahan kasi dito po namin nilalabas ang stress sa buhay lalo na ngayong pandemic,” said Libao.   Flojimon and Casas, members of the Pinagkaisang Lakas ng Mamamayan ng Payatas, an organization that promotes the right of the urban poor to have decent work and food, shared how the residents themselves took the initiative to set up backyard and container gardens for a healthy supply of food, particularly vegetables.    Their group is one of the 20 urban grower groups who developed the ‘Food Today, Food Tomorrow’ project, and now organizes weekly ‘Kusinang Bayan’ in Payatas.   "Dito sa area, nag-inisyatibo ang mga mamamayan na kahit backyard lang ‘yan o kahit sa paso, pag ‘yan ay nataniman, malaking tulong na ito sa pang-araw-araw na pagkain, lalo na ngayon na mahal ang gulay kung bibilhin...kahit kaunting espasyo lang sa gilid ay mapagtatamnan na," said Flojimon and Casas.   Obligacion, who has been gardening since 2013 in the balcony of her condominium, spoke of how she teaches locals and foreigners tips on how to grow their own food through her online platform, ‘Anyone Can Garden.’   "Ang isa po talaga sa goals ko for Anyone Can Garden ay makapagbigay ng step-by-step tips or guide na madaling maintindihan at mai-apply. And to be honest kahit ako din po ay nai-intimidate ‘pag first time ko pa lang po itatanim ang halaman at first time aalagaan. May fear talaga na 'pano kung magkamali ako' o 'pano kung mapeste na naman ito' pero ang pinanghahawakan ko talaga ay ‘yung brand name na Anyone Can Garden," said Obligacion.   Atty. Tejano enumerated the environmental benefits and opportunities they saw while converting nearby empty lots.   "Habang naglilinis, naisip namin na taniman na ‘yung lote for two reasons: Una, para hindi na magtapon ulit ng basura doon sa bakanteng lote, kasi kapag mayroon nang tumutubo, mayroon nang gulayan, mayroon nang mga pananim doon sa bakanteng lote, mahihiya na ‘yung mga tao na basta na lang magtapon ng basura. Pangalawa, para maiwasan na magpunta ng palengke. Around the start of community quarantine ay paranoid ang mga tao na pumunta ng palengke para mamili," said Tejano, co-founder of Urban Green Communes, a group of more than 20 community gardens in Metro Manila.   During the pandemic, they transformed a vacant lot that was being used as a dump into a community garden. They envision to build similar gardens in every barangay in Metro Manila, where people grow and share food, take charge of urban life, take care of everyday health, and regenerate ecosystems.   Legarda, with co-host Atty. Ipat Luna, supported the initiatives of the urban gardeners and urged individuals to install their own food garden, even in small spaces, using recyclable materials, to ensure food availability and supply at home and in their communities, as well as the government to switch to giving plant kits and sustainable food as a way to provide assistance and support to the families reeling from the economic impacts of the pandemic.   “Sa panahon ng pandemic, sa panahon ng pagbibigay ng social amelioration, sana ay ibahin natin, itweak natin ang government programs. Huwag de lata mentality, sana isama din ang preskong tanim, preskong gulay, at isama ang buto, ang soil, at basic tools. 'Pag binigyan ng bigas at de lata, ilang araw lang ay gutom na naman ang pamilya. Pero 'pag binigyan natin ng starter kits sa urban gardening, tuluy-tuloy na ‘yan hanggang sa magkaroon sila ng gulayan at tindahan,” 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.   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, 1 July 2021 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) supports the call of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) for all local government units (LGUs) to submit their Local Climate Change Action Plans (LCCAPs) by the end of July 2021.   Republic Act No. 9729 mandates all LGUs, as frontline agencies in the formulation, planning, and implementation of climate change action plans, to increase the capacities of communities to adapt to and mitigate the effects of climate change.   With only 1,379 LGUs having submitted their LCCAPs, the DILG-Bureau of Local Government Development, in collaboration with the CCC, issued Memorandum Circular No. 2021-068 on 28 June 2021 enjoining all LGUs, as well as DILG offices, to update the CCC on the status of their LCCAPs.   Consistent with the provisions of RA 9729, the National Framework Strategy on Climate Change (NFSCC), the National Climate Change Action Plan (NCCAP), and the Local Government Code, the LCCAP will define the strategies of a community for strengthening local risk governance, enhancing rural livelihood, ensuring ecosystems integrity, and building cultural resilience.   Implementing LCCAPs will reduce disaster risks and will build the adaptive capacity and resilience of communities, especially the farmers, fisherfolk, and  informal settler families living in danger areas that are the most vulnerable sectors of society to climate change impacts.   As the Philippines is among the countries most vulnerable to climate risks, the national government, through the CCC and DILG, are committed to empower LGUs to adapt to the effects of climate change and reduce its greenhouse gas emissions through the rollout of capacity-building programs for enhanced LCCAPs.   Even in the midst of a pandemic, the CCC continuously delivers training for LGUs under its Communities for Resilience (CORE) Program, the agency’s flagship capacity building initiatives for local leaders and planners on mainstreaming climate change in local investment planning and processes.   Last year, the CCC successfully held a four-part Accelerated Climate Action and Transformation (ACT) Local Online Conference, an overarching partnership program for the delivery of its capacity building activities, to formalize a sustainable partnership among the national government, academe, and the private sector in providing technical and/or financial resources to LGUs on climate action.   Through ACT Local, relevant stakeholders were oriented on how to assist and contribute to efforts that will generate information, boost capacity development, promote cooperation and convergence, facilitate vertical and horizontal alignment for development planning, and access to climate financing windows toward climate resiliency.   For more information on the ACT Local and capacity building activities for LGUs, visit the website of the Climate Change Commission at climate.gov.ph. 

MANILA, 1 July 2021 — In observance of the National Disaster Resilience Month this July, the Climate Change Commission (CCC) calls for the shift from reactive efforts to proactive strategies in reducing disaster risks and strengthening the country’s defenses against natural hazards and anthropogenic climate change.   Executive Order no. 29 s. 2017 declares the month of July of every year as National Disaster Resilience Month, which emphasizes the need to understand disaster risk, investing in disaster risk reduction management, increasing disaster awareness programs, and enhancing community disaster preparedness for effective response.   This year’s theme, "Tamang Pamamahala't Kahandaan, Kaalaman at Pagtutulungan sa Sakuna at Pandemya'y Kalasag ng Bayan," focuses on the strengthening of disaster risk governance and the collaboration of all Filipinos to overcome the challenges of the pandemic and to build a green and resilient normal.   The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) recently officially declared the start of the rainy season. Due to our geographical location, an average of 20 tropical cyclones enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility every year, and most develop into typhoons. The worsening climate influences the intensity of these weather disturbances, therefore incurring more loss and damages to communities. With this, the Commission reminds the public to heighten disaster preparedness and undertake preventive measures to lessen the impact of natural hazards.   The climate body also encourages local governments to invest public resources wisely in long-term and improved urban planning and disaster risk reduction aligned with the latest climate science; and to lead and engage their respective cities, municipalities, and provinces in promoting a culture of safety and resilience engaging all stakeholders and sectors, raising awareness on disaster and climate risk at community and family level, and improving local early warning systems.   Individuals and communities can contribute to disaster preparedness simply by participating in the conduct of safety drills, knowing evacuation places and preparing emergency "go bags", dredging of canals and esteros, and segregating and recycling garbage, among many others.

MANILA, 30 June 2021 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) lauded the Davao City Government on the signing of an ordinance banning single-use plastics in the city, citing the landmark ordinance as part of growing momentum towards a national ban.   “We laud the Davao City Government for enacting this much-needed ordinance which will help address the problem of plastic pollution and chart a more sustainable development path for Davao City,” said CCC Commissioner Rachel Herrera.   The “No to Single-Use Plastics Ordinance of 2021” was enacted by the Sanggunian on March 2, and recently signed by Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio. It will ban the use of single-use plastics in the city, and will regulate their sale and distribution. Among the products to be prohibited include cups, condiment packets and containers, stirrers, straws, and cutlery.   “Davao City is now one of the nearly 500 local government unit which have ordinances prohibiting SUPs,” Herrera noted.   “More and more LGUs across the country are taking the initiative to address the problem of plastic pollution, and it is high time for a national law so that action on this front becomes more effective, more impactful, and more sustainable,” she added.   The CCC, led by its Chairperson-designate Department of Finance Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez, has been pushing for the passage of a law to phase-out single-use plastics starting with the most problematic types, citing this campaign “as a crucial component of effective solid waste management and climate crisis action.”   Along with advocates and stakeholders, the CCC provided inputs to the House of Representatives technical working group that consolidated multiple bills regulating SUPs filed in the lower house, resulting in House Bill 9147 which has been approved on second reading.   The proposed legislation will begin a phased ban on SUPs as part of the broad range of solutions needed by the country, including establishing Extended Producer Responsibility or EPR, which will hold producers responsible for collecting and recycling the amount of plastic they produce and introduce to the market; improving waste management; incentivizing consumers, retailers, and manufacturers; exploring alternatives to SUPs; and raising awareness and changing behaviors.   In its position paper on the bill, the CCC emphasized that it is aligned with the aim to “to advance realistic solutions to address the challenge of single-use plastics pollution and provide a clear pathway for the pursuit of sustainable consumption and production,” adding that a law “will serve as an overarching framework and a unified policy to strengthen the impact of existing local ordinances that currently ban or regulate single-use plastics across [the Philippines].”

MAYNILA, ika-30 ng Hunyo taong 2021 — Magtitipon-tipon virtually ang ilan sa mga masisigasig na urban gardeners upang magbahagi ng karanasan sa pagsisimula ng home at community food gardens, sa episode na “May Pagkain sa Bakuran" ng Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways (CCC), ang online discussion na pinangungunahan ni Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda at ng Climate Change Commission. Gusto nating mahikayat ang mga kabahayan at pamayanang makapagsimula ng mga taniman para sa food security lalo ngayong panahon ng panedmya.   Makakasama sa online na talakayan sina Diding Libao, lider ng Inang Maria’s Garden ng Payatas; Christine Joy Tomate at Jeanny Flojimon ng Food Today Food Tomorrow, Payatas; Atty. JC Tejano ng Urban Green Commune; at Nicole Obligacion, isang urban gardener mula sa Anyone Can Garden Facebook blog. Naka livestream ito sa Huwebes, ika-01 ng Hulyo 2021, 10:00 AM via Facebook Live sa facebook.com/CCCPhl at facebook.com/iamlorenlegarda.   Inilantad ng kasalukuyang pandemya ang kahinaan ng tradisyunal na food supply chain na nagbabanta sa pagkain at seguridad sa nutrisyon ng mga Pilipino. Bilang solusyon, ginawang communal food garden ang ilan sa mga kabahayan, bakuran, at mga bakanteng lote, kabilang na sa mga depressed areas. Unti-unti na ring nauuso ang container gardening bilang food source at recreational activity alinsunod sa quarantine restrictions na ipinapatupad sa buong bansa. Hinihikayat din ang mga manonood na kumuha ng mga practical tips mula sa mga panauhin.   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 at ngayo'y 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 ng Mother Earth Foundation.

MANILA, 29 June 2021 — Urban gardeners will gather virtually to share their experience of setting up and maintaining their home and community food gardens and to encourage households and communities to start their own edible gardens on the 51st episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways,” with the topic, “May Pagkain sa Bakuran.” The episode, conceptualized and hosted by three-term former Senator, now Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, will air on Thursday, 1 July 2021, 10:00 AM via Facebook Live at facebook.com/CCCPhl and facebook.com/iamlorenlegarda. Joining the online conversation are guests including Diding Libao, leader of Inang Maria’s Garden of Payatas; Christine Joy Tomate and Jeanny Flojimon of Food Today Food Tomorrow Payatas; Atty. JC Tejano of Greenfields Green Commune; and Nicole Obligacion,  urban gardener of Anyone Can Garden Facebook blog. The current pandemic has exposed the vulnerability of food supply chains to shocks, that threaten the food and nutritional security of Filipinos. Homes, backyards, and empty lots, including those in depressed areas, were transformed into communal food gardens, helping Filipinos survive the pandemic. Container gardening  is also observed to rise as a source of food and recreational activity following the quarantine restrictions implemented across the country. The upcoming episode will encourage the viewers to grow food at home and in communities – as one way to secure and ensure a steady supply of safe and nutritious food in these challenging times. As an online discussion to promote health, environmental consciousness, and climate-adaptive practices, "Stories for a Better Normal" aims to change the mindset of individuals, families, and communities by demonstrating ways in which a ‘better normal’ can be realized within our communities. This online discussion is organized in partnership between the Office of Deputy Speaker Legarda and the Climate Change Commission, with support from the Department of Education, Philippine Information Agency, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, The Climate Reality Project-Philippines and Mother Earth Foundation.

MANILA, 26 June 2021 - PNoy, as many called him, was an ally of the climate movement. Together with French President François Hollande, he spearheaded the Manila Call to Action on Climate Change in 2015 to call on all nations to work collectively and swiftly to fight climate change. Later that year at the 21st Conference of Parties to the United Nations Convention on Climate Change or COP21, he urged fellow world leaders to adopt the Paris Agreement as a testament of global solidarity and as a fair and legally binding treaty to stop global warming and climate change.  Under his leadership, the Philippines committed to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 70% by 2030 with its Intended Nationally Determined Contributions through the support of developed countries.  PNoy also signed into law Republic Act 10174 creating the People’s Survival Fund, which seeks to allocate annually P1 billion pesos for the provision of grants for climate change adaptation and resilience-building projects of local communities.  The CCC expresses its deepest sympathies to the Aquino family.

Farmers, weavers, and fisherfolks in Siargao learn sustainable livelihoods while promoting their culture. Photo from the presentation of Kara Rosas of Lokal Lab Siargao. MANILA, 25 June 2021 —  The 50th episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Pathways” highlighted the ways on how travel can be sustainable, inspiring, and life-changing in the better normal, on the first part of “Sustainable Travel Series” featuring the island of Siargao in Surigao del Norte.   Siargao is known for its world-class surf spots, sparkling white sand islets, turquoise tide pools, and palm tree-laden lagoons.   The online conversation conceptualized and hosted by three-term Senator, now Deputy Speaker and Antique Representative Loren Legarda featured individuals and organizations in Siargao including Andi Eigenmann, vlogger of “Happy Islanders”; Vice Mayor Alfredo Matugas Coro II of Del Carmen, Surigao del Norte; Jerlyn Rabaca, School Administrator of Espoir School of Life Inc.; and Kara Rosas, Executive Director of Lokal Lab Siargao who shared and promoted ecosystems protection, climate resilience, and sustainable tourism in the island.   "Naging passionate ako about helping raise awareness on how to live a sustainable life. I care so much about the environment especially the ocean, because it brought me so much joy over the years. For me it's just one thing, to educate the locals and the visitors that come here and hope that I can influence them to be more mindful as people who live here and to be able to know how to preserve and care for the island they live in. And for the tourist na sana marealize nila na hindi nila ito bahay at sana tratuhin nila ito with respect and with care, 'leave nothing but footprints' sabi nga nila,” said Andi Eigenmann as she shared how she enjoys living the island life.   “We focus on social tourism to connect people with nature and with Siargao. It is a form of tourism that brings travelers to local communities with the goal of not only gaining pleasure from the experience, but also contributing to places they’re been visiting. We developed an eco-tourism industry that capitalizes on our biggest asset which is the mangrove forests and the vast municipal waters,” said Vice Mayor Coro as he tackled “Siargao it Up!,” a social tourism and mangrove management project of Del Carmen LGU.   "We all need someone who will believe in us, especially if the students are coming from underserved areas. Sa simpleng paniniwala ng isang eskwelahan, doon mabubuo yung pangarap ng isang bata. Aside from teaching them academically, we also wanted to teach them leadership habang bata pa sila, and to love the environment kung saan sila lumaki at pangalagaan 'yon," said Jerlyn Rabaca as she presented the advocacy of Espoir School of Life, a non-profit organization that provides free education to underprivileged children in Siargao.   "What we really want here at Lokal is to create a new way of life and to show that sustainability can happen, and it's not that difficult. It's through networking and empowering the local community working 'alongside them' rather 'for them', we're actually able to commit to a sustainable change. And more than anything, what we and Lokal want to show is that anyone really can help out as long as you're committed and you believe in what you're doing and the locals who also want to help out, and that's how you can make a change," said Kara Rosas as she shared the advocacy of Lokal Lab Siargao, a non-profit organization that supports and empowers the local community through impactful and sustainable projects that promote local culture.   Legarda, with co-host Atty. Ipat Luna, lauded the initiatives of the guests and committed to support the locals of Siargao by implementing measures that will enhance the local climate-adaptive capacities of communities, and at the same time, promote domestic tourism and travel sustainably.   “The time is not enough to be able to show the good things Filipinos actually do, the excellent work that the Filipino youth are modelling to the elders and we are showing to the world. It gives me the inspiration to see that you are embracing a life of nature and culture of sustainability in your own way and giving due respect to those who toil and till the land, to those who give food on the table,” 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-23 ng Hunyo taong 2021 — Magtitipon-tipon virtually ang ilang individuals and organizations mula sa Siargao upang isulong ang natural resource protection, climate resilience, at sustainable tourism sa ika-50 episode ng seryeng “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Pathways,” na may temang, “Sustainable Travel Series: Siargao”.   Ang online na talakayan, na hango sa konsepto ng dating three-term Senator, na ngayo’y Deputy Speaker at Antique Representative Loren Legarda, ay ipapalabas sa Huwebes, ika-24 ng Hunyo 2021, 10:00 AM sa Facebook Live  facebook.com/CCCPhl at facebook.com/iamlorenlegarda.   Kabilang sa mga panauhin ay sina Vice Mayor Alfredo Matugas Coro II ng Del Carmen, Surigao del Norte; Andi Eigenmann, celebrity at social media influencer; Jerlyn Rabaca, Espoir School of Life educator; at Kara Rosas, entrepreneur founder ng Lokal Lab. Magbabahagi sila ng paglalakbay nila tungo sa better normal sa pamamagitan ng kani-kanilang lifestyle, advocacy at community-based enterprises sa Siargao.   Ang kasalukuyang pandemya ang naging dahilan upang mapabuti ang kalagayan ng industriya ng turismo sa bansa, na nagdulot ng oportunidad upang magkaroon ng sustainability sa sektor. Ang episode na ito ay magsisilbing platform upang isulong ang lokal na turismo at mga pamamaraan ng sustainable na paglalakbay sa kabila ng mga travel restrictions na patuloy pa ring ipinatutupad.   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 isabuhay 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, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, The Climate Reality Project-Philippines at ng Mother Earth Foundation.

MANILA, 22 June 2021 — Individuals and organizations from Siargao will gather virtually to promote ecosystems protection, climate resilience, and sustainable development on the 50th episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways,” with the topic, “Sustainable Travel Series: Siargao.”   The program, conceptualized and hosted by three-term former Senator, now Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, will air on Thursday, 24 June 2021, 10:00 AM via Facebook Live at facebook.com/CCCPhl and facebook.com/iamlorenlegarda.   Joining the online conversation are guests including Vice Mayor Alfredo Matugas Coro II of Del Carmen, Surigao del Norte; Andi Eigenmann, celebrity and social media influencer; Jerlyn Rabaca from Espoir School of Life; and Kara Rosas from Lokal Lab Siargao, to share ways on how travel can be sustainable, inspiring, and life-changing post-pandemic or in the better normal.   The pandemic has led to a rethink in the tourism industry, providing an opportunity for more sustainability in the sector. While there are certain travel restrictions still in place, the upcoming episode will serve as a platform to promote domestic tourism and ways to travel sustainably.   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-21 ng Hunyo taong 2021 —  Sa ika-49 na episode ng seryeng “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Pathways” na nag-tampok ng limang nagtatag ng zero-waste at makabagong mga community pantries na nagtataglay ng di lamang bukas-palad na pakikipag-kapwa, kundi pati narin sustainable na mga paraan para mabigyang  inspirasyon ang mas maraming mga Pilipino na bawasan ang kanilang paggamit ng mga plastic packaging.   Ang online na talakayan ay hango sa konsepto ng dating three-term former Senator, na ngayo’y Deputy Speaker at Antique Representative na si Loren Legarda. Kabilang sa mga panauhin ang mga community pantry organizers na sina Adeline Almelor mula sa Brgy. San Miguel, Iriga City Camarines Sur Zero Waste Community Pantry; Jay-vee Mendoza ng Anahaw, San Pedro, Laguna Community Plant-ry; Edren Llanillo, Co-founder ng Go Bike Project sa Bugallon, Pangasinan; Maricon Alvarez ng Mother Earth Foundation (MEF) Malabon Community Pantry; at Evelyn Vergara, Founder ng the Community Reading Pantry ng Tabotong Elementary School sa Sarangani Province.   “Dapat hangaan ang mga community pantries sa innovation, sa bayanihan, sa unique na ugali ng mga Pilipino na tumulong hangga't kaya, at sa katapatan ng mga Pilipino” sabi ni Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda.   Ibinahagi ng mga guests kung paano pinapayagan ng kani-kanilang community pantry ang mga tao na mag-donate at kumuha ng mga pagkain at iba pang pangunahing mga pangangailangan nang libre, habang ang iba naman ay namamahagi ng mga gulay at halaman para tulungan ang mga tao na magtanim ng sarili nilang pagkain. Ang ibang mga pantry ay nakapag-bibigay din ng serbisyong pang-kalusugan at pang-edukasyon.   “Nakakataba talaga ng puso na maging daluyan ng pagtutulungan.  Habang binibigyang-diin natin ang “gift of sharing", masaya kaming maipakita ito at umaasa na makahikayat pa ng iba na mayroong mga alternatibo sa single-use plastics,” sabi ni Adeline Almelor.   "Ang slogan po ng Anahaw Community Pantry ay 'Take what you can plant, share what others can sow.' Ito ay inspired sa community pantry ng Maginhawa bagaman nilagyan namin ng konting twist – ang sine-share namin dito ay mga halaman, mga punla at kaalaman sa pagtatanim," sabi ni Jay-vee Mendoza.   “Simple lamang ang konsepto ng GO BIKE Project. Una, mag-train ng mga kabataan para maging emergency responders, at maging first aiders sa panahon ng sakuna. Pangalawa, mag-customize, mag-disenyo ng mga bisikletang gagamitin nila upang tumugon doon sa mga aksidente, o para magbigay ng first aid sa sino mang nangangailangan ng tulong. It’s a combination of youth na biker volunteers, first aider, tapos meron na rin silang gagamiting bike sa pagliligtas natin ng mga buhay,” sabi ni Edren Llanillo.   "Nang dumating ang community pantry, naisip namin na ang ganda ng konsepto na tumutulong ka. Why not help the community na nakakausap natin sa araw-araw na  i-embrace yung konsepto ng zero-waste," sabi ni Maricon Alvarez.   “Ginawa namin ang Reading Community Pantry na kung saan inilabas namin ang reading materials from our reading corner sa school at inilatag sa pantry, kasama ng mga snacks na binili galing sa sariling bulsa at iilang donors,” sabi ni Evelyn Vergara.   Ang community pantry ay isang serbisyong nakapag-bibigay ng mga goods direkta sa lokal nating mga mamamayan sa ilalim ng isang "trust system" kung saan ibinabandera ang slogan na, “Take what you need, give what you can.” Ang panimulang community pantry na nabuo sa gitna ng pandemya ay makikita sa Maginhawa Street sa Quezon City.   Hinikayat ni Deputy Speaker Legarda ang lahat kasama ng iba pang mga community pantries na gayahin ang sustainable na mga kasanayan sa pamamagitan ng pagbibigay sa mga tao ng mga binhi at mga halaman upang makapag-tanim sila sa kani-kanilang mga tahanan sa halip na bigyan lamang sila ng mga instant foods.   “Hindi lang dapat bigay ng bigay, hindi tayo dapat forever na umaasa sa iba. 'Di lang natin dapat bigyan ng isda ang tao, bagkus turuan din natin siyang mangisda'. Sa ganitong pagkakataon, bigyan natin ang mga tao ng punla, para makapag-tanim siya ng sarili niyang pagkain. Bigyan natin ang mga tao ng pagkain, ngunit mas mabuting maturuan ang nga tao kung paanong makapagtanim sila ng sarili nilang pagkain,” 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 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 Legarda at ng Climate Change Commission (CCC) na binigyang-suporta naman ng Department of Education, Philippine Information Agency, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, The Climate Reality Project-Philippines at ng Mother Earth Foundation.

MANILA, 19 June 2021 — The Climate Change Commission honors Dr. Jose Rizal’s patriotism and unequivocal dedication and commitment to serving the country in commemoration of his 160th birth anniversary today.   Citing historical accounts, while in exile in Dapitan, Dr. Jose Rizal contributed to the construction of the town’s first water system, the development of hills into orchards of fruit-bearing trees, the creation of livelihoods from these projects, and the draining of marshes to rid the community of malaria.   He also helped plan the now sprawling city in Zamboanga by carrying out various projects such as the construction of an aqueduct that provided people with clean water and the building of fish pens. He also advocated for the draining of swamps to avoid being breeding places of mosquitoes, use of coconut oil lamps to light up streets, and turning the town into a green space by planting trees. He was engaged in farming, planting trees and crops, and showing the local people how to improve their agricultural productivity through enhanced methods like irrigation.   As a present tribute to the national hero, the CCC urges all Filipinos to continue his work of caring for the environment by introducing innovative solutions to issues and problems of the country, especially in light of the biggest threat to humanity and development, which is climate change.   The CCC also encourages the youth to follow the advocacies of Dr. Rizal, not just in the aspect of protecting the rights and sovereignty of the Filipino people, but also with regard to preserving the environment, to move towards the country’s desired progress to be a truly strong, independent nation.