MANILA, 27 May 2021 — Leaders from the government, academic, and development sectors shared strategies and initiatives and explored ways of collaboration to promote circular economy, sustainable consumption and production, and address single-use plastics, in a meeting led by the Cabinet Cluster on Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation and Disaster Risk Reduction (CCAM-DRR) and the World Bank Group.   Government agencies highlighted the importance of this dialogue with development partners, with Environment Undersecretary Analiza Rebuelta-Teh pointing to the circular economy to "provide an answer to our problem through reduce, reuse, recycle, and regenerate materials that will restore our environment” and Finance Assistant Secretary Paola Alvarez expressing the support of the Department of Finance to "the urgent passage of a measure regulating single-use plastics, as we recognize the necessity of eliminating plastic pollution for a more sustainable environment...By curbing the use of single-use plastics, every Filipino will do his/her part in helping save the country and the world's environment."   The World Bank, European Union Delegation to the Philippines, and the United Nations Human Settlement Programme (UN-Habitat) meanwhile presented their initiatives and expressed their commitment to help the Philippines and other countries in advancing policies, projects, and programs that would promote circularity and sustainability.   Ms. Madhu Raghunath, the World Bank Group’s Sector Leader for Sustainable Development for Brunei, Malaysia, Philippines, and Thailand, said that “the ASEAN region accounts for about 20% of the global plastic production, which is expected to grow given its economic growth, rapid urbanization, and changing consumption and production practices." Mr. Christopher Rollo, Country Programme Manager of the UN-Habitat Philippines, also stressed the transformative role that cities play in achieving sustainable development goals.   Mr. Giovanni Serritella, EU Delegation to the Philippines’ Programme Manager for Environment and Climate Change Development Cooperation, shared action items for the transition to circular economy as a top policy priority for the EU. "In the EU, we are against the unsustainable use of plastic––particularly, single-use plastics––because of the significant carbon footprint it carries due to plastic production. Plastic manufacturing approximately contributes to 8% of yearly oil production, and continuing on the yearly trend, by 2050, we will be at 10-20% if things don't change. That translates into contribution of about 100-500 million tons of CO2 emitted every year," Serritella said.   Undersecretary Mercedita Sombilla of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) presented the Philippine Action on Plan for Sustainable Consumption and Production (PAP4SCP) and the needed priority actions, such as extending responsibility of plastic producers for take-back, collection and recycling, the expansion of market-based instruments, setting up of “green informatics,” and strengthening green public procurement to operationalize the plan. Assistant Director Vizminda Osorio of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-Environmental Management Bureau also presented on the National Plan of Action on Marine Litter and the strategies to build partnerships and synergies at the local level.   Assistant Director Marie Camille Castillo of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) also committed that they will continue to develop Philippine National Standards on Circular Economy and Sustainable Consumption and Production, as well as further implement the National Eco-Labeling Program - Green Choice Philippines (NELP-GCP).   House Committee on Ecology Secretary Atty. Dilbert Quetulio presented House Bill 9147 or the Single-Use Plastics Regulation Bill, which seeks the phaseout of single-use plastics starting with the most problematic types, and establishing the extended producers responsibility scheme. “The committee tried to balance the economic, societal, and environmental implications of the bill," Quetulio said.   The agencies and organizations present vowed to continue working together on policies and measures, including the formulation of a national roadmap towards zero single-use plastics and in identifying more partners to promote circular economy and sustainability principles and practices, with Climate Change Commissioner Rachel Herrera emphasizing how a whole-of-society approach is critical to ensure success, taking into consideration institutional capacities at the local level for implementation and the socio-economic impact of the proposed policies and regulations.   In his closing message, DENR Undersecretary Benny D. Antiporda expressed, "From this introductory meeting, we will now be moving forward. We know that the transition cannot be made overnight, but by building consensus, partnerships, and momentum, we should expect good results within a reasonable period.”

MAYNILA, ika-26 ng Mayo taong 2021 — Bilang pagdiriwang ng Buwan ng Karagatan (Oceans Month) ngayong Mayo at sa paparating na World Environment Day ngayong ika-05 ng Hunyo, magsasama-sama virtually ang ilan sa mga kilalang young Filipino environmental advocates upang pag-usapan at makapagbahagi ng kani-kanilang kaalaman ukol sa pagtataguyod ng pakikilahok ng kabataan sa usapin ng pangangalaga at pagprotekta ng kapaligiran sa ika-46 na episode ng seryeng “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways,” na may temang, “Pinoy Changemakers.”   Pinangungunahan ni dating three-term Senator, at ngayo'y Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda ang episode na mapapanood sa Huwebes, ika-27 ng Mayo 2021, 10:00 AM via Facebook Live sa facebook.com/CCCPhl at facebook.com/iamlorenlegarda.   Kabilang sa online na talakayan ang mga environmental advocates na sina Antoinette Taus, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Goodwill Ambassador at Founder ng CORA at The Sustainable Planet; Carmela Ellaga, isang Fisheries Technologist; Gab Mejia, conservation photographer at environmental storyteller; at Ranielle Navarro, guro mula Albay Central School at 2021 NatGeo awardee.   Sa nakaraang mga episodes, pinag-usapan sa online na serye kung paanong nagsusulong at nagpapanatili ang mga kabataang lider ng kanilang mga climate initiatives sa gitna ng pandemya at naibabahagi ang ginamit nilang climate-friendly technologies at sustainable entrepreneurial ventures sa larangan ng renewable energy, at ecological solid waste management, bukod sa iba pang climate change adaptation at mitigation efforts.   Samantala, tampok sa episode na ito ang pagkilala sa mga environmental advocacies na sinimulan ng mga kabataang Pilipino, na siyang makapang-hihikayat sa mga manonood – lalong-lalo na ang kabataan – na maging malikhain at gamitin ang teknolohiya upang maging changemakers tungo sa isang better normal para sa kapakanan ng tao at kaligtasan ng mundo.   Bilang isang online na talakayan upang maisulong ang kalusugan, kamalayang pangkapaligiran, at mga kasanayan sa pag-angkop sa klima, 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 mula sa Department of Education, Philippine Information Agency, Philippine Commission on Women, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, The Climate Reality Project-Philippines and Mother Earth Foundation.

Mahigpit na ipinatupad ang social distancing at health protocols habang ipinagdiriwang ang Pahiyas Festival. Litrato mula sa presentasyon ni Maria Jennifer L. Babat, Tourism Officer ng Lucban, Quezon. MAYNILA, ika-25 ng Mayo 2021 — Binigyang-diin ng mga ahensya ng kultura at turismo mula sa iba't ibang mga probinsya sa bansa ang makabago, luntian, at sustenableng paraan sa pagdiriwang ng mga pistang Pilipino sa kasalukuyang panahon nitong ika-45 na episode ng seryeng “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Pathways,” na may temang, “Sustainable and Green Philippine Festivals.”   Pinangunahan ni Deputy Speaker at Antique Representative Loren Legarda ang nasabing online na talakayan na kung saan tampok sina Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat at Assistant Secretary Verna Covar-Buensuceso ng Department of Tourism (DOT); Ms. Maria Jennifer Babat, Tourism Officer ng Lucban, Quezon; Mr. JC Cadiao Perlas, Provincial Tourism Officer ng Antique; Mr. Rommel Flogen, Artistic Director ng Dinagyang Festival sa Iloilo; at si Mr. Alphonsus Tesoro, Former Head ng National Committee on Central Cultural Communities ng National Commission for Culture and the Arts at sa ngayo'y Provincial Tourism at Cultural Affairs Officer ng Capiz.   "Tangkilikin at pangalagaan ang sariling atin. Kung iisipin natin, paano ang turismo, kabuhayan, at ang ating ipakikita sa mga kabataan, sa mga turistang lokal, at foreign tourists kung kalbo ang ating kabundukan, kung marumi ang ating mga ilog, kung mabaho ang mga nagkalat na basura, at hindi sinusunod ang mga batas pang-kalikasan,” pahayag ni Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda.   Ibinida ng mga panauhin ang kani-kanilang sustenable at makabagong mga pamamaraan sa pagdiriwang ng mga pista tulad ng Pistang Pahiyas sa Quezon, Pistang Binirayan sa Antique, Pistang Dinagyang sa Iloilo, at Pistang Capiztahan sa Capiz, at hinikayat ang ating mga pamayanan na isama ang sustenableng paraan ng pagdaraos ng mga online events, upang maiwasan ang aksayadong pagkonsumo, habang itinataguyod ang sustenableng pamumuhay, isinasagawa ang recycling, pagbabawal sa paggamit ng single-use plastic, at sa halip ay ang paggamit ng eco-friendly na mga materyales.   "Ang mga pistang Pilipino sa gitna ng panahon at kampanyang better normal ay isang naaangkop na tema sa panahong ito dahil alam naman natin, na ang Mayo ay ang buwan ng mga pista dito sa Pilipinas. Ang mga pista na ito ay humahakot ng libu-libong mga manonood at kasama rin dito ang daan-daang mga kasali sa kaganapan - mula sa mga kasaling designers, dancers, make-up artists, at florists. Marami sa kanila ay nawalan ng pangunahing pinagkukunan ng pinagkakakitaan noong hindi itinuloy ang mga pista dahil sa kasalukuyang pandemya. Ngunit ang paglilipat ng mga pista online at ang paglikha ng mas maliit at mas ligtas na mga produksyon ay naging epektibong pamamaraan para mapanatili ang industriya ng turismo at ang hilig ng ating mga mamamayan,” ayon kay Sec. Romulo-Puyat.   "Slow food at slow travel ay kagaya rin ng isang pista ngunit ito ay mas maihahalintulad mo sa isang caravan. Habang tayo ay naghahanda para sa pag-restart ng tourism, ang ginagawa namin ay iniikot namin ‘yung mga food tourism destinations at naghahanap kami ng mga bagong experiences. Kung saan makikita ‘yung mga pinuntahan for a particular development of slow food at slow travel. Ang idea dito is for us to be able to put together festivals and celebrate our traditional cuisine, our indigenous resources, and our indigenous food tourism products," aniya Asec. Covar-Buensuceso.   “Nagsagawa po kami ng aming virtual San Isidro Pahiyas Festival na may temang 'Pagkalinga sa Kultura, Lucbangon Narito Na' which means 'Lucban, bangon in times of crisis'. Hindi katulad ng mga nakaraang Pahiyas Festival na halos lahat ng kabahayan ay nagpapahiyas, ngayong taon po na ito, ang aming opisina lamang ang pinahiyasan, ‘yan po ang Lucban Tourist Information Center sa gitna ng kabayanan ng Lucban. Kami sa San Isidro Pahiyas Festival Executive Committee ay nagdaos mula May 01-15, 2021 at ito po ay nasa Marcos Tigla Park. Ito po ay bahagi ng aming programa na Lucbangon Turismo,” pagbabahagi ni Ms. Maria Jennifer Babat.   "Sa gitna ng pandemyang ito, kailangan ng mga tao na magkaroon ng tinatawag na groundbreaking thinking within the box dahil sa iilang mga limitasyong hinaharap natin. Tulad ng ginawa at naranasan namin sa Pistang Binirayang, kung saan idinaos namin ang Pistang Binirayan sa palengke ng Kapitolyo kung saan ito'y siya na rin naging isang Food Market, at ang Binirayan Sikad Lagaw ay siyang aming naging pista ng bisekleta, at ang Binirayan Plant Fair," saad ni Mr. JC Cadiao.   "Bawat Dinagyang, nasa five judging areas lang kami na may stage, na may judges, na may spectator, but this time lumabas po kami sa comfort zone namin. Lumapit po kami sa environment - sa kalikasan, so we have several shoots po sa mga gubat, sa mga dagat. Outdoor lahat. Na-appreciate namin ang lahat ng mga district ng Iloilo and of course, ang mga magagandang tourist spot ng Iloilo City," sabi ni Mr. Rommel Flogen.   “Ngayon, nitong pandemic, kinakailangan natin maging innovative. Since nag-start itong ating crisis last year bumuo kami ng Recovery and Rehabilitation Plan di lamang para sa turismo kundi para na rin sa buong gobyerno ng probinsya... since wala tayong face-to-face events, tinutukan namin ang documentation at research. Isa rito ang mga sayaw Capiznon, lalong-lalo na maraming na-inventory sa gitna ng cultural mapping at marami pa ring na-research ang aming mga dance researchers na kasapi ng Philippine Folk Dance Society - South Capiz Chapter,” sabi ni Mr. Alphonsus Tesoro.   Bilang isang online na talakayan upang maisulong ang kalusugan at kamalayang pang-kapaligiran, naglalayon ang "Stories for a Better Normal" na baguhin ang kaisipan ng mga tao, mga pamilya, at mga pamayanan sa pamamagitan ng pagpapakita ng mga pamamaraan kung saan maaaring magkaroon tayo at maisasabuhay natin ang isang ‘better normal’ sa loob ng ating mga pamayanan.   Na-organisa ang online na talakayang ito mula sa pagtutulungan ng tanggapan ni Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda at ng Climate Change Commission (CCC) na binigyang-suporta naman mula sa Department of Education, Philippine Information Agency, Philippine Commission on Women, at non-governmental organization partners na Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, The Climate Reality Project-Philippines at Mother Earth Foundation. 

MANILA, 25 May 2021 — In celebration of the Month of the Ocean this May and the upcoming World Environment Day this June 5th, young Filipino environmental advocates will gather virtually to promote meaningful youth engagement in environmental conservation, protection, and restoration on the 46th episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways,” with the topic, “Pinoy Changemakers.”   The episode, hosted by three-term former Senator, now Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, will air on Thursday, 27 May 2021, 10:00 AM via Facebook Live at facebook.com/CCCPhl and facebook.com/iamlorenlegarda.   Joining the online conversation are environmental advocates including Antoinette Taus, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Goodwill Ambassador and founder of CORA and The Sustainable Planet; Carmela Ellaga, Fisheries Technologist; Gab Mejia, a conservation photographer and environmental storyteller; and Ranielle Navarro, a teacher from Albay Central School and 2021 NatGeo awardee.   In previous episodes, the online series tackled how youth leaders are driving and sustaining their climate initiatives amid the pandemic and shared climate-friendly technologies and sustainable entrepreneurial ventures in the areas of renewable energy, and ecological solid waste management, among other climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts.   This episode will feature and recognize environmental advocacies initiated by young Filipinos, and will encourage audiences – especially the youth – to harness the power of creativity and technology to become changemakers towards a better normal for people and the planet.   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, 24 May 2021 — For the second part of the “Climate Change is Changing our Coastal and Marine Ecosystems” webinar organized by the Climate Change Commission (CCC)  and RARE Philippines, marine experts and local government officials will discuss how the climate is changing in the country – and specifically how this impacts on local coastal communities.   The webinar will air on Tuesday, 25 May 2021, 1:00 PM via Facebook Live at facebook.com/CCCPhl and facebook.com/RareOrgPH.   The upcoming webinar will feature experts including Dr. Julie Mae P. Dado from the Regional Climate Systems Laboratory of the Manila Observatory; Prof. Jessica D. Bercilla from the University of the Philippines-Visayas; and Vice Mayor Alfredo M. Coro II from municipality of Del Carmen, Surigao del Norte to discuss the current and observed climate change data in Philippine coasts, mainstreaming risk assessment in planning, and climate change data gaps and challenges from the local government perspective.   On May 18, the first of the three-part webinar was held with scientists from the CCC’s National Panel of Technical Experts (NPTE) and the UP Marine Science Institute (UP-MSI) sharing their studies to build awareness on how the climate is changing the country’s marine and coastal ecosystems.   For this session, the spotlight will be on local communities who are situated at the forefront of climate impacts and action.   The three-part webinar series aims to provide the public a broader understanding of the importance of science and data for informed policies on oceans. This is aligned with the overall goal of the United Nations Decade of the Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030) with the theme, “The Science We Need for the Ocean We Want.” For more information about the “Climate Change is Changing our Coastal and Marine Ecosystems”, visit the Facebook pages of the Climate Change Commission and RARE Philippines.

MANILA, 22 May 2021 — In observance of the International Day for Biological Diversity today, the Climate Change Commission highlighted nature-based approaches as part of solutions for biodiversity loss and climate change for the Philippines, as one of the megabiodiverse countries in the world.   “Biodiversity is the web of life. Let us not forget that biodiversity feeds and heals, provides us air and water, and is a source of livelihood and recreation. Development without environmental safeguards, and unsustainable land degradation, overgrazing and deforestation, pollution, overfishing, hunting, land-use change, and overuse of freshwater, are pushing ecosystems to the limit," the CCC said.   This year’s theme, “We're part of the solution #ForNature,” serves as a reminder that biodiversity remains the answer to several sustainable development challenges - climate, health issues, food and water security, and sustainable livelihoods.   The CCC also encouraged local government units to integrate biodiversity conservation into the country’s local development agenda through the enforcement of environmental laws, and for individuals to adopt a zero-waste lifestyle and join campaigns that aim to eliminate single-use plastics which are a major source of marine and land pollution and contribute to climate change.   The CCC said, "The solution begins with us, and now. To sustain us and future generations, we need to protect our nature as the capital for development and prosperity for those who will be born beyond our time.

Social distancing and health protocols were observed even in the celebration of Pahiyas Festival. Photo from the presentation of Ms. Maria Jennifer L. Babat, Tourism Officer of Lucban, Quezon. MANILA, 21 May 2021 — Tourism and culture officers from various provinces in the country highlighted the innovative, green, and sustainable ways of celebrating Philippine festivals in the better normal  during the 45th episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Pathways,” with the topic, “Sustainable and Green Philippine Festivals.” The online conversation hosted by three-term Senator, now Deputy Speaker and Antique Representative Loren Legarda featured national and local government officials, tourism officers, and cultural artists including Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat  and Assistant Secretary Verna Covar-Buensuceso of the Department of Tourism (DOT), Ms. Maria Jennifer Babat, Tourism Officer of Lucban, Quezon; Mr. JC Cadiao Perlas, Provincial Tourism Officer of Antique;  Mr. Rommel Flogen, Artistic Director of Iloilo’s Dinagyang Festival, and Mr. Alphonsus Tesoro, Former Head of the National Committee on Central Cultural Communities of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, now Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Officer of Capiz. "Tangkilikin at pangalagaan ang sariling atin. Kung iisipin natin, paano ang turismo, kabuhayan, at ang ating ipakikita sa mga kabataan, sa mga turistang lokal, at foreign tourists kung kalbo ang ating kabundukan, kung marumi ang ating mga ilog, kung mabaho ang mga basura, at hindi sinusunod ang mga batas ng ating kalikasan,” said Legarda. The guests featured safe, ustainable, and innovative ways in celebrating festivals such as Pahiyas Festival in Quezon, Binirayan Festival in Antique, Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo, and Capiztahan Festival in Capiz, and encouraged communities to embed sustainable and green practices in observing various festivities through shifting to online events, avoiding wasteful consumption, promoting sustainable lifestyles, practicing recycling, banning the use of single-use plastics, and using eco-friendly materials, among others. "Philippine festivals in the better normal is a timely topic because as we all know, May is the month of fiestas in the Philippines. These festivals draw thousands of spectators and involved hundreds of people - from participants, designers, dancers, make-up artists, and florists. Many of them have lost their major source of income when festivals were canceled due to the pandemic. But transitioning festivals online and creating smaller and safer productions have been a way to sustain the industry and the interest of the people,” said Sec. Romulo-Puyat. "Slow food and slow travel is like a festival but it is more of a caravan. Habang tayo ay naghahanda para sa pagrestart ng tourism, ang ginagawa namin ay iniikot namin yung mga food tourism destinations at naghahanap kami ng mga bagong experiences. Kung saan makikita yung mga pinuntahan for a particular development of slow food and slow travel. Ang idea dito is for us to be able to put together festivals and celebrate our traditional cuisine, our indigenous resources, and our indigenous food tourism products," said Asec. Covar-Buensuceso. “Nagsagawa po kami ng aming virtual San Isidro Pahiyas Festival na may temang 'Pagkalinga sa Kultura, Lucbangon Narito Na' which means 'Lucban, bangon in times of crisis'. Hindi katulad ng mga nakaraang Pahiyas Festival na halos lahat ng kabahayan ay nagpapahiyas, ngayong taon po na ito, ang aming opisina lamang ang pinahiyasan, ‘yan po ang Lucban Tourist Information Center sa gitna ng kabayanan ng Lucban. Kami sa San Isidro Pahiyas Festival Executive Committee ay nagdaos mula May 1-15, 2021 at ito po ay nasa Marcos Tigla Park. Ito po ay bahagi ng aming programa na Lucbangon turismo,” said Ms. Babat.                                                                                                                                                                       "During this pandemic, people need to have a groundbreaking thinking within the box due to some parameters. So with the Binirayan Festival, we have the Binirayan Kapitolyo Market which is the food fair, Binirayan Sikad Lagaw which is our bike festival, and the Binirayan Plant Fair," said Mr. Cadiao. "Every Dinagyang, nasa five judging areas lang kami na may stage, na may judges, na may expectator, but this time lumabas po kami sa comfort zone namin. Lumapit po kami sa environment - sa kalikasan, so we have several shoots po sa mga gubat, sa mga dagat. Outdoor lahat. Na-appreciate namin ang lahat ng mga district ng Iloilo and of course, ang mga magagandang tourist spot ng Iloilo City," said Mr. Flogen. “Ngayon, itong pandemic, we have to be innovative. Since nag-start itong ating crisis last year we crafted the Recovery and Rehabilitation Plan not only for tourism but the entire provincial government... since wala tayong face-to-face events, we focused on the documentation and research. Isa dito ang mga Capiznon dances, especially na maraming na-inventory during the cultural mapping at marami pa ring na-research ang aming mga dance researches na kasapi ng Philippine Folk Dance Society - South Capiz Chapter,” said Mr. Tesoro. 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, National Commission for Culture and the Arts, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, The Climate Reality Project-Philippines and Mother Earth Foundation.

The 1,472 hectares Candijay Mangrove Forest in Panadtaran, Candijay, Bohol houses at least 36 species of mangroves, most of which are “bakauan” or  the Rhizophora Stylosa. Photo from https://www.bohol-philippines.com/candijay-mangrove-forest.html. MANILA, 20 May 2021 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) and its National Panel of Technical Experts (NPTE), in partnership with RARE Philippines and the UP Marine Science Institute (UP-MSI), successfully convened the first of the three-part online webinar series on the effects of climate change on coastal and marine ecosystems. The virtual webinar, organized in celebration of the Month of the Ocean, gathered more than 500 participants, consisting of members of the academe and research institutions in the Philippines and abroad, government agencies, policymakers, and organizations  leading community-based initiatives, to build awareness on the current and future state of marine and coastal ecosystems in the Philippines. The said webinar featured presentations from NPTE members Dr. Laura T. David and Ms. Lourdes Tibig, and Dr. Caroline Marie B. Jaraula, Assistant Professor from UP-MSI on their studies on historical climate data and evolution of marine and coastal ecosystems and the highlights of ocean acidification as reported on the IPCC Special Report on the Ocean and Cryosphere in a Changing Climate (SROCC). “When we talk about climate change in the marine environment, we don’t just talk about temperature change, which is usually the focus in the terrestrial environment. We also talk about the changes in the patterns, the delivery of rainfall, as well as extreme events in that area, ocean acidification, and sea level rise,” said Dr. David. “We will look into the geologic records as a proxy record especially in critical areas or times where we do not have ample data sets that were measured. We’re also looking at the present-day analogs of forecasted global warming scenario, warmer seas, and effects of ocean acidification. Climate change is not just a physical process; it is a bio-chemical phenomenon that can impact our health, economy, food security, and geopolitical stability,” said Dr. Jaraula. Tibig, one of the lead authors of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s Special Report on the Ocean and Cryosphere in a Changing Climate emphasized that over the years, the ocean takes excess heat leading to the decline of its acidity level. “Based on the global trends of the IPCC SROCC, the ocean has warmed unabated since 1970, and has taken up more than 90% of the excess heat in the climate system. The rate of ocean uptake of atmospheric carbon has continued to strengthen in the recent two decades in response to the increasing carbon concentration in the atmosphere. As a consequence, the ocean is continuing to acidify in response to ongoing ocean carbon uptake, and open ocean surface water pH is observed to be declining by a range of 0.017-0.027 pH units per decade since the late 1980s,” said Ms. Tibig. Through his opening remarks, CCC Commissioner Noel Antonio Gaerlan encouraged the participants to drive positive actions within the communities in an effort to save the coastal and marine ecosystems. “Marine life is vital to support human life. Our lives are linked closely to the ocean and the rich marine resources that it yields. We must act accordingly and work together to find the much-needed balance in using the resources of our oceans and protecting its biodiversity to ensure that it benefits us in a sustainable manner,” Gaerlan emphasized. The three-part webinar series aims to provide the public a broader understanding of the importance of science and data for informed policies on oceans. This is aligned with the overall goal of the United Nations Decade of the Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030) with the message, “The Science We Need for the Ocean We Want”. The full webinar can be accessed through this link: https://www.facebook.com/CCCPhl/videos/2935422240112073 The second part of the online webinar, airing on Tuesday, May 25, will focus on how the climate is changing in the country and specifically its impact on local coastal communities. For more information about the “Climate Change is Changing our Coastal and Marine Ecosystems”, visit the Facebook page of the Climate Change Commission at www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.

MANILA, 18 May 2021 — National and local government officials, tourism officers, and artistic directors, will gather virtually to feature the celebration of Philippine festivals in safe and sustainable ways on the 45th episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways,” as part of the “Sustainable and Green Philippine Festivals” series.   The episode, hosted by three-term former Senator, now Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, will air on Thursday, 20 May 2021, 10:00 AM via Facebook Live at facebook.com/CCCPhl and facebook.com/iamlorenlegarda.   Joining the online conversation are resource persons including Assistant Secretary Verna Covar-Buensuceso of the Department of Tourism (DOT), Mayor Celso Olivier Dator of Lucban, Quezon, JC Cadiao-Perlas, provincial tourism officer of Antique, and Rommel Flogen, artistic director of Iloilo’s Dinagyang Festival, and Alphonsus Tesoro, National Committee on Central Cultural Communities of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts to discuss Philippine festivals in the better normal and encourage communities to embed sustainable and green practices in observing various festivities through shifting to online events, avoiding wasteful consumption, promoting sustainable lifestyles, practicing recycling, banning the use of single-use plastics, and using eco-friendly materials, among others.   Due to the coronavirus pandemic, countries, including the Philippines, have imposed lockdowns and quarantine restrictions to avoid the spread of the virus. Businesses and celebrations are mostly undertaken virtually, particularly meetings, gatherings, and festivals.   More than a year into the quarantine, Filipinos are continuously finding innovative means to celebrate, paving the way towards sustainable and greener festivities which gave birth to the collaboration between the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the DOT for an online program that allow Filipinos abroad to enjoy Philippine festivals “virtually” amid the 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 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. 

Several indigenous groups in Tuminugan Farm learn and practice regenerative acriculture. Photo from the presentation of Renée Perrine, Co-Founder of Hineleban Farms. MANILA, 10 May 2021 — Sustainable farming advocates highlighted the socio-economic, environmental, and climate benefits of regenerative agriculture - a farming method that improves the resources it uses rather than destroying or depleting them through technologies that revitalize the soil and the environment during the 44th episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Pathways,” with the topic, “Farms of the Future.”   The online conversation hosted by three-term Senator, now Deputy Speaker and Antique Representative Loren Legarda featured sustainable farming experts including Moises Butic, Ifugao muyong system practitioner; Renée Perrine, Co-Founder of Hineleban Farms; and Nicolo and Paula Aberasturi, Founders of Earth Flora Inc. They shared their regenerative agriculture practices and gave tips on how to secure and ensure a steady supply of safe and nutritious food even in the most challenging of times.   “What are the challenges facing the Ifugao terraces landscape? There is a lack of appreciation for the value of trees, and the widespread use of fast-growing tree species disturbs and changes the landscape of the original muyong or agroforestry plants. There should be more studies on values associated with the multi-functionality of the muyong and the rice terraces. We should also add more programs to sustain and enhance local initiatives geared toward the promotion of the Ifugao culture among the new generation,” said Mr. Butic.   “When we cover the soil, we actually enhance the soil health. Our number one rule or motto is ‘Zero soil leaves the land’. Second thing is to use the resources that God gave us, which is water. We are in a tropical climate so usually we have a lot of rain, but in 2015-2016,  we had a long extensive drought. We have to be climate-resilient to both drought and flood,” said Ms. Perrine.   “Filipinos are one of the most creative people in the world. Current government efforts have been towards mechanization and digitalization of agriculture without putting much effort into soil building. Healthy soil is the backbone of the Philippine agriculture and the quickest and cheapest way to raise farmer productivity and income. If farmers are given the right tools and training, they can run a very profitable farm business. This will start attracting young people back to farming,” said Mr. and Mrs. Aberasturi.   As a home gardener herself and author of House Bill No. 637 or the Food Forest Gardening Act of 2019, Legarda emphasized that the application of regenerative agriculture can produce high quality, nutrient-dense food while simultaneously improving the land, and ultimately leading to productive farms and healthy communities and economies.   "Ang problema ng pagbabaha ay dahil sa siltation ng mga ilog dulot ng soil erosion. Ang precious soil na galing sa mga slopes at kabundukan ay nag-eerode dahil sa maling paggawa ng agrikultura. Nahuhubad ang ating lupa so nawawala ang nutrients ng soil, nakakasagabal pa sa ilog, nagbabaha pa sa mga tabing-dagat o tabing-ilog, at nagdudulot ng mas malaking disaster. Pero kung aalagaan natin ang ating soil in a regenerative way ay magiging mayaman ang lupa, maganda pa ang ating mga tanim, at hindi pa magso-soil erosion at river siltation," Legarda concluded.   As an online discussion to promote health, environmental consciousness, and climate-adaptive practices, "Stories for a Better Normal" aims to change the mindset of individuals, families, and communities by demonstrating ways in which a ‘better normal’ can be realized within our communities.   This online discussion is organized in partnership between the Office of Deputy Speaker Legarda and the Climate Change Commission, with support from the Department of Education, Philippine Information Agency, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, The Climate Reality Project-Philippines and Mother Earth Foundation.

MANILA, 4 May 2021 — Sustainable farming advocates will gather virtually to share knowledge on the socio-economic, environmental, and climate benefits of regenerative agriculture on the 44th episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways,” with the topic, “Farms of the Future.”   The episode, hosted by three-term former Senator, now Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, will air on Thursday, 6 May 2021, 10:00 AM via Facebook Live at facebook.com/CCCPhl and facebook.com/iamlorenlegarda.   Joining the online conversation are resource persons including Moises Butic, Ifugao muyong system practitioner; Renée Perrine, Co-Founder of Hineleban Farms; and Nicolo and Paula Aberasturi, Founders of Earth Flora Inc.   In previous episodes, the online series tackled various topics on sustainability including food gardening and saving seeds, permaculture, planting native trees, and millennial farming to encourage audiences to adopt a healthier and more environment and climate-friendly lifestyle—as needed now in this COVID-19 pandemic and climate emergency.   This episode will feature groups that practice sustainable and regenerative agriculture, a farming method that improves the resources it uses, rather than destroying or depleting them, through technologies that revitalize the soil and the environment.   Regenerative agriculture leads to healthy soil, capable of producing high quality, nutrient-dense food while simultaneously improving land which leads to productive farms and healthy communities and economies. It is dynamic and holistic, incorporating permaculture and organic farming practices, including conservation tillage, cover crops, crop rotation, composting, to increase food production, farmers’ income and especially, topsoil.   A global shift to regenerative agriculture can feed the world, decrease greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to climate change mitigation, improve yields, revitalize local economies, preserve traditional knowledge, nurture biodiversity, and improve nutrition.   As an online discussion to promote health, environmental consciousness, and climate-adaptive practices, "Stories for a Better Normal" aims to change the mindset of individuals, families, and communities by demonstrating ways in which a ‘better normal’ can be realized within our communities.   This online discussion is organized in partnership between the Office of Deputy Speaker Legarda and the Climate Change Commission, with support from the Department of Education, Philippine Information Agency, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, The Climate Reality Project-Philippines and Mother Earth Foundation

MANILA, 3 May 2021 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) welcomed Nestlé Philippines’ commitments to halving their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2030 and achieving net zero by 2050 – even as the business continues to grow. This was during the 2021 Net-Zero Fair: Nestlé’s Contract with the Planet event virtually held April 30. Nestlé, among the world's top food and beverage manufacturers, declared 92 million tonnes of GHG emissions in 2018 - more than half of which came from the process of sourcing the ingredients for their products.   “From now until 2025, we will accelerate and expand the work already undertaken to achieve a 20% reduction in emissions. Between 2025 and 2030, we will transform our operations to achieve a 50% reduction of emissions. Finally, from 2030 to 2050, we will work to balance our emissions by exploring how we offset any remaining emissions through high-quality carbon removal projects or innovation, the result of which will be net-zero emissions,” Nestlé declared in its Net Zero Roadmap.   To achieve these milestones, Nestlé pledged to take action across agriculture, operations and products, including:   ·Protecting trees and landscapes that help absorb carbon and planting 20 million trees every year for the next 10 years; ·Working with farmers to shift to regenerative ways of growing ingredients for food, including for the products produced; ·Ending deforestation in the primary supply chains by 2022; ·Completing the transition to 100% renewable electricity in the 187 countries operated by 2025; and ·Increasing the number of 'carbon neutral' brands to give consumers the opportunity to contribute to the fight against climate change.   CCC Secretary Emmanuel M. de Guzman noted that the company's commitment to shift towards carbon neutrality aligns with the country's objectives in its first Nationally Determined Contribution under the Paris Agreement on Climate Change.   The first Philippine NDC conveys an ambitious emissions reduction target of 75 percent from 2021 to 2030 compared to business-as-usual projections. It formalizes the country’s goal of pursuing a low carbon and resilient development for the agriculture, waste, industry, transport, and energy sectors over the decade.   "The role of business and industry in the climate agenda is critical. It stands with many others that hold significant resources and capacity for investment. If harnessed properly, these could drive innovation, create more opportunities, and improve millions of lives,” De Guzman said.   The CCC encouraged Nestlé and other businesses to responsibly and efficiently utilize principles of the circular economy through more efficient recycling, sustainable packaging, and reducing their carbon footprint. The company's fast moving consumer goods have been tagged in the 2020 Brand Audit Report of the Break Free From Plastic coalition as one of the world’s top plastic sources of marine litter.   The climate body is actively advocating for the passage of a law that would phase out single-use plastic products across the country according to set periods depending on the products' replaceability or recyclability. The phaseout will be complemented by the establishment of an extended producers responsibility (EPR) scheme to oblige companies to take-back, collect, and recycle their products and help reduce waste going into landfills or leaking into the natural environment.   “Government and individual actions are vital to addressing climate change. That we are increasingly being joined by partners in the large business sector is a positive and encouraging step forward. Nestlé Philippines is taking full responsibility for its climate footprint; we hope that initiatives like today’s inspire more private businesses to undertake bolder climate action, as we all work together to sustain the momentum and the gains for a safer and more secure future for all,” said de Guzman.

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

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

MANILA, 27 April 2021 — Entrepreneurs of the trendy Poblacion area in Makati will gather virtually to raise awareness on how local businesses are advancing environmental sustainability and preservation of cultural heritage on the 43rd episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways,” with the topic, “Makati Poblacion: Empowering Local.”   The episode, hosted by three-term former Senator, now Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, will air on Thursday, 29 April 2021, 10:00 AM via Facebook Live at facebook.com/CCCPhl and facebook.com/iamlorenlegarda.   Joining the online conversation are young entrepreneurs Samantha Nicole Samonte, Programming Director of Futur:st; Rachel Harrison, owner of Zambawood Private Event Space; Architect Jed Yabut, a rattan artist; and Chef Christine Zarandin, founding chef of Wantusawa Oysters.   In previous episodes, the online series tackled the role of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), particularly in the areas of traditional weaving and crafts, pottery and brickmaking, coffee production, and bamboo propagation, in providing environmentally sustainable and viable livelihood options to communities, while preserving cultural heritage and local craftspersonship.   This episode will highlight the collective efforts of entrepreneurs to bring Poblacion back to life, and make it the urban center and bright spot of hope for arts, culture, and environmental sustainability by reshaping the district’s identity amidst the pandemic. It will feature local spaces that support and empower homegrown brands and artists.   The COVID-19 pandemic and the associated quarantine measures took a toll on MSMEs, which comprise 99.5% of business establishments in the Philippines and employ about 63% of the country's workforce. According to the Asian Development Bank, 70.6% of MSMEs surveyed in the Philippines were forced to temporarily close due to the COVID-19 outbreak. As the lifeblood of the Philippine economy, MSMEs should be adequately supported to enable them to bounce back greener and more resilient.   As an online discussion to promote health, environmental consciousness, and climate-adaptive practices, "Stories for a Better Normal" aims to change the mindset of individuals, families, and communities by demonstrating ways in which a ‘better normal’ can be realized within our communities.   This online discussion is organized in partnership between the Climate Change Commission and the Office of Deputy Speaker Legarda, with support from the Department of Education, Philippine Information Agency, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, The Climate Reality Project-Philippines and Mother Earth Foundation.

MANILA, 26 April 2021 — Distinguished policymakers highlighted the pending legislation to ban single-use plastics (SUPs) during the 42nd episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Pathways,” with the topic, “The Single-Use Plastics Problem: Perspective from Policymakers.”   The online conversation hosted by Deputy Speaker and Antique Representative Loren Legarda was part of the Earth Day 2021 Webcast – PINASiglang Mundo held yesterday in celebration of the 51st anniversary of Earth Day aimed at driving support for planetary protection and action.   "Tayo ang may gawa ng pagkasira, ngunit nasa kamay din natin ang ating muling paghilom. May panahon pa para muli nating ibalik ang sigla ng ating kalikasan at kapaligiran," said Legarda.   The episode feature policymakers including Rep. Edgar Chatto,  Chair of the House Committee on Climate Change and Representative of the First District of Bohol; Rep. Jose Francisco “Kiko” Benitez, Chair of the House Committee on Ecology Technical Working Group on Single-Use Plastics and Representative of the Third District of Negros Occidental; and Mayor Noel Rosal of Legazpi City, Albay, Focal for Environment and Climate Change of the League of Cities of the Philippines.   All three policymakers strongly advocated for the importance of urgently reducing plastic pollution and raising awareness on its negative effects on public health and the environment, and encouraged stakeholders to support legislative and local efforts on banning single-use plastic products as an effective and immediate way to address the problems of pollution and climate change.   “Walang isang silver bullet o isang magic pill na makakatulong sa atin upang mawakasan ang problema sa plastik o climate change. Kailangan nating gamitin ang lahat ng available solutions to help combat our dependency to use single-use plastic. Sa ating pananaw, una ay ang pagpo-promote sa pagsupil ng throw-away mentality. Piliin ang reuse at recycle. Iwasan ang paggamit ng secondary packaging and bring your own bags. Nakapa-importante ng mga advocacies na ito on how to make people understand the connection between health and climate change to the change of behavior because this really affects how people will look at things. If we can practice this as a way of life then it becomes a system for everyone,” said Cong. Chatto.   “Either we believe we are in a climate emergency and we cannot wait, or we feel that emergency is not sufficient to increase our stepping up in tightening our regulations on single-use plastics, given that we, as a nation, are culpable globally as a really high leakage source of plastics into the ocean and the environment,” said Cong. Benitez.   “Ang atin pong addiction sa plastic ay medyo matagal-tagal na ‘yan. To wean us out of our habit on single-use plastics ay ‘di ganoong kadali. Pinagusapan po ng TWG ng Komite, kung ano ang pwedeng gawin para mabalanse ang pangangailangan ng industriya, ang pangangailangan ng ekonomiya, at ang pangangailangan ng kalikasan,” said Cong. Benitez.   “I always believe that when you do programs for the environment, hindi lang dapat launching and picture taking then tapos na. It should be sustainable, dapat meron sustainability and continuity – 'yan ang pinakamahalaga ngayon and it should be passed on generation to generation. Like in tree planting, kailangan balikan natin para diligan at bisitahin. After a year titingnan natin kung ano pwede natin intervention. Pag gumawa tayo ng program, it should be sustainable and have continuity,” said Mayor Rosal.   Legarda, a staunch environmental advocate and author of landmark environmental laws including RA 9729 or the Climate Change Act and RA 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Law, among others, will further campaign on reducing, if not eliminating single-use plastics by engaging the academe and other stakeholders to mainstream it at the community level.   "Kung lahat ng DepEd schools ang magsisimula kasama ng LGU, siguradong 'yan ang game changer. Kasi kapag teacher na ang magsabi, 'yung mga bata sasabihin sa magulang na mag-adapt sa zero waste lifestyle. So, we will partner with DepEd, we will engage district supervisors, principals, teachers, and non-teaching personnel to have intensive training focused on single-use plastics, para sila ang maging eco-warriors and champions on the ground,”  said Legarda.   As an online discussion to promote health, environmental consciousness, and climate-adaptive practices, "Stories for a Better Normal" aims to change the mindset of individuals, families, and communities by demonstrating ways in which a ‘better normal’ can be realized within our communities.   This online discussion is organized in partnership between the Office of Deputy Speaker Legarda and the Climate Change Commission, with support from the Department of Education, Philippine Information Agency, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, The Climate Reality Project-Philippines and Mother Earth Foundation.   The Earth Day 2021 Webcast – PINASiglang Mundo is organized by the Climate Change Commission, Department of Finance, Department of Education, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Office of Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda,  and The Climate Reality Project Philippines, in collaboration with the Break Free from Plastic Philippines coalition, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Local Government Academy, Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines, League of Cities of the Philippines, and British Embassy Manila, with support from the Philippine Information Agency, the Philippine Center for Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development Inc., Odistry, GMA Network, and CNN Philippines.   Watch the replay of the eight-hour webcast through this link:  https://facebook.com/CCCPhl/videos/475342813711718/.

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

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

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

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

MANILA, 20 April 2021 — In celebration of Earth Day this April 22, distinguished policymakers will gather virtually to share information on the current discussions on the bill to ban single-use plastics nationwide on the 42nd episode of “Stories for a Better Normal: Pandemic and Climate Change Pathways,” with the topic, “The Single-Use Plastics Problem: Perspective from Policymakers.”   The episode, hosted by Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, will air on Thursday, 22 April 2021, 10:00 AM via Facebook Live at facebook.com/CCCPhl and facebook.com/iamlorenlegarda, as part of the Earth Day 2021 Webcast – PINASiglang Mundo.   The Earth Day 2021 Webcast – PINASiglang Mundo is organized by the Climate Change Commission, Department of Finance, Department of Education, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Office of Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda,  and The Climate Reality Project Philippines, in collaboration with the Break Free from Plastic Philippines coalition, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Local Government Academy, Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines, League of Cities of the Philippines, and British Embassy Manila, with support from the Philippine Information Agency, the Philippine Center for Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development Inc., Odistry, GMA Network, and CNN Philippines.   Joining the online conversation are notable policymakers Rep. Edgar Chatto, Chair of the House Committee on Climate Change and Representative of the First District of Bohol; Rep. Jose Francisco “Kiko” Benitez, Chair of the House Committee on Ecology - Technical Working Group on Single-Use Plastics and Representative of the Third District of Negros Occidental; and Mayor Noel Rosal of Legazpi City, Albay, Focal for Environment and Climate Change of the League of Cities of the Philippines.   In previous episodes, the online series tackled the importance of urgently reducing plastic pollution and raising awareness on its negative effects on public health and the environment.   In this episode, Legarda and esteemed guests will further highlight the pending legislation to ban single-use plastics as the major advocacy that can maximize and deepen this year’s celebration of the Earth Day event.   This April 22 is the 51st anniversary of the Earth Day celebration, which aims to raise awareness and drive support for planetary protection and action. For this year, the theme “Restore Our Earth” underscores the need to address the global climate crisis and its resulting pressure on our ecosystems, biodiversity, food and water, public health, and our industries and communities.   This episode will encourage stakeholders to support legislative and local efforts on banning single-use plastic products as an effective and immediate way to address the problems of pollution and climate change.   As an online discussion to promote health, environmental consciousness, and climate-adaptive practices, "Stories for a Better Normal" aims to change the mindset of individuals, families, and communities by demonstrating ways in which a ‘better normal’ can be realized within our communities.   This online discussion is organized in partnership between the Office of Deputy Speaker Legarda and the Climate Change Commission, with support from the Department of Education, Philippine Information Agency, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, The Climate Reality Project-Philippines and Mother Earth Foundation.