The Climate Change Commission, led by Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje, convened the agreement signing for the 2026 cohort scholars in the Sustainable Leadership Learning on Climate and Disaster Risk Reduction program.   MANILA – The Climate Change Commission (CCC), in support of the Office of Senator Loren Legarda, continues its partnership with the Asian Institute of Management (AIM) to strengthen the capacity of climate leaders through the Sustainable Leadership Learning on Climate and Disaster Risk Reduction (SLL-CDRR) Scholarship Program. A signing ceremony was recently held for the new cohort of scholars, marking more than a formal agreement. “Today, you accepted a profound responsibility. You are now the designated champions within your respective agencies. The knowledge and skills you will acquire are not for your benefit alone; they are a trust granted to you by the Filipino people,” said Robert E.A. Borje, Vice Chairperson and Executive Director of the CCC. Supporting this message, Professor Erin L. Downey, Head of the Stephen Zuellig Graduate School of Development Management at AIM, emphasized, “This is far more than just paperwork. It is a commitment to your country and to the generations to follow. We look forward to witnessing the impact you will make. Let the work begin.” This marks the second year of the SLL-CDRR Program, which now welcomes the 2026 cohort. A total of 28 scholars were accepted, divided into two tracks: the Executive Masters in Disaster Risk and Crisis Management (EMDRCM) and the Master of Science in Data Science (MSDS). Under the EMDRCM program, 24 scholars will undertake an 18-month program focusing on management approaches to disasters and crises in the Asian region. The curriculum includes analytical methods, operational tools, and strategic systems that guide leaders in disaster risk and crisis management across different contexts and scales. Meanwhile, four scholars will pursue the 15-month MSDS program, deepening their expertise in data science and its role in formulating data-driven strategies to address real-world challenges, including those related to climate change and disaster risks. The scholars are expected to specialize in climate change adaptation and mitigation (CCAM) and disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM), producing academic outputs aligned with the CCC’s policy priorities. The program’s first batch, which started last year, is set to graduate in the coming days, further showcasing the program’s continued success in developing capable climate and disaster resilience leaders. Meanwhile, Borje extended his warmest congratulations to the 2025 cohort, noting that they are true agents of change whose leadership will shape programs and policies addressing climate and disaster risks nationwide. The SLL-CDRR scholars come from national government agencies with mandates related to climate change and disaster risk reduction. Their participation strengthens the government capacity to plan, implement, and scale policies and programs that address climate and disaster risks. The students undergo a rigorous selection process that includes evaluation of their climate-related work, aptitude tests, and interviews. In line with this, the selection of scholars ensures gender balance, with 50 percent of slots specifically allocated for women. Furthermore, the scholars come from a wide range of regions, including CAR, Regions II, III, IV, IV-A, VI, VII, VIII, IX, XI, XII, XIII, and NCR, ensuring diverse geographic representation across the country. Through the SLL-CDRR Program, the government aims to build strategic human capital in pursuit of its mandates on climate change adaptation and mitigation and disaster risk reduction and management, contributing to a Philippines that is more resilient, adaptive, and sustainable. The CCC extends its deepest gratitude to Senator Legarda for her continued support in nurturing climate leaders and strengthening their capacity to build a more climate-resilient Philippines. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.

Participants from national government agencies, private sector, civil society organizations, academe and development partners convened in “Philippines NDC 2025: Raising Ambition Towards a Climate-Resilient Future” held on 03 December 2025 in Mandaluyong City. MANILA, Philippines | 3 December 2025 — As the Philippines continues preparations for its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) 2025 submission, the Climate Change Commission (CCC) engaged key partners in a stakeholder consultation to strengthen the country’s efforts to update the NDC based on evolving priorities and national circumstances. The consultation activity focused on presenting the indicative NDC 2025 overall and sectoral commitments, ensuring that these reflect national development priorities and stakeholder concerns. The Official Representative of the President to the CCC, Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) underscored the importance of recalibrating from the business-as-usual scenario to reflect the current economic realities and sectoral growth and improved emissions data. This recalibration, he noted, is crucial to strengthen accuracy, transparency and integrity. “To deliver on the NDC, we continue to fortify our monitoring, reporting and verification systems so that we can measure progress, identify gaps and refine policies as needed.” CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje emphasized that this part of the updating process scales up climate action and lays out a clear and ambitious pathway across all sectors that is anchored on transparency and broad ownership. “By linking our natural ecosystems with energy, transport, industry and agriculture, we are not just setting targets on paper, we are creating a roadmap that turns ambition into action that builds a resilient, low-carbon and inclusive future,” Borje said. Sectoral agencies—DENR, Department of Energy, Department of Transportation, and Department of Agriculture—presented their respective mitigation pathways, including finalized policies and measures (PAMS), mitigation potentials, and sectoral targets covering energy, transport, agriculture, forestry and land use (FOLU), waste, and industrial processes and product use (IPPU). These presentations underscored significant opportunities for emissions reduction and resilience-building, while also outlining challenges that require strengthened cooperation among national and local governments, the private sector, and development partners. In the afternoon breakout sessions, participants from government, civil society, academe, LGUs, and development partners engaged in open dialogues to provide detailed inputs on sectoral commitments. Discussions focused on ensuring that NDC targets are actionable, achievable, and aligned with local realities—particularly on just transition pathways, financing needs, capacity building, and monitoring and reporting mechanisms. Key messages from the breakout groups highlighted the need to accelerate renewable energy deployment, strengthen sustainable transport systems, protect natural ecosystems, ensure food security, scale up nature-based solutions, enhance waste management systems, and increase support for local governments who serve as frontliners in climate action. The CCC noted that insights gathered through the engagement will feed into the finalization of the NDC 2025, ensuring that the document not only raises ambition but also reflects a unified national effort to contribute to the global 1.5°C goal. These efforts aim to not only perform the whole-of-government approach alone, but also to highlight that the NDC pursues an economy-wide and whole-of-society approach to ensure legitimacy, broad ownership, and collective resolve needed to turn commitments into real and lasting outcomes.

Women and Youth Awardees of the Philippine Resilience Awards 2025 held at the Philippine Normal University as part of the 18th Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness Week. MANILA – The Philippine Resilience Awards (PRA) honored three women and five young climate champions whose initiatives are strengthening resilience in their communities. The ceremony was held at the Philippine Normal University in Manila as part of the 18th Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness Week (CCC Week). Nominees underwent rigorous assessment and field validation conducted by experts from partner institutions. The evaluation focused on how each initiative reduces vulnerability, strengthens local capacities, and advances innovation in climate and disaster resilience. From this process, exemplary awardees emerged in both the Women and Youth categories. In the Women’s Category, Undersecretary Diana Rose S. Cajipe of the Department of Social Welfare and Development was recognized for the  Buong Bansa Handa Program, a supply chain model that enhances operational readiness in relief delivery. Jenelyn J. Salimbagat of the National University received recognition for the Family Emergency and Disaster Preparedness Plan (FEDPP), a household-based program that equips individuals—especially youth—with practical preparedness skills. Renebelita F. Fuentebella, Co-Founder and Vice Chair of Damit Dignidad Pilipinas, was recognized for leading the collection and distribution of pre-loved clothing and essential personal items for humanitarian response. Five young climate champions were recognized in the Youth Category: Raymart S. Garcia of Barangay Commonwealth, Quezon City, was awarded for the Reskyusi Food Basket Program, which addresses malnutrition and food wastage through sustainable food systems. Val Amiel Vestil from the Association of Young Environmental Journalists was honored for Kwentong Kalikasan, a storytelling initiative that builds ecological awareness and climate resilience. Shri Tahanie B. Macaumbao of the National Youth Council received recognition for Green by Design, which promotes waste reduction and water sustainability in communities around Lake Lanao. Engr. Christian B. Hernandez of Mindanao State University was recognized for Project MOSES, an Internet of Things (IoT) - based weather monitoring system that addresses gaps in localized, real-time weather data in Oriental Mindoro. Peter John C. Enorio of Cebu Technological University was honored for the Subang Environmental Initiatives, which restore degraded lands and empower communities through nature-based adaptation solutions. Now in its third year, and anchored on the theme “Kababaihan at Kabataan: Katuwang sa Paghahabi ng Isang Matatag na Bayan,” the PRA highlighted the essential role of women and young leaders in advancing a climate-resilient Philippines. Senator Loren Legarda described the awardees as changemakers redefining resilience leadership. “Resilience cannot be achieved without women and youth at the center. They are not victims to be saved; they are leaders, innovators, and torchbearers,” she said. Meanwhile, Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje of the Climate Change Commission (CCC) emphasized the importance of recognizing local climate champions. “By recognizing these leaders, we are more than admiring resilience; we are actively investing in it. We are shifting our paradigm from resilience as recovery to resilience as protection and prevention,” he said. The event gathered institutional partners and members of the PRA network, including  Commissioner Rachel Anne S. Herrera of the Climate Change Commission; Mr. Silvestre Barrameda, Jr. as Executive Director of the National Resilience Council; Engr. Liza B. Silerio, Vice President of SM Prime and ARISE PH; Dr. Joseph Bacareza of ARISE PH; Commissioner Maria Jerika Larize E. Ejercito-Aguilar and Dr. Macario T. Jusayan of the Philippine Commission on Women; Assistant Secretary Gervy James Gumarit of the National Youth Commission; Assistant Secretary Lilian De Leon of the Department of the Interior and Local Government; and Mr. Antonio Emilio Tordesillas of WiNDRR Philippines. Members of the Field Validation Committee and Final Selection Board were also present. Initiated by Senator Legarda, the Philippine Resilience Awards is a multistakeholder program of the Climate Change Commission in collaboration with the Philippine Commission on Women, National Resilience Council, SM Prime, Women’s International Network on Disaster Risk Reduction, and ARISE Philippines. All awardees will receive continued support to expand and strengthen their resilience initiatives nationwide. For more inquiries, visit the PRA’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/PRAwards.PH.

The Climate Change Commission convenes a multi-sectoral cooperation signing to accelerate climate action and recognize the vital contributions of partners across sectors in the fight against climate change.   MANILA – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) continues to strengthen the country’s climate agenda through a whole-of-nation approach that brings government, academe, civil society, and the private sector into unified action toward a climate-resilient Philippines. The CCC signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with partners from various sectors to reaffirm and establish a shared climate agenda. Anchored in the theme “Strengthening Partnerships for Climate Action: Multi-Sectoral Cooperation Signing,” the initiative underscored the crucial role of collective work in addressing the climate crisis. Partners represent a wide range of sectors, including the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, government-owned and controlled corporations, Save the Children, Planoteerism, University of the Philippines Los Baños, Philippine Information Agency, Nueva Vizcaya State University, First Gen, and the United Nations World Food Programme. “In this critical decade, action cannot be delayed, and it cannot be shouldered by any single institution alone. This is the powerful truth that brings us together: climate change demands a whole-of-society response,” said Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje of the CCC. The signing formed part of the activities under the 18th Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness Week (CCC Week). “This signifies our solemn covenant between the NCIP and the CCC, alongside our partners. For us, this MOU is a powerful mechanism that ensures the wisdom and practices of Indigenous Cultural Communities are recognized, interfaced, and integrated,” said NCIP Chairperson Marie Grace T. Pascua. Nueva Vizcaya State University College Dean Jessie Pascual P. Bitog likewise emphasized the need for collaborative work to confront the global crisis. “We recognize that no single institution can address the climate crisis alone. Our experts are networked, and resources across our sectors create a powerful synergy that enables faster, broader, and more meaningful climate action.” Partners pledged, among other commitments, to advance joint climate communication and advocacy, support inclusive research, enhance local resilience, and strengthen climate change and disaster risk management through collaborative research, technical support, and policy guidance. The event also recognized individuals and long-standing partners for their contributions to climate action. Their dedicated efforts help build a climate-smart and climate-resilient Philippines. The CCC’s partners come from various sectors, including national government agencies, the private sector, civil society organizations, academic institutions, state universities and colleges, and media partners. All have demonstrated strong dedication and consistent support through awareness campaigns, technical assistance, and green initiatives. CCC Deputy Executive Director Romell Antonio O. Cuenca expressed his appreciation to the partners. “It is our privilege to honor the contributions of our partners. This recognition affirms the dedication and innovation each of you brings to this crucial fight. Your work inspires us all and sets the foundation for the results we continue to strive for.” The CCC remains steadfast in pursuing a whole-of-nation and whole-of-society approach to advance inclusive, progressive, and climate-resilient development for all Filipinos. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.

Commissioner Rachel Anne Herrera of the Climate Change Commission with the organizers and participants of the Aus4ASEAN Sustainable Energy Transition and Green Skills Fellowship Regional Immersion. 24 November 2025 | Makati City —- The Climate Change Commission (CCC) called for deeper regional cooperation on shared policy standards, harmonized green jobs data, technology transfer, cross-border energy integration, and joint financing mechanisms to de-risk renewable energy projects at the Aus4ASEAN Sustainable Energy Transition and Green Skills Fellowship Regional Immersion. CCC Commissioner Rachel Anne S. Herrera, in her keynote address, noted that according to the 2024 Asia Pacific Climate Report, the energy sector—responsible for 77.6% of greenhouse gas emissions in developing Asia—is both the region’s most critical challenge and its most powerful opportunity. She stressed that while renewable energy investments are rising, a truly resilient transition requires systems that are “just, inclusive, and grounded in people’s lived realities.” Herrera highlighted the Philippines’ coherent energy transition framework anchored in  the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) and the NDC Implementation Plan (NDCIP). She outlined concrete energy-sector policies and measures, including expanding the share of renewables, strengthening energy efficiency and conservation, promoting low-carbon transport, and advancing the creation of smart grids and ensuring continuous power supply for remote and climate-vulnerable communities. These measures are supported by long-term strategies under the National Climate Change Action Plan (NCCAP),  National Adaptation Plan (NAP), and Philippine Energy Plan (PEP) 2020–2040, which targets 35% renewable energy by 2030 and 50% by 2040. Herrera also underscored the growing momentum among Philippine companies transitioning to low-carbon operations—highlighting geothermal leadership, reforestation partnerships, solar PV deployment, and industrial decarbonization efforts. She cited Ormoc City’s geothermal-powered development and solar-powered irrigation, as well as Marikina City’s low-emission strategy pursued through efficient public buildings and protected bicycle lanes, as examples of how national energy policy becomes meaningful at the community level. Central to her message was the principle of inclusion. Herrera emphasized that a just transition must support workers; micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) women; youth; and vulnerable sectors. She also noted that consultations for the updated NDC ensure that youth, women’s groups, farmers, and indigenous communities help shape the Philippines’ future energy pathway. She reaffirmed the Philippines’ strong commitment to the UNFCCC Just Transition Work Programme, stating that climate change requires solutions built on solidarity and shared responsibility. “You are not just participants—you are partners in shaping our region’s future,” Herrera said. “Let us lead this transition together—with purpose, with community, and with each other.” Organized by the Australian Government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), the program convened youth energy and climate leaders from across ASEAN to explore regional leadership, policy pathways, and practical examples of low-carbon transformation.

The Climate Change Commission (CCC) partners with the University of the Philippines Los Baños - Interdisciplinary Studies Center for Integrated Natural Resources and Environment Management (UPLB-INREM) to advance science- and nature-based climate action by launching the country’s first carbon-neutral international conference through INREM 2025.   MANILA, 20 November 2025 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) strengthened its strategic partnership with the academic sector at the 5th International Conference on Integrated Natural Resources and Environment Management (INREM 2025), reinforcing the critical role of science- and nature-based solutions in building a climate-resilient Philippines. Held from 18 to 20 November, the conference was launched as the country's first carbon-neutral international conference. The event, co-developed and supported by the CCC, was organized by the University of the Philippines Los Baños - Interdisciplinary Studies Center for Integrated Natural Resources and Environment Management (UPLB-INREM). CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje, in his address, framed the national climate agenda from inspiration to actionable strategy. “Nations do not rise on strength alone—they rise on understanding. You—our scientists, researchers, policymakers—are the light that steadies the nation in moments of uncertainty. You take complex realities and render them knowable, actionable, and life-saving,” Borje said. He praised it as a “profound declaration” and a “new national benchmark.” Borje emphasized, “This is more than an event; it's a tangible, science-driven pathway that directly advances our National Adaptation Plan and our Nationally Determined Contribution. Carbon neutrality, powered by our natural ecosystems, is INREM 2025’s game-changer.” Senator Loren Legarda, in her keynote address, underscored the urgency of the gathering. “When nature-based solutions, INREM integration and strong policy move in one direction, a clear vision emerges. One that restores the systems that we have damaged and turns them into our strongest defenses.” Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla, also speaking at the conference, underscored the need for synergy, stating, “We are also strengthening partnerships with local governments, academic institutions, development organizations, and Indigenous Peoples—ensuring that environmental management is not just a government mandate, but a shared national movement.” On Day 3, Borje delivered the keynote address, synthesizing the conference's outcomes into a national call to action. He highlighted, “We cannot choose the climate we are born into. But we can choose the country we build in response to it. Let us build a Philippines that stands not as a symbol of risk, but as a beacon of readiness, innovation, and unity.” He stressed that integrated approaches and Nature-based Solutions (NbS) are not merely environmental goals but are central to the nation’s climate-proofed development. The collaboration at INREM 2025 underscores the CCC’s commitment to strengthening the science-policy interface and mainstreaming low-carbon, nature-based practices across all sectors, in direct partnership with the scientific community. The INREM 2025 served as a crucial platform for knowledge-sharing on managing lake and river basins, seascapes, and rural-urban systems, with the overarching goal of establishing communities of practice to promote NbS and INREM principles in policymaking and implementation across the Asia-Pacific region. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.

The Climate Change Commission, in partnership with the National Power Corporation and the Municipal Government of Paete, Laguna, convenes the 4th tree growing activity at the Caliraya-Lumot Watershed in Paete, Laguna PAETE, Laguna –The Climate Change Commission (CCC), in partnership with the National Power Corporation (NPC) and the Municipal Government of Paete, Laguna, kicked off the 18th Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness Week with a Tree Growing Activity at the Caliraya-Lumot Watershed to strengthen nature-based solutions  The initiative, known as Net Zero Challenge (NZC), forms part of the CCC’s continuing efforts to strengthen carbon offsetting and climate resilience, reflecting the urgency to continuously address the impacts of climate change, such as the recent and stronger typhoons. NZC underscores the critical role of forests in safeguarding communities and supporting the country’s pathway toward climate resilience. Robert E.A. Borje, Vice Chairperson and Executive Director of the CCC, emphasized the importance of stronger forest protection and restoration. His message was delivered by CCC Deputy Executive Director Atty. Romell Antonio O. Cuenca, who stated: “Sa harap ng ganitong mga trahedya, muling nakita ang napakahalagang papel ng ating mga kagubatan — ito ay bilang proteksyon laban sa pag baha at landslide, isa sa mabisang carbon sink na nagpapababa ng greenhouse gasses at nakatutulong magpababa ng temperatura ng ating atmospera.” Started in August 2023, the Net Zero Challenge aims to plant more than 15,000 seedlings across 25 hectares at the Caliraya-Lumot Watershed in Paete, Laguna by 2030 in alignment with the country’s commitment under the Paris Agreement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and limit global warming. A total of 400 seedlings of banaba, langka, and acacia were planted during the event. Borje emphasized this message, anchoring it on the vision of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for strengthened collaboration across all sectors.  “Ang epektibong climate action ay hindi kakayanin ng isang ahensya o isang sektor lamang. Kailangan natin ang whole-of-government at whole-of-society approach—mula pambansang pamahalaan, LGUs, pribadong sektor, kabataan, at mismong komunidad.” Jericho Jonas B. Nograles, NPC President, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to the initiative through a message delivered by Vincent B. Concio, Division Manager from NPC. “We reaffirmed our strong commitment to this shared responsibility of being co-stewards of nature. Today’s tree growing activity under the Net Zero Challenge in celebration of the 18th Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness Week is more than a day’s gathering, it’s a call to action of a whole-of-society approach towards strengthening collaboration against the impacts of climate change.” The NZC is the CCC’s carbon neutrality program that aims to contribute to global efforts to limit temperature rise to 1.5°C, as the reforestation of the 25 hectares at the Caliraya-Lumot Watershed is expected to sequester an estimated 75.5 metric tons of carbon dioxide. Present during the activity were representatives from the private sector, including Holcim Philippines, Inc. and Ahunan Power, Inc.; national government agencies such as Philippine Red Cross Region 4A (PRC R4A), Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (DENR PENRO), and Department of the Interior and Local Government – Laguna (DILG Laguna). The local government unit of Paete, Laguna, as well as development partners, state universities and colleges, civil society organizations, and media partners, also participated in the tree growing initiative. The CCC continues to work closely with the private sector, local governments, and communities to accelerate climate resilience, strengthen carbon sequestration efforts, and advance the country’s transition toward a climate-smart and sustainable future. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.

The Climate Change Commission (CCC) emphasized that the nation's greatest strength lies in the women, MSMEs, and communities that are already leading the way, at the Clean Tech Talks: Bridging Climate-Resilient Communities, Clean Technology Transition, and Capacity Building on Renewable Energy and Low Carbon Solutions with Government Partners and Women Entrepreneurs organized by UN Women held in Pasay City. MANILA, Philippines | 20 November 2025 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) underscored the critical role of women and youth, micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), and local government units (LGUs) in risk-informed planning to strengthen the nation’s climate resilience during the Clean Tech Talks 2025, held under this year’s Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness Week with the theme, “Makabagong Kilusan para sa Klima at Kinabukasan.” In his remarks, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje emphasized that resilience begins by equipping those at the center of action with the tools and opportunities to thrive in a changing climate. “Clean tech is where science meets survival, and survival meets opportunity. It is how we prevent loss instead of admiring resilience. It is how we safeguard livelihoods before they break. It is how we uplift communities before crises deepen,” Borje said. He also stressed that national frameworks must translate into direct benefits at the local level. “Frameworks only succeed when they reach the communities they are meant to serve,” he noted. To support this, the CCC highlighted how its Active Climate Change Engagement Leading to Resilient, Adaptive, and Transformative Empowerment (ACCELERATE) Framework strengthens LGUs’ capacity for risk-informed planning, enables MSMEs to adopt sustainable and circular solutions, equips women and youth with access to clean technologies and finance, and improves climate budgeting and knowledge across government. Borje added that strengthening the “center” of national resilience—making them informed, equipped, and supported—is what makes the country stronger. "When we strengthen the center—the women who lead, the MSMEs who innovate, the LGUs who deliver, and the communities whose future we are sworn to protect—we shift from resilience as recovery to resilience as protection, prevention, and permanence," he said. Meanwhile, Ma. Rosalyn Mesina of UN Women gave emphasis on renewable energy as a climate solution. “Renewable energy is not only a climate solution, it is an economic lifeline. Clean technologies can reduce energy costs for women entrepreneurs, expand their livelihood opportunities, and safeguard businesses from disaster-related disruptions,” Mesina explained. The event brought together clean technology providers, women entrepreneurs, local governments, financial institutions, and private sector actors to highlight the growing role of clean and renewable technologies in strengthening women’s economic empowerment and building climate-resilient livelihoods. It also advanced the goals of the EmPower Programme, jointly implemented by UN Women and the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), which supports women-led enterprises and promotes gender-responsive clean energy transitions. Aligned with the administration’s climate agenda and the President’s call for Makabagong Kilusan that is climate-smart and inclusive, the Clean Technology Talks 2025 served as a platform to expand partnerships and create pathways for collaboration, linking clean tech providers, financial institutions, government agencies, and women’s networks. The two-day event also provided a marketplace and training platform to build the capacities of women entrepreneurs, NGAs, and LGUs on renewable energy systems, clean technologies, and low-carbon solutions—advancing community-level empowerment and strengthening local climate resilience.

The Climate Change Commission (CCC) and the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) formalize a partnership to strengthen gender-responsive and inclusive climate action. This initiative was part of the 18th Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness Week. MANILA | 20 November 2025 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC), in partnership with the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), has launched a joint work plan to strengthen gender-responsive and inclusive climate action that places gender balance at the core of climate governance. The work plan highlights the shared commitment of both institutions to advance climate resilience by ensuring that women’s leadership, perspectives, and capacities inform national and local climate actions. Both CCC and PCW recognize the urgent need to address gender gaps in climate planning, implementation, and monitoring. This shows the importance of an inclusive and gender-balanced approach that enables women to fully participate in climate decision-making and benefit equitably from climate programs. CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje emphasized the critical role of women in building resilient communities and shaping climate policies. “Today, we recognize that truth—not by placing women on the margins of our frameworks, but by putting them at the center of our climate actions, policies, and investments.” The work plan aims to enhance gender-responsive climate policies and systems, strengthen institutional commitment to gender-responsive initiatives, and ensure the widespread adoption of gender-responsive tools and approaches across climate programs. Key outcomes are paired with indicators designed to sustain a gender-responsive system. These include: nationwide consultations with strong women’s representation for the Gender Action Plan of the National Adaptation Plan and the Nationally Determined Contribution; ensuring that all climate programs apply a gender lens from design to delivery; and institutionalizing the commitment of all sectors to use gender-responsive standards and tools. Borje added, “The true measure of this joint programme will be felt in the everyday lives of Filipinos—in safer communities, strengthened livelihoods, and more women empowered to shape climate action at the center of decision-making.” PCW Chairperson Ermelita V. Valdeavilla, represented by Executive Director Nharleen Santos-Millar, also highlighted the value of this collaboration. “This partnership allows us to combine efforts, raise awareness, and inspire action more effectively than we could alone. Like twins, it reminds us that we are stronger and more effective when we move together toward a common goal.” Also present during the signing were Commissioner Rachel Anne S. Herrera of CCC and Mr.  Macario Jusayan, Deputy Executive Director for Management Services of PCW. The CCC continues to collaborate with various agencies and partners to advance inclusive, gender-responsive, and people-centered climate action that strengthens resilience across all sectors. For more on the CCC's clmate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.

MANILA, Philippines | 19 November 2025 — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reaffirmed the administration’s strong commitment to climate action in a video message delivered marking the observance of Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness Week (CCC Week) 2025. The President emphasized that the annual observance reflects the country’s shared aspiration to build “a climate-resilient and environmentally sound nation.” He underscored that the week-long event serves as an essential platform for policymakers, scientists, private institutions, and communities to align national priorities with global climate commitments and the broader sustainable development agenda. President Marcos highlighted the vital role of all sectors in strengthening the country’s resilience through responsible resource use and the integration of climate intelligence in planning and decision-making. “As Chairperson of the Climate Change Commission, I reaffirm our determination to confront the challenges of climate change with decisive action, especially now as we continue to recover from the impact of recent calamities,” the President said. He cited ongoing government initiatives—including the National Adaptation Plan, the Nationally Determined Contribution Implementation Plan, and expanded programs in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and climate finance—as key pillars in building a more secure and inclusive future for all Filipinos. With this year’s CCC Week theme, Makabagong Kilusan Para sa Klima at Kinabukasan, President Marcos urged Filipinos to actively support national efforts to enhance climate resilience. He called on citizens to view climate action not only as a responsibility but also as a path toward long-term prosperity. “As we realize our vision of a Bagong Pilipinas, let us uphold climate governance, protecting the beauty and bounty of our land while ensuring the welfare of generations to come,” he said. Climate Change Commission Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje thanked the President for his steadfast leadership and direction in strengthening the country’s climate agenda. “We thank President Marcos for his continued guidance and commitment. Under his administration, we will continue to advance policies and actions that safeguard our people and secure our future,” Borje said. Under the Marcos Administration, the CCC was able to complete key transformative climate policy frameworks and submissions to the UNFCCC, including the Philippines’ first National Adaptation Plan, the Nationally Determined Contribution Implementation Plan, updated Greenhouse Gas Inventories, and the Philippines’ Biennial Transparency Report. President Marcos concluded with a message of solidarity and hope, encouraging all participants to pursue meaningful engagement throughout the week’s activities.

Climate Change Commission (CCC) Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje emphasizes the importance of circularity, sustainability, and resilience during the Climate Solutions Forum 2025: Scaling Circular Economy Solutions for Climate Resilience and Sustainable Growth held at Fairmont Makati. MAKATI CITY – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) emphasized the crucial role of circular economy solutions in strengthening climate resilience, ensuring business continuity, and supporting sustainable economic growth during the Sustainable Forum segment of the Climate Solutions Forum 2025: Scaling Circular Economy Solutions for Climate Resilience and Sustainable Growth. CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje stressed that building resilience requires moving away from “business as usual” and adopting a systemic approach that minimizes waste and loss and protects value across supply chains. “We cannot do business as usual. Resilience is not how fast we rebuild, but how less we need to. That is where the circular economy matters. It is not only a sustainability ideal; it is a cradle-to-cradle design choice that keeps value in use and risk in check,” Borje said, emphasizing circularity as a practical and scalable strategy for resilience and competitiveness. Borje further underscored that circularity must be driven by policy, partnerships, and innovation. He cited government frameworks that guide this transition, such as the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Act, the National Adaptation Plan (NAP), and the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) Implementation Plan—all aimed at aligning design with data and ambition with execution. Highlighting the policies under the guidance of President Ferdinand R. Marcos that provide predictability and confidence for businesses and investors, Borje said, “our role at the Climate Change Commission is to help sustain that coherence: align science with policy, policy with implementation, and implementation with transparent reporting.” He added that credible data and consistent rules help lower risk and enable long-term investments. Key leaders from government, the private sector, development partners, and civil society participated in the forum to advance discussions on policies, partnerships, and innovations that support the country’s transition toward a circular and climate-resilient economy. The event was organized by the Swiss Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (SwissCham Philippines) during its Annual General Membership Meeting. The CCC reaffirmed its commitment to work with industries, development partners, and local governments to scale circular economy models that reduce emissions, strengthen balance sheets and jobs, and build climate-resilient communities.

The Climate Change Commission joined the consultation led by the United Nations Development Programme with the Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion sector to ensure that inclusivity and diverse perspectives are reflected in updating the Nationally Determined Contribution of the Philippines. MANILA, Philippines — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) convened key stakeholders to reaffirm and strengthen the integration of Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) in the Philippines’ Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), which outlines the country’s strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and build climate resilience as part of global efforts to limit temperature rise and mitigate climate impacts. Aligned with the country’s commitments under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the NDC Implementation Plan, and the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) principle of "Leave No One Behind,” the CCC, together with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), organized a series of regional consultations. These consultations, supported by the Philippine Commission on Women, National Council on Disability Affairs, and National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, aimed to ensure that the voices of vulnerable groups—who are disproportionately affected by climate change—are meaningfully represented in national climate policies. The discussions focused on six key sectors: agriculture, waste, industrial processes and product use (IPPU), transportation, forestry, and energy. CCC Commissioner Rachel Anne S. Herrera emphasized that while vulnerable groups face heightened risks to their livelihoods, health, and safety, they also play a vital role in driving transformative climate action and are powerful agents of change whose contributions can make our NDC more effective. Herrera said the GEDSI approach allows sectors to articulate their unique needs and vulnerabilities, thereby ensuring that national climate actions effectively respond to local contexts. In Metro Manila, participants co-developed recommendations to strengthen policy and implementation measures. They called for community-scale renewable energy projects such as solar and micro-hydro in Indigenous Peoples’ (IP) areas, improved accessibility of transport fleets and terminals, and urban agriculture, including rooftop and school gardens to cut food costs and support key relevant sectors and stakeholders. For waste and industry, they pushed for neighborhood circular economy practices, segregation at source, composting, and small-scale upcycling enterprises—linking composting to gardens and schools to close local loops and promote sustainability. In Baguio City, communities urged stronger support for farmers in agriculture and forestry, capacity building for vulnerable sectors to climate change, and greater empowerment of grassroots communities. They also recommended policies on surplus food management and wider adoption of organic farming to aid the waste and industry sectors. For transport and energy, participants proposed assistive devices for PWDs and improved access to financial resources, such as the Peoples’ Survival (PSF) and Green Climate Fund (GCF). In Bacolod City, participants prioritized scaling up renewable energy investments and capacity-building initiatives, as well as designing inclusive transport systems that consider marginalized sectors. They also called for reforestation using endemic fruit species and the strengthening of community-based forest management. For waste and industry, participants emphasized the need for financial and technical support to LGUs for establishing waste management facilities and food processing centers for IP farmers. In Cagayan de Oro City, participants shared practical recommendations across the sectors of waste, transportation and energy, agriculture, and forestry. These include sustained cleanup and information drives, waste-to-resource initiatives, and incentives for composting. They also suggested reviewing coal plant operations for compliance, promoting solar energy in shared spaces, and providing electricity discounts for persons with disabilities. For agriculture and forestry, participants emphasized inclusive training for farmers, stronger participation of marginalized and Indigenous communities, and support for non-timber livelihood programs. Meanwhile, Floradema Eleazar, Head of the Climate Action Programme of UNDP Philippines, underscored the organization’s continued commitment. “UNDP reaffirms its strong support for the Government of the Philippines’ leadership in integrating gender equality, disability, and social inclusion in the country’s NDC process. We believe that climate action is most effective when everyone has a voice." The consultations gathered participants from diverse backgrounds, ensuring gender balance and inclusive representation across priority groups. These included women’s organizations, civil society organizations, youth leaders, student organizations, persons with disability organizations, indigenous peoples, and older persons living in poverty. Through these dialogues, the Philippines continues to emphasize that inclusive climate action, grounded in the perspectives of marginalized and vulnerable groups, is essential in achieving a just and equitable transition toward a climate-resilient and sustainable future. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.

CCC Commissioner Rachel Anne S. Herrera, Quezon City Mayor Josefina Belmonte, Plan International Pilipinas Executive Director Pebbles Sanchez-Ogang, CARE Philippines Country Director Reiza S. Dejito, and fellow advocates for women’s and girls’ rights call for the empowerment of girls as leaders in climate resilience at the Girls Summit 2025.     MANILA, 11 November 2025 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) underscored the critical need to empower girls and young women as leaders in climate action. CCC Commissioner Rachel Anne Herrera served as a key panelist during the Girls Summit 2025 held in Quezon City. In the session, “Resilience in Crisis: Protecting and Empowering Girls,” she discussed the impact of climate change on women and girls and outlined the Commission’s gender-responsive initiatives. “Climate change does not affect everyone equally. It disproportionately impacts women and girls, exacerbating existing inequalities and threatening their livelihoods, health, and safety,” Herrera stated. “Our policies must integrate gender considerations at every step, from planning and financing to implementation, to ensure we are building a resilience that truly protects and empowers every girl.” She described how climate change acts as a “threat multiplier,” increasing risks of gender-based violence, disrupting education, and placing heavier burdens on girls. She highlighted the CCC’s comprehensive approach, which includes mandating the use of sex-disaggregated data in local climate plans and strengthening climate budgeting to track spending that benefits women and girls. This aligns with broader local government efforts, as emphasized by Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte. “As part of a larger effort to promote gender inclusivity, we are focused on our Gender and Development Framework, with interventions designed to address the full cycle of care, from education and health to social protection and recovery,” said Mayor Belmonte. Commissioner Herrera also called for greater youth involvement, urging girls to claim their seats in decision-making bodies, become advocates for citizen science and early warning systems, and lead community-based adaptation projects. “Women and girls are not just beneficiaries; they are leaders and often the first responders who knit communities together. Our job is to open the doors and fund the seats. We ask you to be in the room where plans are made, co-design solutions, and help us measure what matters,” she said. The event highlighted the intersecting challenges that girls face, a point reiterated by Plan International Pilipinas Executive Director Pebbles Sanchez-Ogang who emphasized that, “Every day, young women across the country are forced to navigate challenges that threaten their safety, silence their voices, and limit their potential.”  The Girls Summit 2025 was organized by Plan International Pilipinas, in partnership with the Quezon City Government and the Quezon City Gender and Development Council Office, in celebration of the International Day of the Girl Child. The event culminated in the handover of The Girls’ Agenda, a list of priority rights and calls to action presented to government and private sector leaders. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.

The Climate Change Commission (CCC), led by Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje, joined partners from Germany, the United Nations, government agencies, and non-government organizations at the 2nd Project Steering Committee Meeting of the TRANSCEND Project to review progress and align strategies for nature-positive resilience. MANILA, Philippines – The partnership between the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Government of Germany continues to drive transformative climate and biodiversity action through the Transformative Actions for Climate and Ecological Protection and Development (TRANSCEND) Project — a joint initiative that strengthens climate governance, empowers communities, and protects ecosystems. During the 2nd Project Steering Committee (PSC) Meeting, the Climate Change Commission (CCC) underscored the need to turn climate projects into lasting systems and institutional reforms that sustain impact beyond project cycles and empower communities to take climate action that endures. “The Philippines’ climate response must move beyond isolated pilot projects toward coherent systems that sustain impact beyond budget cycles,” said CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje, speaking before partners from the Government of Germany, the United Nations, other government agencies, and non-government organizations. “Our partnership must move beyond pilots. It must translate innovation into institutional practice, and good practice into national policy,” he added. Jointly implemented by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, the CCC, and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the TRANSCEND Project embodies the Philippines–Germany partnership’s shared commitment to climate and ecological transformation. It aims to strengthen the country’s capacity to integrate climate and biodiversity priorities into planning, investment, and policy — ensuring that climate action and ecosystem protection advance hand in hand. Borje highlighted the CCC’s initiatives to integrate climate resilience into regular government operations by strengthening policies and financing mechanisms that link plans, budgets, and outcomes. These include scaling up Local Climate Change Expenditure Tagging (LCCET) to improve transparency in public spending, accelerating the People’s Survival Fund (PSF) for community- and nature-based adaptation projects, and integrating climate criteria in procurement to make green and resilient practices standard across agencies. He noted that sustainable resilience depends on “systems that align, financing that rewards outcomes, and institutions that endure,” adding that these principles guide President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s administration in pursuing systemic, evidence-based, and inclusive climate governance. Running from 2025 to 2029, TRANSCEND aligns with national frameworks such as the National Adaptation Plan (NAP), Nationally Determined Contribution Implementation Plan (NDCIP), and the Philippine Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (PBSAP). The project seeks to institutionalize transformative, evidence-based actions that promote inclusive, nature-positive, and sustainable growth. DENR Undersecretary Analiza Rebuelta-Teh welcomed the project’s role in strengthening convergence between climate and biodiversity efforts. “This meeting allows us to assess milestones, address gaps, and ensure our actions advance both climate resilience and ecosystem protection,” she said. German Ambassador to the Philippines Dr. Andreas Michael Pfaffernoschke reaffirmed Germany’s support, emphasizing that climate change is a shared responsibility requiring collective resolve. “Our two countries will continue to work as strong and constructive partners in addressing one of the most pressing challenges of humankind,” he said. The ambassador added that the warming of the planet should not be viewed merely as a threat but as a challenge that calls for stronger commitment. He stressed that this should motivate nations to push harder toward ensuring a sustainable and livable planet for future generations. The 2nd PSC meeting reviewed project progress and ensured strategic alignment for the coming years, including monitoring and evaluation systems to measure tangible outcomes such as reduced risks, restored ecosystems, and improved access to sustainable services. Among those present were CCC Commissioner Rachel Anne S. Herrera, who facilitated discussions on some agenda items; Undersecretary Henry Yap Sr. of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD); GIZ Country Director Dr. Immanuel Gebhardt; and representatives from the DENR, DHSUD, Department of Transportation (DOTr), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and other partner agencies and organizations. Borje concluded that the long-term success of TRANSCEND depends on building coherence across policies, financing, and institutions, ensuring that the project contributes not only to immediate climate and biodiversity goals but also to lasting reforms in public governance. “If we do our work right — with discipline, courage, and constancy — TRANSCEND will not just transform cities; it will transform governance itself,” he said. Through the TRANSCEND partnership, the Philippines and Germany reaffirm their shared goal of strengthening resilience, accelerating adaptation, and promoting low-carbon and biodiversity-friendly development across the country. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming programs and partnerships, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.

CCC Vice Chair and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje calls on Filipino youth to lead climate action and help build a climate-resilient country in an event at the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Valenzuela on October  30, 2025.  Valenzuela City, Philippines – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) called on Filipino youth to transform awareness into meaningful action and redefine resilience as prevention, not repeated recovery from disasters. During the “Climate Action Now: Students for Resilience” event at the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Valenzuela (PLV), CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje, in his keynote address “The State of Climate Emergency: Science, Policy and Duty,” urged students to take an active role in shaping the country’s climate-resilient future through science, policy, and a shared sense of duty. “Resilience is not about how fast we rebuild—it’s about how less we need to,” Borje said. “It’s not about surviving the next storm, but preventing the next loss.” He emphasized that climate change impacts are already part of everyday life for many Filipinos, seen in flooding, extreme heat, and the spread of diseases that disrupt lives, livelihoods, and learning. “These are not statistics. These are our stories—your stories,” he said. Borje encouraged young Filipinos to redefine resilience by learning, preparing, and preventing together, breaking the recurring cycle of disaster, relief, and repair. He stressed that building true resilience begins with science, continues through policy, and is sustained by duty—values that young people can champion in their homes, schools, and communities. “Science tells us what must be done. Policy shows us how. But duty ensures it is done,” he said. “Your curiosity and your willingness to act already make you part of the solution. Truth, like science, saves lives.” Recognizing the influence of the digital generation, Borje reminded students to practice discernment amid misinformation and disinformation online. “In this era of algorithms and echo chambers, truth itself is a form of climate action,” he said. Borje cited numerous youth-led initiatives—from mangrove planting and coastal cleanups to local disaster preparedness programs—as proof that small, consistent acts of care and cooperation can create meaningful change. “Across the country, young people like you are proving that small actions can lead to big changes,” he said. “These actions remind us that we don’t need to be rich to make a difference. We just need to care, to act, and to keep learning.” He also reminded adults of their role in empowering the next generation. “To the adults here, our role is not to take the future from your hands, but to steady them as you hold it,” Borje said. “To provide structure, opportunity, and trust.” He ended by affirming the youth’s central role in the country’s climate-resilient future. “We are not powerless—we are purposeful. We are not waiting for the future; we are building it together.” The event was organized by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) in partnership with the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Valenzuela (PLV) and the Local Government of Valenzuela. It brought together students, teachers, and local leaders to strengthen climate awareness and inspire youth-led resilience initiatives across communities. The CCC recognized PIA for leading the initiative and reaffirmed its collaboration with the agency to further empower the youth and key sectors in advancing informed, science-based climate action. The “Climate Action Now: Students for Resilience” activity forms part of the CCC’s continuing effort to raise climate literacy and strengthen local resilience through education, collaboration, and community-driven climate action. The Climate Change Commission continues to work with academic institutions, local government units, and youth organizations nationwide to strengthen science-based, community-driven climate action. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.

The Climate Change Commission (CCC) Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje underscored resilience as a reform in his keynote address at the “The Resilience Agenda: a National Policy Dialogue on Disaster and Climate Resilience" held at the Hilton Manila, Pasay City. Manila, Philippines – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) underscored the need to shift from reactive to preventive, data-driven, and systems-based approaches to resilience during “The Resilience Agenda: A National Policy Dialogue on Disaster and Climate Resilience.” In his keynote address, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje emphasized that resilience in the Philippines must evolve beyond coping with disasters toward anticipating and preventing them. “Our resilience has not evolved in calm conditions. It has been shaped—sometimes painfully—by the disasters that tested our institutions and our resolve,” Borje said. “Each major event left lessons and, eventually, laws. But this pattern—of pain leading to policy—shows both our strength and our unfinished work. We have been excellent at responding after loss and damage. Now we must learn to legislate, plan, and act before it. Resilience must become anticipatory—preventive, data-driven, and sustained.” Borje stressed that this shift requires institutionalizing systems that plan and act before disasters strike, anchored on science, foresight, and accountability. He said that strengthening data systems, policy coherence, and inter-agency coordination is key to protecting lives, livelihoods, and development gains from the compounded impacts of climate change and disasters. Borje said that true resilience goes beyond recovery, emphasizing that it should be measured by how effectively the country can prevent loss, protect lives, and sustain progress amid climate and disaster risks. “The story of the Philippines has always been a story of resilience—tested by storms, strengthened by community, and sustained by faith in our people,” he said. “But resilience is not about how often we can rebuild. It is about how rarely we are destroyed.” He further emphasized that delivering resilience requires a shift “from reaction to reform, from rebuilding to readiness.” This, he noted, reflects the CCC’s commitment to strengthen data governance, science-based policymaking, and national–local convergence under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to ensure that climate and disaster risk management systems are coherent. Borje also highlighted ongoing national frameworks, including the National Adaptation Plan (NAP 2023–2050), the Philippine Development Plan (PDP 2023–2028), and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Plan (NDRRMP), as part of a unified approach linking climate science, governance, and community action. Through Accelerated Climate Action and Transformation for Local Communities (ACT Local), the CCC helps local governments translate data into evidence-based climate actions. Many, however, still face gaps in capacity, information, and financing. ACT Local must evolve into a sustained system of local climate governance.  The People’s Survival Fund opens wider funding opportunities for nature-based and community-driven adaptation projects, especially for LGUs most in need. However, gaps in approval processes, timelines, and accessibility persist. Addressing these will help ensure that climate finance reaches vulnerable communities faster and more effectively. Borje underscored that the commitment to improve climate governance remains a priority under the Marcos administration.  “Resilience cannot rest on one office or one administration. It must rest on one nation—guided by science, informed by data, and united in discipline,” Borje said. The conference, organized by the Agence Française de Développement (AFD), Expertise France, and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) through the Disaster Risk Reduction Enhancement at Local Level Technical Assistance (DRREAL-TA) project, gathered representatives from national and local governments, development partners, civil society organizations, and the academe to discuss strategies for strengthening coherence in the country’s resilience agenda. The CCC’s participation underscored its continuing role in steering the country’s climate policy and promoting coherence across sectors and levels of governance toward a climate-resilient Philippines. 

The Climate Change Commission (CCC) Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje underscores the need for transformative, science-based, and multisectoral climate action during the inaugural Climate Actors’ Forum and Exchange held at Novotel Manila, Quezon City. Manila, Philippines – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) emphasized the need for multisectoral and science-based collaboration to strengthen the country’s adaptation and action pathways at the inaugural Climate Actors’ Forum and Exchange. In his keynote message, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje highlighted the importance of integrating scientific knowledge with policy, governance, and local action to address growing climate risks in the Philippines. He underscored that advancing adaptation requires deliberate foresight, and that “to build right at first sight is to make resilience deliberate, not accidental, and the discipline of foresight that saves lives, livelihoods, and resources.” He added, “Because the measure of good governance is not how fast we rebuild, but how rarely we need to.” Anchored on the findings of the Philippine Climate Change Assessment Report Cycle 2 (PhilCCA C2), the forum brought together representatives from government, academe, civil society, and the private sector to discuss the latest research on climate science, impacts, and solutions. The CCC reaffirmed that the PhilCCA serves as a key reference for implementing the country’s National Adaptation Plan (NAP) 2023–2050 and Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC). “The PhilCCA tells us where we stand and what is at stake,” Borje said. He noted that the Philippines is warming faster than the global average, with sea levels rising at three times the global rate. He warned that without urgent and collective efforts, climate-related losses could reach ₱506 billion annually — equivalent to 7.6 percent of GDP by 2030 and 13.6 percent by 2040. Citing the guidance of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to strengthen science-based and evidence-informed climate action, the CCC called on all stakeholders to use the PhilCCA findings to guide local and sectoral strategies, bridge data gaps, and identify practical solutions for adaptation and mitigation. Borje also reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to ensure that the Philippines’ climate agenda remains grounded in science, transparency, and shared responsibility. “Let us open that window wider to let in science, collaboration, and accountability. Let us expand the space not only for discussion, but for decision and delivery,” Borje said. Organized by the Oscar M. Lopez Center, the Climate Actors’ Forum and Exchange also featured plenary discussions by the PhilCCA working groups, parallel sessions on sectoral adaptation, and an expo showcasing climate innovations and partnerships.

Commissioner Albert Dela Cruz, Sr., delivers a message of commitment during the Regional Youth Adaptation Dialogue: Strengthening Youth Engagement for Climate Resilience in Asia-Pacific. BANGKOK, THAILAND — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) shared the Philippines' steadfast efforts to strengthen climate change adaptation at the Asia-Pacific Climate Change Adaptation Forum (APAN Forum) 2025, held from 29 September to 3 October at the United Nations Conference Center in Bangkok. The forum opened with the Peer Learning Cohort Event (PLCE) on Strengthening Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning `(MEL) Systems in National Adaptation Plan (NAP) Processes, co-organized by the NAP Global Network (NAP GN) and the Government of Thailand. The two-day workshop gathered representatives from Thailand, Bhutan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Timor-Leste, Tonga, and Vietnam to deepen collective learning on MEL systems for adaptation planning. The cohort provided a collaborative platform for countries to share experiences, identify challenges, and explore opportunities to strengthen national MEL systems that support NAP processes. Discussions focused on governance, financing, indicators, and institutional arrangements needed for effective adaptation tracking and reporting. As part of the continuing cohort activities, the NAP GN hosted a parallel session titled “From Data to Decisions: Strengthening MEL for NAP Processes for Transformational Adaptation,” where CCC presented the Philippines’ experience in developing the adaptation chapter of its First Biennial Transparency Report (BTR). The CCC underscored the Philippines’ strong national ownership and commitment to transparency, emphasizing that while adaptation reporting in the BTR is voluntary, it was intentionally included since adaptation remains central to the country’s climate strategy. The Commission also shared key lessons from the process, including the importance of early coordination, capacity building, and leveraging existing systems to ensure data consistency and institutional alignment. The CCC stressed that international reporting should serve not merely as a compliance exercise but as a transformational enabler that promotes transparency, accountability, and evidence-based policymaking. "The Philippines is building a robust and transparent system where international reporting directly informs and empowers local action. Our participation in forums like APAN is crucial for integrating these global lessons into our national framework, ensuring our NAP remains a dynamic and effective blueprint for resilience," said CCC Vice Chair and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje. During the Regional Youth Adaptation Dialogue: Strengthening Youth Engagement for Climate Resilience in Asia-Pacific, CCC Commissioner Albert Dela Cruz joined as a speaker alongside hosts from the UNFCCC RCC Asia Pacific, Youth Empowerment in Climate Action Platform (YECAP), UNDP Bangkok Regional Hub, UN Women, and ChildFund International. Commissioner Dela Cruz highlighted the vital role of youth in national and local climate governance through mechanisms such as the Sangguniang Kabataan, underscoring the power of youth-led innovation and advocacy in advancing climate adaptation. He called on young leaders to “influence decision-makers, challenge unsustainable practices, and drive systemic change”. In the forum’s Plenary Session on “Interplay of Enablers,” Commissioner Dela Cruz further discussed the Philippines’ whole-of-government approach to implementing its National Adaptation Plan (NAP), which was developed through an inclusive process involving youth, women, and Indigenous Peoples. He emphasized the need to laymanize climate language so that adaptation planning becomes understandable and actionable at the household and community levels. “Climate change is not only a national or global issue—it is a personal and family concern affecting lives, livelihoods, and resources,” he said. The CCC reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to transformational adaptation through robust monitoring and evaluation, inclusive policymaking, and active regional collaboration. By exchanging experiences with neighboring countries, the CCC aims to strengthen the implementation of the Philippines’ NAP 2023-2050 as a living document that supports adaptive communities and scalable climate actions nationwide. The week-long APAN Forum is the largest gathering of adaptation practitioners in the Asia-Pacific region, providing a platform for governments, development partners, civil society, and research institutions to exchange knowledge and collaborate on climate adaptation strategies. With the theme “Resilience for All: Catalyzing Transformational Adaptation,” the 9th APAN Forum brought together over 700 participants from more than 40 countries, including representatives from government agencies, United Nations bodies, multilateral organizations, academia, youth networks, and civil society. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.

The Climate Change Commission, led by Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje, participated in a high-level discussion on blended finance for adaptation projects in the Philippines. MANILA, Philippines – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) emphasized the importance of broad stakeholder involvement in blended climate finance for adaptation projects during a high-level roundtable discussion at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). The CCC recognized the need for the country’s enhanced adaptation practices, being one of the most at-risk nations to disasters. This makes adaptation the top priority of the government’s climate agenda. Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje of the CCC underscored the importance of convening the full spectrum of stakeholders to plan and implement adaptation projects. “This discussion is vital toward effective climate finance for adaptation. As the crisis worsens and affects our communities, we need to address it through a whole-of-society approach, involving every sector in our strategy for blended finance,” said Borje. Borje highlighted the need to institutionalize a regular dialogue mechanism for climate finance stakeholders to strengthen coordination and sustain engagement. He also stressed the inclusion of the finance sector in mobilizing resources for the National Adaptation Plan (NAP), particularly in developing its financing strategy and in updating the plan to reflect emerging priorities and needs. The NAP was developed under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., aligned with his vision for a climate-smart and climate-resilient Philippines. Borje emphasized that institutionalizing coordination and involvement of broad stakeholders allows for the integration of diverse perspectives and collaborative approaches toward effective climate finance. The roundtable discussion was attended by high-level representatives from government, financial institutions, loan and grant providers, private enterprises, and other funders and investors in a focused multi-stakeholder discussion. It aimed to identify concrete next steps to advance the blended finance ecosystem in the Philippines. This formed part of a two-day forum on blended climate finance organized by the BSP, which aimed to identify concrete next steps to strengthen the country’s blended finance ecosystem. The CCC recognized BSP's initiative in convening this multi-sectoral platform to advance collaboration on climate finance for adaptation, while also strengthening coordination mechanisms to align efforts in mobilizing climate finance. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.

The Climate Change Commission (CCC) presents its flagship programs and initiatives in advancing climate action during a press conference at the Philippine Information Agency (PIA). MANILA, 21 October 2025 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) detailed its mandate and initiatives to mainstream climate action across all sectors, emphasizing a whole-of-society approach grounded on science and data, during a press conference at the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) on October 16, 2025. CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje outlined the country's vulnerabilities and the robust policy framework now in place to address them. He stressed that addressing the climate crisis is a shared responsibility. “Our mandate is clear: to coordinate, monitor, and evaluate government programs to ensure we are building a nation resilient to climate impacts. But this is not the work of the CCC alone. It requires the concerted effort of every sector of society,” said Borje. “There is hope, but our hope should be firmly grounded on science-based and data-driven policy recommendations,” he added. A central focus of the discussion was the mainstreaming of climate action into national and local development planning. Borje presented the National Adaptation Plan (NAP), developed under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. as the country's foundational roadmap for building adaptive capacity. He also highlighted the Nationally Determined Contribution Implementation Plan (NDCIP), which charts the course for a 75% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. A key next step for both plans is localization, ensuring strategies are tailored to the specific needs of local government units (LGUs) and sectors. The press conference revealed significant progress at the local level, with a 90.96% submission rate for Local Climate Change Action Plans (LCCAPs) from LGUs nationwide. "What we want is not just the submission of the LCCAP. What we need is for these LCCAPs to be implemented. The true measure of our success is the translation of these plans into more climate-resilient communities," Borje clarified. Borje underscored that partnerships are crucial for effective climate action, highlighting several key initiatives. He reported that the People’s Survival Fund (PSF) has committed over PHP1.4 billion to support adaptation projects in 24 LGUs. For the first time in the fund's history, the initial PHP 1 billion allocation was fully committed and subsequently replenished in 2025. "The PSF Board is exploring ways to democratize access to the fund," Borje shared, noting the prioritization of the most climate-vulnerable areas. Additionally, collaboration with the Department of Budget and Management on Climate Change Expenditure Tagging (CCET) ensures climate actions are prioritized in national budgets. Borje also highlighted the Philippines' active role in global climate finance, including its historic selection to host the Board of the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage. "This will further strengthen the country’s role in global climate finance," Borje said. The press conference also served as a platform to invite the public and stakeholders to participate in the upcoming Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness Week on November 19-25, 2025 to reinforce climate awareness and collective action for climate resilience. Borje also called for unity and disciplined action. "Every generation always has its challenges, and climate change is the governance challenge of our generation. We have to work together because we are the answer that our country needs." The event aimed to strengthen engagement with media and the public, ensure clear communication of the nation's climate initiatives, and foster broader participation in building a climate-resilient future. The press conference was streamed live by PIA and attended by representatives from various government and private media outlets. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.

The Climate Change Commission (CCC) collaborates with civil society organizations and the private sector during the 2nd Multistakeholder Consultation for 2025 to strengthen the Philippines' position for the upcoming COP30 climate talks in November. MANILA, 21 October 2025 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) brought together a diverse group of civil society organizations, private sector representatives, and government agencies for a consultation aimed at consolidating a strong, unified, and inclusive Philippine position for the upcoming 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)  in Belém, Brazil. The event featured a presentation on the outcomes of the 62nd session of the UNFCCC Subsidiary Bodies (SB62), setting the stage for focused discussions. Lead government agencies, including the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Energy, Department of Finance, Department of Labor and Employment, and Department of Economy, Planning, and Development, delivered briefings on the COP30 outlook across six key priority workstreams: Adaptation; Mitigation & Article 6; Loss and Damage; Climate Finance; Just Transition & Technology; and Transparency. Insights and recommendations gathered will inform the country's national positions and negotiation strategies for COP30. Reflecting on the journey of climate action in the Philippines, the CCC acknowledged the crucial role of civil society and community-based organizations in translating climate policies into tangible benefits for the people, particularly the most vulnerable. "This consultation reaffirms that we can only confront the climate crisis effectively through partnership grounded in trust, transparency, and shared responsibility. We are making sure that citizen participation becomes a foundation of this type of engagement," CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje said, underscoring that this event is part of a continuous effort to develop robust and strong consultative mechanism. “We must work together, across all sectors, institutions, and communities, to close coordination gaps and ensure that every voice, particularly those of the most vulnerable, is meaningfully represented." "Moving further ahead, there are other stakeholders who would like to be involved also. We will endeavor to make it a more substantial participation from our CSO partners and also from the business and the academe," he added. The consultation was attended by representatives from various civil society organizations, including Aksyon Klima Pilipinas; Center for Energy Ecology, and Development; Family Planning/Population, Health, and Environment Network; Forest Foundation Philippines; Health Care Without Harm; Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities; Kabataang Resilient Network; Klima Center - Manila Observatory; Living Laudato Si Philippines; National Resilience Council; NGOs for Fisheries Reform; Oxfam Pilipinas; Parabukas; WWF Philippines; UNICEF; Net Zero Carbon Alliance; Reboot Philippines; Rare Inc.; and Save the Children. Representatives from the private sector include Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Ayala Corporation, First Philippine Holdings, and Energy Development Corporation. The CCC continues to strengthen its collaboration with non-state actors, moving beyond one-time consultations towards sustained, institutionalized partnership for continuous dialogue and joint climate action. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.