The Climate Change Commission joins a multi-stakeholder workshop to promote women at the center of climate action and climate-resilient livelihoods. Pasig City – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) emphasized the integration of gender in climate action and in programs to strengthen the resilience of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) against the threat of climate change during a recent workshop and networking event. The discussions focused on the intersection of gender and climate change, particularly on equipping women-led enterprises with the capacity to adapt to climate challenges. CCC Commissioner Rachel Anne S. Herrera highlighted the Nationally Determined Contribution Gender Action Plan (NDC GAP) as a framework to support gender-responsive and inclusive approaches in achieving the country’s NDC targets—which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 75% by 2030. She emphasized that the agricultural, waste, industry, transport, and energy sectors are traditionally considered male-dominated in terms of labor composition especially for those in senior-level management, yet when given the opportunity, women can thrive not just as skilled workers but as industry leaders. Commissioner Herrera also cited the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) as a guide for achieving climate-resilient businesses. “With livelihoods and infrastructure as key focus areas of NAP, MSMEs, which comprise 99% of businesses in the Philippines, need to be equipped with the capacity to invest in climate-resilient infrastructure, technology, and adaptation measures,” Herrera mentioned. She outlined two key initiatives, which will be supported under the TRANSCEND Project being implemented by the CCC and DENR, with support from the German Government, to help MSMEs become climate-smart and resilient. “The development of a Climate-Smart Industry Roadmap will guide MSMEs in enhancing energy efficiency and climate resilience,” she said. “Another key initiative is providing direct support to small-scale manufacturing and food processing enterprises to build their capacity for energy-efficient operations, alongside policy support at the national level,” Herrera added. Undersecretary Blesila Lantayona of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Regional Operations Group recognized women as powerful agents of change, capable of building sustainable communities. "I stand with you to affirm the Department of Trade and Industry’s unwavering dedication to this cause, alongside the broader efforts of the Philippines to champion climate resilience," she added. Ms. Rhoda Castro-Caliwara, President of the Women’s Business Council Philippines, Inc. (WomenBizPH), emphasized that climate change directly impacts the business sector. She noted that extreme weather events, such as scorching heat, floods, and earthquakes, increase costs and disrupt operations. Caliwara also pointed out that the event provided an opportunity for knowledge-sharing and best practices to promote sustainability, empower women, and advance multi-stakeholder collaboration. Meanwhile, Secretary Robert E.A. Borje, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director, highlighted the broader impact of such networking events. “Strengthening partnerships creates opportunities to put women at the center of climate action. This not only empowers women but also fosters a unified and collaborative approach to building a climate-resilient business sector,” he stated. Held under the theme "Kababaihan, Kalikasan, Kabuhayan – Building Climate-Resilient Livelihoods for Women," the event was led by the Department of Trade and Industry, WomenBizPH, and UN Women. It was supported by the governments of New Zealand, Germany, Sweden, and Switzerland through the global EmPower Program of UN Women. It brought together business and industry, national government agencies, and civil society organizations advocating for gender equality, ecological sustainability, and enterprise development. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.
Climate Change Commission (CCC) Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje presents a Plaque of Appreciation to GMA Integrated News for its outstanding commitment to climate reporting. Joining him are Queenie Santos-Dimapawi, Assistant Vice President and Deputy Head for Integrated News Operation; Christina Pascual, Senior Manager for News Audio Visual; John Manalastas, Senior AVP & Deputy Head for Digital News Operations & Editor-in-Chief; John Ray Arrabe, Senior AVP & Cluster Head, News Programs; and Jhoanna “Lou” Albano, Supervising Editor for Lifestyle at GMA News Online. The Climate Change Commission (CCC) and GMA Integrated News (GMA-IN) have reinforced their commitment to climate storytelling in a collaborative meeting focused on expanding media engagement and amplifying climate action initiatives. During the meeting, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje presented a Plaque of Appreciation to GMA-IN in recognition of its outstanding contributions to climate reporting. The recognition highlights the GMA-IN’s impactful programs such as “Banta ng Nagbabagong Klima,” which have played a crucial role in informing the public about climate change. GMA-IN, one of the longest-running news organizations in the Philippines, has been at the forefront of climate journalism, leveraging its TV, digital, radio, and regional platforms to deliver in-depth and impactful stories. The meeting served as a platform to explore potential collaborations, including creating dedicated spaces for climate information exchange, hosting discussions on critical but underreported issues, and launching joint initiatives to raise awareness and drive action. “We share a common mission to address the challenges of climate change through informed storytelling and impactful journalism,” Borje said. “GMA Integrated News has consistently demonstrated excellence in climate reporting, ensuring that climate information reaches a wider audience and inspires action.” As part of its broader engagement strategy, the CCC is strengthening collaboration with journalists through initiatives such as media interface sessions and training programs. These efforts aim to enhance climate reporting, encourage informed public discourse, and mainstream climate action in news coverage. Queenie Santos-Dimapawi, Assistant Vice President and Deputy Head for Integrated News Operations, stated, “We believe awareness is the first step towards action. We have made climate change reporting a core part of our mission. Through this, we aim to turn information into inspiration and inspire Filipinos into action.” Discussions also delved on potential collaborations in producing compelling climate stories that highlight the realities of climate change and resilience efforts. Additionally, the CCC is exploring innovative platforms and strategic partnerships to expand the reach of its advocacy and ensure that climate awareness translates into concrete action at all levels of society. “High-quality journalism is essential in driving climate awareness and accountability,” Borje emphasized. “GMA Integrated News has set a high standard in climate reporting, producing stories that not only inform but also empower communities to take action. Our partnership is a powerful step toward a more climate-informed and resilient Philippines” Through strengthened partnership with stakeholders including the media, the CCC is committed to their mission to elevate the conversation on climate change, drive public engagement, and inspire meaningful action toward a more resilient and sustainable future.
MANILA, Philippines – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) joined the global observance of Earth Hour last night, March 22, emphasizing the importance of water security in the face of climate change. This year’s Earth Hour, which coincides with World Water Day, highlights the critical link between energy conservation and water security. Switching off lights for an hour serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need for stronger conservation efforts. The Philippines continues to face significant challenges in water access. According to the Department of Health (DOH), 2.87 million households (11.26%) had no access to basic water supply in 2022, while 4.17 million households (16.36%) had no basic sanitation facilities. Secretary Robert E.A. Borje, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director, stressed the critical role of water in human survival and economic stability. “At the heart of this year's Earth Hour is water security. Water is a fundamental human survival and a basic human right. It is also vital to the Philippine economy, particularly in major industries such as agriculture, tourism, and semiconductors,” said Secretary Borje. According to the World Bank, 42 percent of the country’s jobs are in sectors that use water intensively. He also encouraged the public to actively participate in Earth Hour, not just by switching off lights but by contributing to ongoing efforts toward conservation and climate resilience. “This movement does not end here, but rather serves as a reminder for us to take daily steps to promote conservation and build resilience,” Secretary Borje said. He also cited the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) as a key strategy for strengthening conservation efforts, with a particular focus on innovative climate adaptation measures. The NAP identifies water resources as one of the eight key sectors crucial for climate adaptation, underscoring the need for comprehensive and sustainable water management strategies. With the theme “Switch Off and Secure Water for All,” this year’s Earth Hour highlights the importance of water and energy conservation for global action to ensure sustainable access for all. 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 reaffirms the Philippines' commitment to updating its NDC alongside high-level representatives from government, private sector, civil society, and development partners at the 5th UK-Philippines Climate Change and Environment Dialogue. Photo courtesy of the DENR Manila, Philippines – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) led discussions on raising the ambition of the Philippines’ Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) toward net zero at the 5th UK-Philippines Climate Change and Environment Dialogue held on March 12, 2025. The event reinforced both countries’ commitment to urgent climate action, adaptation and resilience, and cooperation for sustainable development. It brought together government agencies, private sector leaders, civil society organizations, and development partners to enhance collaboration ahead of the 30th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change. The dialogue focused on key areas of cooperation, including climate science and innovation, localization and resilience, and mobilizing climate investments. The discussions aim to shape future partnerships between the UK and the Philippines, particularly in the blue economy, and on climate finance and critical minerals—all crucial sectors for the country’s transformation towards low carbon and climate resilient development. CCC Commissioner Rachel Anne S. Herrera reaffirmed the Philippines' commitment to updating its NDC through a whole-of-nation approach, aligning national priorities with global climate goals. Speaking at a session on raising NDC ambition toward net zero, she emphasized the need for technical and financial support to accelerate implementation of measures and technologies that will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the energy, transport, agriculture, industry, waste, and forestry and land use sectors, and strengthen the country’s adaptation efforts. She highlighted the structured process of updating NDC 3.0, emphasizing inclusivity, collaboration, and the role of development partners in mobilizing technical and funding support. She also underscored the importance of setting ambitious yet realistic climate targets that balance economic growth, energy security, and resilience-building efforts. “Climate resilience and economic development must go hand in hand. Our NDC update ensures we prioritize industrial potential and energy security while striving for a climate-resilient future,” Herrera said. “This is why enhanced support from developed countries is essential for maximizing our contributions to global climate efforts.” British Ambassador to the Philippines Laure Beaufils opened the event by highlighting the importance of sustained collaboration between the UK and the Philippines in addressing climate challenges. She emphasized the consistency of the dialogue’s role as a platform to advance shared climate goals. “This is a time to celebrate all that we’ve achieved together. Climate action has been a personal priority for the President and is at the heart of our foreign policy—setting the agenda and mechanisms for transparency and accountability,” Ambassador Beaufils stated. Meanwhile, Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga, Official Representative of the President to the Climate Change Commission and Secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, reinforced this message in her opening remarks, emphasizing that climate resilience is both a shared aspiration and an imperative. "The Philippines and the UK share a responsibility as large ocean nations. Together, we are building a roadmap to resilience—aligning key priorities, setting measurable outcomes, and ensuring coordinated leadership in this critical race against climate change," she said. Secretary Robert E.A. Borje, Vice Chairperson and Executive Director of the Climate Change Commission, underscored the importance of global cooperation in addressing the climate crisis. "Strong bilateral partnerships are a bedrock of meaningful climate action. This dialogue marks an important milestone in reinforcing our shared goals for mitigation, adaptation, and ecological action. Working together will unlock new opportunities towards our goal of becoming a low-carbon, resilient country," Borje said. Agreements for collaboration include the UK’s support and promotion of the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) among financial institutions. The UK will play a key role in mobilizing capital through targeted funds and strategically aligning its programs with the Philippines’ priority initiatives. Both sides also committed to find ways to strengthen high-impact public-private partnerships, climate-related scholarships, joint site visits, funding access, education programs, and capacity-building initiatives. The Climate Change Commission remains at the forefront of these efforts, ensuring that national policies and international commitments translate into tangible actions for resilience and sustainability.
The Climate Change Commission joins the stakeholders meeting organized by the Municipality of Lake Sebu, South Cotabato, looking at opportunities to support climate efforts of the local government unit. LAKE SEBU, SOUTH COTABATO - The Climate Change Commission (CCC) has emphasized the importance of science-based, data-driven preservation and conservation efforts in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato, as part of a key integrated, long-term strategy to build climate resilience in the community. Lake Sebu, a designated protected area covering 102,350 hectares, is home to three major lakes: Lake Sebu, Lake Seloton, and Lake Lahit. These bodies of water are vital for the local economy, tourism industry and ecological stability of the region. During a recent stakeholder meeting organized by the Local Government of Lake Sebu under Mayor Remie Mann Unggol, the municipality’s potential for growth and development, natural beauty and cultural richness were discussed while the urgent ecological concerns and impacts of climate change were highlighted. Despite its economic potential, Vice Mayor Liezel Tupas-Isuga said Lake Sebu faces critical ecological threats such as fish kills, deforestation, siltation, overcrowded fish cages, poor waste management, and climate-related vulnerabilities. These challenges underscore the need for immediate and long-term efforts to significantly lower climate risks. The event gathered key partners, including representatives from the academe, the local government unit (LGUs), and ecologists to develop a comprehensive conservation and protection plan with a climate change lens. While discussions focused on ecotourism and the carrying capacity of tourism destinations, climate-proofing Lake Sebu against ecological threats, and resilience-based rehabilitation of its coastal and riparian habitats became an area of overarching focus. Secretary Robert E.A. Borje, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director, acknowledged the concerns of Lake Sebu officials and reiterated the importance of data-based, science-driven approach as part of a key integrated, long-term strategy to build climate resilience. “Climate resilience can be seen as both an object and instrument of policy, and this approach can help further bolster community efforts to preserve and conserve Lake Sebu,” Borje stated. In this regard, he also assured that the CCC would provide technical assistance and capacity-building support to help LGUs enhance their local climate change adaptation plans, as well as improving capabilities to access climate funding. Meanwhile, Ms. Lenly Gula, a writer and advocate for cultural work, stressed the need to integrate climate action into social media platforms. “We need to mobilize and maximize social media for call-to-action campaigns, particularly in promoting care for our ecosystems. Creating one- to two-minute reel content backed by scientific knowledge and clear calls to action can help raise awareness and inspire action for Lake Sebu,” she stated. The CCC remains committed to collaborate with various stakeholders to further mainstream climate resilience and conservation efforts in Lake Sebu and beyond. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.
