The House of Representatives and the Senate approve the FY2025 budget of the Climate Change Commission and other agencies. (Photos courtesy of Commissioner Albert Dela Cruz and Senate) MANILA, 19 November 2024 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) has lauded the Senate and the House of Representatives’ approval of the agency’s proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2025 amounting to P170,153,000. The budget will support the implementation of the CCC’s key initiatives, such as the localization of the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) and the updating of the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), all geared toward enhancing climate resilience across the country. The funding will also bolster the Commission’s capacity-building programs as well as to facilitate inter-agency coordination and multi-sectoral collaboration in line with its mandate. The CCC expressed appreciation to Senator Imee Marcos and Representative Angelica Natasha Co, who championed the Commission’s budget in their respective chambers. "This budget allows the Commission to advance its work on resilience-building, climate negotiations, and the full implementation of the NAP and NDC. We are especially grateful for the continued support from Representative Angelica Natasha Co, Senator Imee Marcos and Senator Loren Legarda, who have been instrumental in pushing forward these initiatives," CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert Borje said. Senator Imee Marcos, the budget sponsor in the Senate, and Senate Minority Floor Leader Koko Pimentel, highlighted the importance of improving processes of the People’s Survival Fund (PSF), which is crucial for supporting climate resilience projects at the local level. As the member of the PSF Board, the CCC conducts technical reviews of proposals. Thirteen (13) PSF project proposals amounting to PhP 1.3 Billion were approved by the PSF Board. “One best example of an LGU recipient of a grant under the People's Survival Fund, with completed projects, is represented by San Francisco in Camotes Island in Cebu, which is obviously a low income municipality, but has managed to build an ecological based farming model, which is now being replicated elsewhere,” Marcos said. "That's why we really need to support this Commission, budget wise," Pimentel said. Additionally, the Senators expressed support for the CCC’s efforts in climate negotiations, reinforcing the importance of global cooperation as the Philippines navigates critical international climate talks. The budget approval aligns with the priorities set by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., who has consistently called for accelerated climate action and resilience building. The CCC remains dedicated to lead national climate change initiatives and ensure the full implementation of the Republic Act 9729 or the Climate Change Act and related policies. The CCC’s 2025 budget marks a significant step forward in the country’s commitment to climate action, and reinforces the Philippines' efforts to meet global climate goals and protect vulnerable sectors. “We will strengthen efforts to safeguard our communities, protect livelihoods, and enhance our adaptive capacities. This is crucial as we continue to experience the devastating impacts of climate change, including stronger typhoons, rising sea levels, and prolonged droughts,” Borje stated. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.
The Climate Change Commission highlights the crucial role of the business sector to address climate change during the Startup Week 2024 conference in Taguig City. MANILA - The Climate Change Commission (CCC) underscored the importance of a multistakeholder approach in digitalization and sustainable practices for startups to address global climate challenges during the Startup Week 2024 conference. Discussions focused on climate-induced impacts, sustainable business practices, and digital innovations that can make industries become more adaptive to climate realities. Experts from various sectors highlighted the need for sustainable innovation to cultivate a resilient economy. The CCC recognizes climate change as a global governance challenge that affects lives, livelihoods, and our future. It calls for a comprehensive strategy to build climate resilience and promote sustainability in the business sector. Assistant Secretary Romell Antonio Cuenca, CCC Deputy Executive Director, urged the business sector to contribute more to address global climate challenges, and emphasized the CCC’s efforts in mainstreaming science-based policies and making climate data accessible at the local level. "Our collective actions, no matter how small, can create meaningful change. Through partnerships with the private sector and other stakeholders, we aim to foster data-informed climate solutions," he stated. Gillian Santos, CEO and co-founder of Anihan Technologies, emphasized the importance of a whole-of-society approach. “Implementing sustainable practices is crucial, but so is a collective effort. Whether through high-tech solutions or simple innovations, coordinated action is key,” she said. Priya Thachadi, Co-founder and CEO of Villgro Philippines, stressed the urgency of climate finance. “We must prioritize climate finance. Timely investments are essential to address climate challenges,” she remarked. Meanwhile, Secretary Robert E.A. Borje, Vice Chairperson and Executive Director of CCC, highlighted the significant role of the business sector in climate action. “This sector has immense potential to drive transformative change by investing in sustainable practices. May this conference inspire all entrepreneurs, whether startups or seasoned, to commit to climate action,” he mentioned. The five-day event, themed “Isa para sa Bayan: Igniting Filipino Innovation,” took place from 11-15 November 2024, in Taguig, gathering key business players from Southeast Asia. The CCC continues to provide technical assistance and collaborate with stakeholders to empower communities and industries, equipping them with resources and knowledge to build resilience for a climate-ready 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, under the leadership of Secretary Robert E.A. Borje, led the consultation dialogue with civil society organizations in preparation for the upcoming 29th Conference of the Parties in Azerbaijan. The CCC also met with the media and other stakeholders as a prelude to the CCC Week. MANILA, 11 November 2024 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) met with civil society organizations (CSOs) in a consultation dialogue to strengthen the Philippines’ stance ahead of the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. This collaboration strengthens the country’s strategy for global climate negotiations and aligns efforts to build climate resilience at the national level. The consultation focused on key climate workstreams, including Mitigation (Article 6), Adaptation, Global Stocktake, Climate Finance, and Just Transition. These areas are central to the Philippines’ participation in COP29, scheduled from 11 to 22 November 2024, in Baku, Azerbaijan. CSOs such as Aksyon Klima, Oxfam, Reboot PH, Non-Timber Forest Products – Exchange Programme, Center for Energy, Ecology, and Development, Asian Research Institute for Environmental Law, Ecowaste, Miriam College ESI, and Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, played a pivotal role in shaping positions for the Philippine Delegation (PhilDel) to COP29. Additionally, other key partners such as Save the Children Philippines, Manila Observatory, Center for Renewable Energy and Sustainable Technology, Parabukas, Ibon International, and Move as One also joined the dialogue. Secretary Robert E.A. Borje, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director, emphasized the importance of inclusivity in these efforts. “Our goal is to ensure that every voice—especially from the most vulnerable communities—is represented and heard," he stated. To further discuss the Philippines’ participation in COP29, key developments in national climate action as well as the observance of the 17th Annual Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness Week on 19 to 25 November 2024, the CCC held a separate media interface. This event covered key topics such as the localization of the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) and the need for a unified approach to build climate resilience. The UN Women, a development partner of the CCC for the Climate Consciousness Week, underscored the importance of integrating gender perspectives in climate policies. "It's essential to integrate gender into climate initiatives to raise widespread understanding and drive inclusive action," Jonas Gregory Perez, UN Women National Program Officer, said. He also pointed out the disproportionate impact of climate change on women and children. “Four out of five people displaced by the impacts of climate change are women and girls. And during extreme weather disasters, they are 14 times more likely to die than men, mostly due to limited access to information, limited resources, decision-making, and mobility.” The CCC, along with development partners, CSOs and media partners, aims to harness collective expertise to ensure robust climate action. At COP29, the Philippines remains committed to advance climate resilience and represent its most vulnerable communities. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.
The Climate Change Commission participated in a Guinness World Record attempt for the most people planting bamboo simultaneously, held in Villaba, Leyte. VILLABA, Leyte – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) underscored bamboo's crucial role as a carbon sink to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote livelihoods during the bamboo planting event titled “Kawayanihan: A Circular Economy Movement” held in Villaba, Leyte. CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje emphasized the need to enhance ecosystems to combat climate-induced disasters, pointing out that deforestation significantly exacerbates climate impacts. Bamboo, in particular, absorbs and stores more carbon dioxide and releases more oxygen than most terrestrial trees. Its deep-rooted structure strengthens riverbanks and stabilizes slopes, and prevents flooding and landslides which are crucial for enhancing climate resilience. “The giant bamboo provides multiple benefits, making it essential to protect this species and promote its cultivation to maximize its positive impact on our ecosystems. This will enhance our biodiversity which will contribute to climate-resilient communities,“ Borje stated. Leyte 3rd District Representative Anna Victoria Veloso-Tuazon highlighted the pivotal role of bamboo, stating, "This green resource plays a vital role in both our ecosystem and livelihoods, promoting environmental sustainability while it creates livelihood opportunities for local communities." Bukidnon 1st Representative Jose Manuel F. Alba, who led the simultaneous Bukidnon segment of the Kawayanihan, noted that the event presents a significant opportunity for sustainable development through bamboo cultivation. "By promoting bamboo growing, we support local farmers while also tackling reforestation efforts. Given its fast growth rate, bamboo is a valuable ally to combat climate change," he emphasized. Alba also mentioned that this movement is a strong representation of collective action, which is essential in climate efforts to achieve a resilient community. "By uniting our efforts, we can empower individuals and communities to take meaningful steps toward sustainability and environmental stewardship." Meanwhile, Shiela Lantaca, representative from the Department of Labor and Employment, also expressed her support for the initiative. "Our department fully supports this action as it creates potential livelihoods, particularly with the inclusion of green jobs," she stated. Engr. Winston N. Solite, Officer-in-Charge of the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office in Leyte, emphasized the significance of the initiative. "This tree planting helps reduce the impacts of global warming, as bamboo serves as an effective carbon sink,” he stated. Approximately 4,500 planters across 19 locations in Mindanao and Leyte simultaneously planted 20,000 bamboo for the Guinness World Record attempt, which also symbolizes the strength of collective climate action at the grassroots level. According to Romela Ratilla, DOST Regional X Director, the bamboos were geotagged to monitor their growth as they are potential sources of raw materials for various high-value products. The CCC remains committed to working with stakeholders and development partners to pursue policies and programs that promote the bamboo industry and other sustainable climate strategies. “Bamboo has long been part of our cultural heritage and rural livelihoods. Through initiatives like this, we preserve that rich heritage while harnessing its potential to build a greener economy,” Borje said. “This initiative demonstrates the power of individuals taking immediate climate action. Let this moment remind us that addressing the climate crisis requires the participation of every citizen, community, and sector,” he added, urging the public to support bamboo and other sustainable solutions that help reduce carbon footprints. Led by the Department of Science and Technology, the Office of Representative Anna Victoria Veloso-Tuazon and the Office of Representative Jose Manuel Alba, the event was attended by local government officials and partners from various regions for a Guinness World Record attempt for the most people planting bamboo simultaneously. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.
CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje at the IOM UN Migration's Regional Study Group Session that focuses on the ongoing development in the localization of NAP in BARMM. COTABATO, Philippines — As part of efforts to strengthen climate resilience across the Philippines, the Climate Change Commission (CCC) shared key updates on the implementation of the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) during a recent Study Group Session organized by the United Nations International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Cotabato City. The Philippines’ NAP, a key document for long-term climate adaptation planning, was developed under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. The session focused on localizing the NAP in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and emphasized the region’s unique challenges and opportunities in integrating climate adaptation strategies into local policies and development plans. Recognizing BARMM’s distinct socio-political landscape and heightened exposure to climate hazards, the CCC emphasized the importance of embedding the NAP into BARMM’s regional development framework. These efforts include conducting risk assessments tailored to the region's distinct geographical, socio-economic and political characteristics. “We are committed to support BARMM in translating national adaptation strategies into localized programs and projects that cater to the specific needs of our communities,” said CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje. To further align national climate policies with local action, the CCC assists BARMM’s local government units (LGUs) in the development of their Local Climate Change Action Plans (LCCAPs), which serve as critical tools to identify and implement climate adaptation and resilience measures. Currently, 62.4% of BARMM’s LGUs have submitted their LCCAPs. The CCC aims for 100% submission by 2025 and focuses on enhancing the capacities of the remaining 37.6% LGUs through technical support and capacity-building initiatives. To ensure efficient allocation of financial resources for climate adaptation and mitigation, the CCC introduced Climate Change Expenditure Tagging (CCET) system to drive transparency in tracking climate investments and promote accountability in climate action. In BARMM, 42 out of 125 BARMM LGUs have submitted their Annual Investment Plans (AIPs) and Quality Assurance Reports (QARs) for FY 2023. The CCC urged the remaining LGUs to engage in the CCET process to better align their financial plans with national climate priorities. The People's Survival Fund (PSF), alongside CCET, supports LGUs and local organizations by financing climate adaptation projects in areas such as water management, agriculture, health, infrastructure, disease monitoring, early warning systems, institutional development, information networks, risk insurance, and community programs. The CCC remains committed to work closely with BARMM and other partners to ensure the successful localization of the NAP, equipping the region to better withstand the impacts of climate change. “We will translate the NAP into tangible actions with measurable results. By prioritizing the submission of LCCAPs and engaging in the CCET process, BARMM can significantly contribute to the nation’s collective capacity to confront and overcome climate challenges, ultimately building a more resilient future for all Filipinos,” Borje stated. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.
