Sibugay Wetland Nature Reserve and Del Carmen Mangrove Reserve, the 9th and 10th Ramsar sites in the Philippines listed on the Wetlands of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention. [Photos courtesy of Zamboanga Sibugay and Del Carmen, Siargao LGUs] Wetlands play a crucial role in protecting diverse ecosystems by providing shelter for migratory birds, fish and amphibians, including endangered and near-threatened species. They also provide essential services for local communities such as flood mitigation, carbon sinks, and water quality maintenance. For agriculture, wetlands ensure fertile lands and reliable water sources for crops. In the Philippines, the list of Ramsar Sites is growing. Just recently, the Sibugay Wetland Nature Reserve (SWNR) and the Del Carmen Mangrove Reserve (DCMR) in Siargao Island Protected Landscape and Seascape (SIPLAS) have been designated as Wetlands of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, making them the 9th and 10th Ramsar Sites in the Philippines. The Sibugay Wetland Nature Reserve is an important habitat for thousands of migratory birds during the migratory season. Here, they rest, eat, drink and find safe refuge from predators. Its mudflats serve as a critical stopover for migratory shorebirds within the East Asia Australasian Flyway, including the endangered great knot (Calidris tenuirostris), Far Eastern curlew (Numenius madagascariensis), the vulnerable Chinese egret (Egretta eulophotes), and the endemic Philippine duck (Anas luzonica). The reserve also hosts nine near-threatened species, namely black-tailed godwit (Limosa limosa), bar-tailed godwit (Limosa lapponica), grey-tailed tattler (Heteroscelus brevipes), Eurasian curlew (Numenius arquata), Asiatic dowitcher (Limnodromus semipalmatus), curlew sandpiper (Calidris ferruginea), red knot (Calidris canutus), red-necked Stint (Calidris ruficollis), and Malaysian plover (Charadrius peronii). The critically endangered hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata), the endangered green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas), and the vulnerable olive ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) also find refuge at the SWNR. Two of the world’s largest flying foxes, the Philippine endemic and endangered golden-crowned flying fox (Acerodon jubatus), and the large flying fox (Pteropus vampyrus), use the reserve as roost sites. Meanwhile, the Del Carmen Mangrove Reserve is home to a diverse collection of organisms, including species that are globally threatened or endemic to the Philippines and the Mindanao region. These include the Philippine duck (Anas luzonica) and the southern rufous hornbill (Buceros mindanensis), and the two restricted-range species, namely the Mindanao hornbill (Penelopides affinis) and the yellowish bulbul (Hypsipetes everetti). The mangroves in DCMR cover approximately 4,871 hectares or 53.24% of Siargao Island's total mangrove forest, providing nearby communities with protection against storm surges. It also supports local livelihood through food production and ecotourism activities. Del Carmern Mayor Alfredo M. Coro II emphasized that climate action also needs standards of measure to ensure correctness of the initiative and investment. “The official declaration of the Del Carmen Mangrove Forest Reserve as the 10th UN Ramsar Site in the Philippines signifies the rightful decisions amidst the sacrifices of Del Carmenons,” he said. “The Del Carmen Mangrove Reserve will continue to be our source of food, our sheltering from storm surges, our eco-tourism destination and our history,” Coro added. The Ramsar Convention is an international treaty that promotes the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands worldwide. Signed in 1971, the Convention designates wetlands as Ramsar sites for their ecological, economic and cultural value. In the face of the escalating climate change and ecological challenges, protecting wetlands has never been more crucial for our climate-resilient and sustainable future. The Philippines has been on the Ramsar List since 1994, and currently has 10 Ramsar sites, namely: Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary in Cebu Province (1994); Naujan Lake National Park in Oriental Mindoro (1999); Agusan Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary (1999); Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park in Palawan (1999); Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park in Palawan (2012); Las Piñas-Parañaque Critical Habitat and Ecotourism Area (2013); Negros Occidental Coastal Wetlands Conservation Area (2016); Sasmuan Pampanga Coastal Wetlands (2021); Sibugay Wetland Nature Reserve (2024); and Del Carmen Mangrove Reserve (2024). “These Ramsar sites showcase our commitment to the National Adaptation Plan's goal of protecting biodiversity and strengthening ecosystem services. Wetlands play a critical role in our climate resilience strategy by safeguarding communities from disasters and supporting livelihoods. The designation of the Sibugay Wetland Nature Reserve and Del Carmen Mangrove Reserve is a significant step toward achieving our adaptation targets,” said CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.
The Philippines delivers a statement during the oral proceedings at the International Court of Justice on the request of the UN General Assembly for an advisory opinion on the question of the obligations of States in respect of climate change (Photo from the Philippine Embassy in the Netherlands) MANILA, 4 December 2024 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) commended the Philippines' and climate-vulnerable states’ presentation of oral arguments in the public hearings on advisory proceedings before the International Court of Justice (ICJ), underscoring the importance of a robust international rules-based system in advancing transformative climate action and support for climate vulnerable states. These hearings, taking place from December 2 to 13, 2024 in The Hague, Netherlands, seek to address two key questions involving the obligations of States under international law to ensure the protection of the climate system and other parts of the environment from anthropogenic emissions of greenhouse gases, and the legal consequences for those who have caused significant harm to the climate system and other parts of the environment. With 97 States and 11 international organizations participating, this is the largest case ever brought before the world court. The ICJ hearings follow the adoption of United Nations General Assembly Resolution 77/276, spearheaded by small island developing States, particularly Vanuatu. The Philippines, standing in solidarity with vulnerable countries, presented its position in alignment with the broader international call for urgent climate action and justice. “The reality of extreme weather events, rising sea levels and other adverse effects of warming temperatures around the world, all of which are beyond natural climate variability, requires all of us to take bold and decisive actions,” Philippine Ambassador to the Netherlands Eduardo J. Malaya said. During the proceedings, Solicitor General Menardo I. Guevarra highlighted the scientific consensus on the alarming rise of global temperatures and the devastating impacts of climate change on vulnerable nations such as the Philippines. “…This environmental crisis attributed to anthropogenic GHG emissions is surely not experienced in isolation by the Philippines. As we have learned from Vanuatu, the Bahamas, Bangladesh and South Africa, among others, these unusual and unprecedented climate changes have become a global phenomenon,” Guevarra said. Ambassador Carlos Sorreta, Permanent Representative of the Philippines to the UN, speaking on the UN Charter, human rights, and UNCLOS, emphasized that climate change threatens global peace, security, and human rights. He called on the international community to uphold the principles of international law to address this crisis. “States are bound to address the climate crisis within a legal framework that maintains peace and security, respects sovereignty, and upholds human rights. Law is essential to ensure a future where all can live with dignity, security, and resilience in the face of a dramatically changing climate,” Sorreta emphasized. Solicitor General Guevarra further presented the general principles of international law, as well as the Customary International Law (CIL). He emphasized that state obligations to mitigate GHG emissions are not limited to signed treaties but are anchored in universally recognized norms. He also introduced domestic remedial measures, particularly the Writ of Kalikasan, a judicial remedy that offers legal protection for environmental rights. He noted that this remedy, under the Rules of Procedure for Environmental Cases (RPEC), is the first of its kind globally. In his concluding statement, Guevarra underscored the binding nature of various legal frameworks: "..The entire gamut of international law informs the obligation of 33 States for their anthropogenic GHG emissions in a manner that is far more encompassing than what has already been achieved by the international community under the climate change regime. Now more than ever, the authoritative guidance of this Court is being sought to express in no uncertain terms that the contributory conduct of States in relation to climate change is bound by established conventions, customary law, and general principles." The Climate Change Commission (CCC) affirmed that the Philippines’ statement at ICJ reflects the core considerations of historic anthropogenic GHG contributions, climate justice, transboundary impacts, intergenerational equity, and the need for urgent interventions. The Philippines’ position is rooted in fundamental principles of international law, and it is not confined to specific treaties. It draws upon well-established norms, including those enshrined in the Philippine Constitution and domestic legal remedies such as the Writ of Kalikasan. The CCC reiterated that the country’s stance aligns with its long-standing principles in international climate negotiations, by advocating for the interests of highly vulnerable communities in the face of climate change. “Underscoring UNCLOS and international instruments that clarify responsibilities and commitments of States, the Philippines under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., remains a strong voice, arguing for rules-based international system, security and sustainability of the planet and respect for human rights amid a climate crisis. The CCC is honored to be part of the inter-agency and one-country-team approach led by the Office of the Solicitor General in the development of the Philippines’ position,” CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje said. The ICJ’s advisory opinion will play a crucial role in shaping future global climate policies, reinforcing the collective duty of States to protect the environment for present and future generations. UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized that the opinion could guide stronger climate action and ensure accountability among States. As the world awaits the ICJ’s opinion, the Philippine government, through the CCC, remains committed to support this process by working with local and international partners to strengthen climate action and advocating for legal clarity and justice on behalf of vulnerable communities worldwide.
The Climate Change Commission conducts a climate briefing seminar to present the latest scientific findings on climate change and its impacts on the Philippine situation. MANILA, Philippines – In commemoration of the 17th Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness Week, the Climate Change Commission (CCC) held the Climate Briefing 2024, which gathered climate experts, policymakers, and key stakeholders to discuss urgent climate issues and the country’s strategic actions for a climate-resilient future. The briefing highlighted the CCC’s policies focusing on the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) and Nationally Determined Contribution Implementation Plan (NDCIP). These frameworks integrate climate adaptation and mitigation strategies into national and local policies. “They are comprehensive roadmaps designed with every sector in mind. From local government units to civil society, from the private sector to vulnerable communities, the NAP and NDCIP provide clear guidance on how we can collectively address climate challenges,” said Secretary Robert E.A. Borje, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director. The discussion also highlighted climate reports from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) and the Philippine Climate Change Assessment (PhilCCA) Report Cycle II by the Oscar M. Lopez (OML) Center for Climate Resilient Communities. Dr. Rodel D. Lasco, Executive Director of the OML Center, emphasized the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events. “This generation is experiencing more frequent and intense extreme weather events, with noticeable changes in temperature, rainfall patterns, tropical cyclones, and sea level rise,” he stated. Dr. John A. Manalo, Weather Specialist at PAGASA, described how human activities drive these changes. “The weather patterns we experience are largely caused by human activities, including the impacts of El Niño and intensified tropical cyclones. These contribute significantly to the broader phenomenon of climate change, which underscores the urgent need for climate action,” he said. The briefing emphasized the urgent need to address climate vulnerabilities. Policymakers and communities were encouraged to use the findings to drive local action and build resilience across sectors. Secretary Borje urged the media and stakeholders to simplify technical data for wider reach and broader public understanding. "By presenting this information in layman’s terms, we can drive climate action, enhance public awareness, and empower communities to take proactive steps against climate change," he stated. The briefing brought together participants from various sectors, including students from the Philippine Women’s University, media, government agencies, private sector leaders, and civil society organizations. The CCC remains committed to using the latest science to inform its efforts in building a resilient and sustainable future for the Philippines. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.
The Philippine Resilience Awards, which recognizes climate leaders in the youth and women categories, were held at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City. MANILA — The Philippine Resilience Awards 2024 (PRA) recognized exceptional Filipino women and youth climate trailblazers who have demonstrated leadership and innovation in climate change adaptation, disaster risk reduction, and resilience building within their communities. In her keynote speech, Senator Loren Legarda highlighted the crucial role of women in climate action. “Their knowledge, experience, and leadership are critical to build resilience. This is why we must continue to amplify their voices, not only in the community but in decision-making processes at all levels of government,” she stated. In ceremonies held on 25 November 2024 at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City, five women were honored as resilience champions for their significant contributions to climate action in the women category: ● Daisy Cabauatan, Provincial Chief, Bureau of Fire Protection Nueva Vizcaya, Operations, Programs, and Training Head; ● Divina Fontanilla, Municipal Mayor, Bacnotan, La Union; ● Cecilia Quipayo, Board Member, Cagbunga, Veneracion, Tampadong (CVT) Agri Resilient Farmers Organization, Inc., Pamplona, Camarines Sur; ● Ma. Thessa Ramos, Founder, Eastern Visayas Society of Native Tree Conservation, Inc. and Youth for Resilience Network, Maasin, Leyte; and ● Erma Suyo, Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Officer, Provincial Government Head, Agusan del Norte. In the second category focusing on the youth sector, two exceptional individuals were recognized for their innovative climate resilience efforts, ● Christian John Evangelista, Astronomer-Meteorologist and DRRM Officer V, Manila City DRRM Office; and ● Edren Llanillo, Executive Director, Padyarescue Incorporated, and Co-founder, Go Bike Project, Bugallon, Pangasinan. The awardees in both categories will each receive Php150,000 to further scale up their climate resilience initiatives. The PRA serves as a platform to elevate the community of practice of climate and disaster resilience through the efforts of community changemakers. Dr. Macario T. Jusayan, Chief Gender and Development Specialist of the Philippine Commission on Women, emphasized the importance of collective efforts in addressing climate challenges. “Let us remember that building climate resilience is not just about addressing immediate threats, but also about forging a legacy of hope and security for future generations,” he remarked. Led by the Climate Change Commission (CCC), the Office of Senator Loren Legarda, the National Resilience Council, the Philippine Commission on Women, SM Prime, ARISE, and the Women’s International Network on Disaster Risk Reduction, the awards celebrate innovative approaches that align with national and global climate goals. Secretary Robert E.A. Borje, Vice Chairperson and Executive Director of the CCC, emphasized the critical role of women and youth to build climate resilience. “Their leadership proves that when we include everyone in the fight against climate change, we can develop more inclusive and sustainable solutions,” he said. Alongside the awards ceremony, two knowledge products were launched: “Journey to Climate Resilience: The Philippine Story,” a publication detailing the Philippines' climate resilience journey, and the “Filipina Changemakers,” a video documentary series featuring women leading climate initiatives in San Vicente, Palawan and Tiwi, Albay. The book underscores the importance of science-based, risk-informed decision-making in safeguarding lives, livelihoods, and ecosystems. CCC Commissioner Rachel Herrera stated, “In sharing these stories of progress, we aim to inspire other nations and communities facing similar challenges to adopt resilient pathways.” The Philippine Resilience Awards 2024 and the launch of the publication and documentary are part of the 17th National Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness Week 2024, celebrated from November 19 to 25 with the theme “Aksyon at Adaptasyon ng Makabagong Henerasyon.” This annual commemoration serves as a platform to raise public awareness of the urgent need for climate action and to promote community-based resilience efforts. The event was attended by representatives from the Embassy of Singapore and Japan. Joining them were members of the field validation committees, 2023 PRA winners Ms. Nida Collado and Mila Bognalbal, partners such as UN Women, and various media organizations. For more inquiries, visit the PRA’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/PRAwards.PH.
Representatives from the DENR, DOE, DOTr, DOLE, and PSA attended the series of writeshops in preparation of the Philippines' first Biennial Transparency Report (BTR). MANILA, 29 November 2024 — The Climate Change Commission (CCC), in collaboration with the Capacity Building Initiatives on Transparency - Global Support Programme (CBIT-GSP), conducted a series of writeshops in preparation of the Philippines' first Biennial Transparency Report (BTR). These activities are critical steps in fulfilling the country's commitment to the Enhanced Transparency Framework (ETF) under the Paris Agreement, in line with Decision 18/CMA 1, which requires developing countries to submit their first BTR by December 31, 2024. The first event focused on capacity building for key stakeholders involved in the preparation of the BTR. Participants from the Department of Transportation (DOTr), Department of Energy (DOE), and Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) attended the training, which was facilitated by the inter-agency BTR Technical Working Group (TWG), established by the CCC. The training, led by Mr. Jaypalsinh Chauhan from CBIT-GSP, provided comprehensive guidance on the ETF and the BTR process. Key topics included the requirement for annual GHG inventories starting from the first year of the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) implementation; the need to submit Common Reporting Tables (CRTs) for the NDC reference year, along with annual CRTs for implementation years; and flexibility provisions for developing countries, including approaches to address data gaps. Building on the initial workshop, the CCC held a follow-up writeshop to finalize the narrative of the first BTR. Representatives from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), DOE, DENR, DOTr, and Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) contributed additional data on the National Greenhouse Gas Inventory and NDC implementation. The writeshop focused on reviewing and enhancing the accuracy and completeness of the preliminary draft of the BTR. Participants provided inputs on CTF Table 5, which outlines progress on NDC policies and measures, as well as support needs in finance, technology, and capacity-building. Sectoral overview inputs will be submitted to the CCC by December 2, 2024. In underscoring the importance of these capacity-building initiatives, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje emphasized the alignment with national policy priorities. “This training is crucial for strengthening the institutional capacities of our key agencies to fulfill the requirements under the Enhanced Transparency Framework. The Biennial Transparency Report will serve as a concrete demonstration of our progress in implementing the NDC and responding to the climate crisis. This is our commitment to build a transparent and accountable framework for climate action,” Borje said. The CCC, through its BTR TWG, will continue to coordinate efforts to ensure the timely and accurate submission of the Philippines' first BTR, demonstrating the country's commitment to international climate transparency obligations. For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.
