President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. delivered a message at the inaugural session of the ASEAN Climate Week, highlighting a whole-of-system approach in confronting the global crisis. The Climate Change Commission (CCC) also joined the event and participated in the high-level panel discussion conducted via Zoom.

MANILA, Philippines — During the inaugural session of the ASEAN Climate Week on Monday, Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. highlighted that the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), through a whole-of-system approach and strengthened collaboration, holds the resolve to confront the global crisis.

“ASEAN stands at the frontlines of the global climate crisis, as stronger storms, rising seas, prolonged droughts, and devastating floods have become realities for millions across the southeast asian region.“

Marcos added, “Confronting these challenges is our shared responsibility and ASEAN has shown that through cooperation, we can overcome common problems with our collective purpose and resolve.”

Reiterating President Marcos’ message, the Climate Change Commission (CCC) also underscored an integrated, whole-of-system approach to ensure long-term resilience and economic stability during the inaugural session.

The CCC recognized ASEAN as a key platform for strengthening coordination and partnerships to address the global climate crisis.

CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje emphasized that addressing climate risks requires a shift from fragmented responses toward more integrated and coordinated systems across the region.

“The Philippines approaches this challenge with the recognition that climate risks, economic stability, and energy systems across ASEAN are increasingly interconnected. At the same time, responses remain largely national in scope. This gap—between shared exposure and fragmented control—underscores the need for more integrated and coordinated approaches.”

Borje further noted that maintaining climate ambition while ensuring resilience and stability requires aligning each priority within a coherent system that supports long-term development.

The ASEAN Climate Week, which is being held from April 27 to May 1, aims to advance Nationally Determined Contributions, strengthen climate action through high-level dialogues, technical exchanges, and targeted training across ASEAN.

Held for the first time and hosted by the Philippines, the ASEAN Climate Week underscores the country’s role in advancing regional climate leadership and deepening collaboration among ASEAN Member States in addressing interconnected climate, energy, and development challenges.

For more information on the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.