June 22, 2026 Monday
Members of the Philippine delegation at the Ocean Dialogue of the 64th Sessions of the Subsidiary Bodies (SB64) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in Bonn, Germany.
BONN, Germany — The Philippines underscored the need for the Global Goal on Adaptation (GGA) to be grounded in indicators to identify needs, mobilize support, and guide implementation at the 64th Sessions of the Subsidiary Bodies (SB64) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
During informal consultations on matters relating to the GGA, the Philippines emphasized the importance of operationalizing adaptation indicators and accelerating work under the Belém–Addis Vision on Adaptation, a process aimed at helping countries assess progress and strengthen adaptation action.
Speaking at the sidelines, Climate Change Commission (CCC) Commissioner and Head of Delegation Atty. Rachel Anne S. Herrera underscored the urgency of operalizationalizing of the GGA.
“Adaptation efforts must be supported by accessible finance, technology transfer, and capacity-building,” Herrera added.
The country stressed that adaptation indicators should serve a practical purpose by helping identify adaptation needs, inform decision-making, strengthen implementation, and mobilize support for vulnerable countries and communities.
Recognizing the importance of science-based and inclusive adaptation planning, the Philippines highlighted the need to draw on scientific knowledge, as well as traditional, indigenous, and local knowledge systems, while promoting human rights and gender equality in adaptation efforts.
The Philippine delegation also called for the immediate establishment of the proposed technical task force that will support the development and operationalization of adaptation indicators. It underscored the importance of balanced regional representation and the participation of experts from relevant UN bodies and adaptation-related work programmes.
To support implementation, the Philippines proposed the development of practical tools and guidance, including methodologies, metadata, and data standards that would enable countries to apply adaptation indicators according to their national circumstances while avoiding additional reporting burdens for developing countries.
The country likewise stressed that adaptation progress cannot be achieved without adequate means of implementation. In discussions on the Baku Adaptation Road Map, the Philippines advocated for adaptation finance to remain a central component of the process, including efforts to address persistent gaps and barriers in accessing financial support.
The Philippines also reiterated support for scaling up adaptation finance and strengthening assistance for developing countries in implementing National Adaptation Plans, monitoring and evaluation systems, and adaptation actions on the ground.
According to Climate Change Commission (CCC) Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje, the Philippines' positions in international climate negotiations are anchored on the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to advance the country's interests while strengthening resilience against the growing impacts of climate change.
“Guided by this directive, the Philippines continues to advocate for stronger support for developing countries and meaningful outcomes that help communities adapt to climate impacts and build resilience,” Borje said.
Borje also emphasized that adaptation remains a national priority, particularly for a country that faces recurring climate-related hazards.
“For the Philippines, adaptation is fundamentally about safeguarding people and communities. Every investment in resilience strengthens our capacity to withstand climate impacts and secure a safer future for present and future generations,” he added.
Throughout negotiations in Bonn, the Philippines remained committed to advancing adaptation, resilience, and climate justice while working with fellow developing countries to secure outcomes that respond to the needs of those most at risk. The country continues to push for ambitious and inclusive climate solutions.
The SB64 meetings took place from June 8 to 18, 2026, serving as a critical platform for advancing technical negotiations and preparing decisions for adoption at the next UN Climate Change Conference.
To read more on the Philippines’ participation in SB64, visit the Climate Change Commission official website at www.climate.gov.ph and www.facebook.com/CCCPhl.