In order to combat the negative effects of climate change, Vice President Sara Duterte is advocating for more coordinated planning and action in emerging communities.
The Philippines contributes “minimally to global emissions yet bears a disproportionate burden from climate impacts,” she said.
In a video statement posted on Wednesday, November 19, she stated, “As we observe Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness Month, let us recognize that climate change is personal—it affects the land we farm, the waters we fish, the homes we build, and the future we leave our children.”
“Investment in early warning systems is necessary … as part of the vision to develop resilient communities,” she said, urging LGUs to place greater emphasis on infrastructure that strengthens climate resilience.
Fifteen typhoons this year devastated coastlines, uprooted thousands of people, and “left communities in poverty and incredible state of destruction,” according to Duterte.
The vice president said, “Climate change-related calamities test our resilience and readiness as families, as communities, and as a nation.”
Investing in “early warning systems is necessary as part of the vision to develop resilient communities,” according to the second in charge.
She also stressed the need to protect natural ecosystems — such as forests, mangroves, rivers, and seas — which act as important buffers against the impacts of climate change.
At the same time, Duterte told ordinary citizens that combating climate change isn’t just a governmental responsibility. She encouraged families to adopt sustainable habits:
Reduce waste
Avoid single-use plastics
Support and join community clean-up drives
Speaking previously on National Disaster Resilience Month, she also made a similar call for environmental stewardship, urging Filipinos to plant trees and participate in reforestation activities.
To support these efforts, Duterte’s Office has launched the Pagbabago: A Million Learners and Trees Campaign, aiming to plant one million trees throughout the country by 2028.
