The climate change agency is urged to design ‘clear and concrete’ policies for disaster risk reduction

MANILA – The Finance Secretary, Carlos Domínguez III, urged the Climate Change Commission (CCC) to “aggressively advocate” and implement “concrete political proposals” for the protection of the environment and mitigating disaster risks.

“I urge the Commission to help us pursue climate justice from the international community. The Philippines is definitely not one of the largest emitters of greenhouse gases in the world, but it is certainly among the most vulnerable to its harmful effects. Challenge to Climate Change Commission to advocate more aggressively for the protection of our environment. It must promote concrete policy proposals while generating public awareness and public support, “said Domínguez during the celebration of the XIII Week of Awareness of the Climate change.

Domínguez was recently appointed by the president of the CCC.

He said the COVID-19 crisis can be used as an opportunity to tailor the country’s economic recovery programs to mobilize investments in national renewable energy, sustainable urban planning and climate-smart agriculture.

He noted the need for clear and understandable strategies for disaster risk reduction, mitigation and sustainable development, as well as the deployment of digital financial tools to help households easily access financial services such as credit and savings.

“The Philippines is well positioned to make a difference in this battle against the climate crisis. Let’s work hand in hand to achieve a new low-carbon economy and a greener future for all ”, added Domínguez.

The series of super typhoons and floods left thousands of Filipinos vulnerable weeks after the disasters and resulted in billions of losses for the country.

Last week, President Rodrigo Duterte lobbied for the urgent need to demand climate justice from Southeast Asian leaders, calling on developed nations to lead “drastic cuts” in carbon emissions, as they are primarily responsible for fueling the climate crisis.