Philippines Takes the Lead in Climate Change Adaptation
The Philippines will host the fourth meeting of the Loss and Damage Fund (LDF) Board from December 2 to 5, 2024, in Manila, reinforcing its leadership in climate change adaptation. As the host country, the Philippines will lead in global efforts to provide financial support to nations severely hit by climate change.
This meeting follows the COP29 conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, where leaders committed to tripling climate finance for developing countries from $100 billion to $300 billion annually by 2035. Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary of UN Climate Change, stressed the need to honor these financial promises to protect vulnerable communities.
Strong Commitment to Climate Change Adaptation
The Philippines is at the center of the conversation on climate change adaptation, taking on a leadership role in addressing the urgent need to combat its impending effects.
The COP29’s decision to increase climate finance highlights the global recognition of the growing threat to developing nations. As one of the countries most vulnerable to climate impacts, the Philippines is vital in ensuring that financial support reaches those who need it most. Simon Stiell described the increased climate finance as an “insurance policy” for humanity, underscoring the necessity of timely action to protect future generations.
Building Resilience Amidst Increasing Storms
The LDF Board meeting comes at a critical moment for the Philippines, which has faced multiple deadly storms in recent months. In October and November 2024, a series of storms, including super typhoons, devastated communities, agriculture, and infrastructure. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported that these storms affected over 1.1 million families.
Despite the devastation, the country’s enhanced preemptive evacuation systems and early warning measures have saved lives, proving the importance of building resilience in the face of climate change.
READ: DENR Geohazard Map: Unused When It Mattered Most
Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga reiterated the Philippines’ deep commitment to the Loss and Damage Fund, stressing the nation’s long history of living with the risks of climate change. “Living with risk and loss has been part of our history,” she stated, highlighting the country’s personal stake in ensuring the Fund’s success.
With the passage of Republic Act No. 12019, which grants legal standing to the LDF Board, the country is solidifying its leadership role in supporting climate recovery and building resilience for affected communities.
