JAKARTA, Indonesia – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has called on developed countries to heighten the implementation of their commitments to climate change at the upcoming 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) in the United Arab Emirates.

During the intervention at the 43rd ASEAN Summit Plenary on Tuesday, Marcos said that climate change is the most urgent threat to the region's progress as the Philippines is one of the most disaster-prone countries in the world.

He added the impacts of climate change are already being felt in the form of more frequent and intense storms, floods, and droughts.

"At COP28, ASEAN must call on developed countries to heighten the implementation of their commitments," Marcos said.

"These commitments include climate finance, technology development and transfer, and capacity building. We need these resources to prevent, mitigate, manage, and adapt to the impacts of climate change," he added.

Marcos also said that the Philippines will continue to prioritize international cooperation that will make ASEAN climate-smart and disaster-ready. He said that the country will work with its neighbors to harness the transformative potential of the agricultural sector to ensure food security for future generations.

"The continued effectiveness of our Community-building efforts rests on a clear assessment of our strengths," Marcos said. "The Philippines will continue to champion for change that will strengthen our institutions, improve our decision-making, and uphold ASEAN Centrality."

COP28 is scheduled to take place in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, from 30 November to 12 December 2023.

In light of the Philippines' vulnerability to disasters, Marcos emphasized the country's commitment to fostering global collaboration. He stressed the importance of initiatives that enhance ASEAN's resilience to climate change and disasters, with a particular focus on the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity.