PBBM to APEC members: Reflect on historical injustice of climate change

SAN FRANCISCO, C.A. — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called on the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) members to reflect a historical climate injustice for "those who are least responsible suffer the most."

In a speech at the APEC Leaders' Informal Dialogue and Working Lunch with Guests on Thursday (US Time), Marcos said that climate change is one of the region's most pressing challenges today and that APEC offers a unique platform for collaboration on climate action.

Hence, Marcos called for stronger regional cooperation to address climate change, emphasizing the need for a just and inclusive transition to a clean, renewable, and sustainable economy.

"APEC's work must reflect a historical climate injustice for those that are least responsible suffer the most," Marcos said.

"The just energy transition entails not only ensuring that affected and already underserved segments such as micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and rural and geographically disadvantaged communities continue to have access to affordable energy, but also that our ambition is supported by quality jobs and workforce development, human resource upskilling, infrastructure connectivity, and blended finance packages," Marcos added.

He also highlighted the importance of economic reform toward greening the economy, noting the need for good regulatory practices and integrating innovation into regulatory policy development.

"Tools such as impact assessment, public consultation, and international regulatory cooperation would improve regulatory efficiency," Marcos said.

The President also called for stronger economic and technical cooperation to ensure that green energy solutions are accessible and affordable to all.

"Let me end by saying that regional cooperation, structural reforms, and capacity building will be even more critical as we advance toward our sustainability and inclusivity goals," Marcos said.

"The current economic climate presents us with several opportunities to drive peace, prosperity, and resilience in our region and the global economy."

Marcos commended the United States for its excellent chairmanship of APEC this year and for sparking critical discussions on climate change.
"I commend the U.S. for sparking critical discussions warranting our commitment and for its excellent chairmanship of APEC this year, bringing us all closer to a sustainable and resilient future," Marcos said.