The Climate Change Commission (CCC) marked the Annual Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness Week on 19 to 25 November with a call for unity from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., active participation of the youth in finding solutions to the challenges of changing weather patterns, and use of simplified technical data to develop resilience from climate disasters.

This year’s theme, “Aksyon at Adaptasyon ng Makabagong Henerasyon,” emphasizes the importance of collaborative action in realizing the nation’s climate goals, promoting sustainability, and raising public awareness on the importance of climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts, in line with the government’s long-term vision for sustainable development and climate resilience.

Marcos, the chairperson of CCC, expressed confidence that through unity and shared commitment, Filipinos can rise to the challenge and secure a brighter tomorrow for generations to come.

“We are continuously called to press on so that the next generations can still enjoy the lush and bountiful Philippines that we have inherited,” the President said.

“As we commit to building a Bagong Pilipinas, let our vision be vivid. We want the Philippines that is well taken care of. We want a nation that will remain unshaken no matter the situation. Most importantly, we want to have a people that truly appreciate the abundance of our lands and our seas,” he added.

The President also stressed the significance of CCC Week as a platform to inspire change and spark appreciation for the country’s rich natural resources.

“Together with deeds both big and small, let us stay on our mission for a safer, greener, brighter future for all,” he said.

CCC vice chairperson and executive director Robert E.A. Borje underscored the President’s vision on climate solidarity in his closing remarks.

“This gathering is more than a recognition of partnerships; it is a rallying call for action. Climate action and adaptation is a whole-of-nation, a whole-of-society, and a whole-of-world endeavor, and there is much at stake,” Borje said.

Briefing, seminar

Dr. Rodel D. Lasco, executive director of the OML Center, emphasized the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events during the Climate Briefing 2024.

“This generation is experiencing more frequent and intense extreme weather events, with noticeable changes in temperature, rainfall patterns, tropical cyclones, and sea level rise,” Lasco said.

Dr. John A. Manalo, weather specialist at the state-owned weather bureau Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration, said that the weather patterns we experience are largely caused by human activities, including the impacts of El Niño and intensified tropical cyclones. These contribute significantly to the broader phenomenon of climate change, which underscores the urgent need for climate action, he said.

The briefing highlighted the CCC’s policies focusing on the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) and Nationally Determined Contribution Implementation Plan (NDCIP), These frameworks integrate climate adaptation and mitigation strategies into national and local policies.

“The NAP and NDCIP are roadmaps or guides that help us adapt to climate change and reduce the harm caused by extreme weather. Our collaboration with cities, towns, and communities is key to turning these strategies into actions,” Borje said at a seminar held at the University of the Philippines Los Baños.

The discussion centered on the power of collective effort and how Filipino youth can make meaningful contributions through simple actions such as reducing single-use plastics, conserving energy and choosing eco-friendly transportation options.

Borje encouraged students to actively participate in discovering solutions for climate challenges. “Explore how you can contribute to efforts to solve climate challenges. Learn, get involved, and lead by example,” he said.