Vice President Sara Duterte on Wednesday urged local government units to prioritize climate preparation and adaptation in development planning, including the preservation and rehabilitation of forests, mangroves, rivers, and seas.

In her message for this year's observance of Global Warming and Climate Consciousness Week, Duterte emphasized the need to invest in early warning systems as part of the vision to develop resilient communities.

"I encourage Filipino families to teach our children that caring for nature means caring for each other—reduce waste, avoid single-use plastics, and embrace sustainable practices," she said.

"Let this month ignite a lasting commitment to a livable future, preserved and passed on for generations to come," the Vice President added.

According to Duterte, the Philippines contributes minimally to global emissions yet bears a disproportionate burden from climate impacts.

"Let us recognize that climate change is personal—it affects the land we farm, the waters we fish, the homes we build, and the future we leave our children," she said.

"This year, fifteen typhoons battered our shores, displaced thousands of people, and left communities in poverty and incredible state of destruction," she added.

Duterte stressed that climate change-related calamities test Filipinos’ resilience and readiness as families, communities, and as a nation.

"Let us remind ourselves that our choice matters—how we consume, what we waste, how we build. Each decision either deepens the challenge or helps us adapt, reduce, or prepare for the more adverse effects of the climate crisis," she said.

She also noted that the Office of the Vice President has already planted 1 million trees nationwide in just three years.

"This was our commitment in the advocacy to strengthen our defenses against the impact of climate change," Duterte said.