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  • Globally, since 1950, ocean temperature increased by about 0.09oC




  • strengthening planning, execution, and financing framework for climate change
  • building capacity and managing change




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Additional Reference:

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Together we can do this




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“Getting a Grip … On Climate Change in the Philippines”






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There are more practices that can destroy our marine biodiversity like
• Muro-ami which is destroying the coral reefs.
• Dynamite fishing that uses explosives to caught fish
• Mining and selling of Black sands from beaches.



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"Adapting to climate change"
Retrieved on October 3, 2013 from




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Climate change is really happening so fast than we think.
How do we manage ourselves in the preparation of climate change?

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As stated in the predictions, human activities affected the climate

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A Better Place for Everyone






“Wala ka bang napapansin sa iyong mga kapaligiran?

Upang kung tayo'y pumanaw man, sariwang hangin sa langit natin matitikman

Mayron lang akong hinihiling sa aking pagpanaw sana ay tag-ulan
Gitara ko ay aking dadalhin upang sa ulap na lang tayo magkantahan

May mga batang ngayon lang isinilang may hangin pa kayang matitikman?



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• Is capacity built? Is change managed?

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Submitted by Paul Song on

Historically, Filipinos have been adapting to the rapid change for the past century with regards to the weather. Typhoons build up during summer, warm climate on the rainy season, unexplainable flooding , etc. Our Government already took necessary precautionary measures. Including but not limited to, NGO's on standby to provide relief aid, AFP, Philippine Red Cross, PNP to name a few. The government sector already started to increase the height of our elevation of our roads and built flood gates and effective drainage systems.

But, regardless of these measures that has already took place. Calamities are still affecting our community. Is it because of the lack of manpower? Resources or equipment? Despite of all the efforts our society exerts, we were not able to fully prevent or at the very least, be able to cruise through a storm.

Several focus group discussions and root cause analysis has been made with regard to the issue at hand. Reforestation was already a practice but illegal logging is still an issue. Philippines is not a major green house gas (GHG) emitter. But, considering the fact that the Philippines is an archipelago surrounded by bodies of water. We are vulnerable to the impending change and effects of climate change. As per the World Bank report. Sea levels have been rising by 15-20 cm from pre-industrial levels with the rate nearly doubling from that of the past century. Hypothetically speaking. We will be able to adapt from the changing climate if the People’s Survival Fund (PSF) are being utilized to its purpose, not somewhere else. A moment to ponder..

Submitted by Antonio Amoncio Jr. on

Good day!

Global Warming as we know it is inevitable. Climate change is already gaining on us. There's no one else to blame but all of us...well most of us. Prevention of Global Warming "may" be possible but the best thing that we could do now is to slow it down. The thing is, our government doesn't really prioritize the cleanliness of our environment. When I went to the United States, when you're caught by the cops throwing even a piece of plastic wrapper on the streets, you'll end up being reprimanded. Filipinos need to be disciplined the hard way. Most of the Filipinos are like children. They are very stubborn. In the US, citizens are "afraid" to disobey the law because the sanctions that are given once you break the law would make you think more than twice to break it. Here in the Philippines, people aren't afraid of cops because cops also break the law themselves and they could easily be bribed. Filipinos need to live in a more strict environment. As individuals, yes we may have done our jobs to be an essential part of the society but that is not enough. We ALL must move as one in order to save the humanity.

We aren't also the ones at fault. Our government is also to be blamed. The TAX we pay that should be used for the betterment of the society end up in the pockets of our corrupt leaders. I couldn't imagine how thick their faces are. Thinking that they money they use to build roofs over their heads, food to satisfy their cravings and hunger, fancy clothes to wear, luxurious cars that they don't even need came from hardworking Filipinos thinking that the TAX they pay would be used to make our country a better place to live in. I honestly despise our government. I'm disgusted on how they indulge themselves with money they didn't even work for.

If I'm given a chance to speak out loud to ALL the Filipinos, I would recommend a total government reboot wherein we are given a chance to elect leaders that are really meant to lead us all. No more campaigns to earn votes, no more fancy jingles and other ways of convincing others to vote them. There must be a monthly budget report to be shown to all of the Filipinos to see where our money is going, government officials MUST only receive the salaries they're supposed to receive. No more bonuses. No more PDAF. The reason why I'm focusing all my rants to the government is because they're capable of earning so much money that's enough to save our environment and to save those who were and will be affected by calamities. Yes we as ordinary people couldn't stop climate change but the government has the power to speak to the entire Filipino nation to inform us of what's to come if we continue with our current way of living. If Global Warming is already on its peak, we may be left extinct. Some of us may think that "hey what the heck, we won't be here to witness everything when it comes down". Don't forget about our future generations. They won't be able to enjoy what's yet to see.

I have read the WB report and it is said that there are departments that lack knowledge and staffs that are skilled on climate policy, financing and institutions.

It's actually great to hear that the government is trying to prepare us for climate change. The thing is, they could actually do more than what they're doing now. If they would put the money of the people in good use then everything else will go smoothly.

Submitted by Evangeline Marie Otero on

Upon reading the World Bank Report, it is alarming to learn how our country will be immensely impacted by global climate change. In the report, negative effects range from agricultural and fishing industry risks, lack of food supply, landslides, flooding, droughts, and may even impact tourism.

While it is true that the Aquino administration has taken these global climate changes to heart and has been persistent in forming organizations such as Climate Change Commission (CCC), Cabinet Cluster on Climate Change (CCCC) and People’s Survival Fund Board (PSFB) as well as involving various government sectors and local government units; there is still a glaring opportunity to effectively implement designed climate change action plans. This is mainly attributed to the general scopes of responsibilities assigned to these organizations and vague alignments that relate each organization’s task and accountability. Apart from these indistinct lines of interdepartmental relationships, there is also a lack in technology, from a monitoring and evaluation perspective, that will help put climate change action plans to fruition. Furthermore, there is an evident lack in skilled personnel who would be able to employ these plans.

In this light, it is also important to consider the government funding with respect to climate appropriation. Due to lack of standardization, there is an opportunity to identify and streamline government budgets to climate-specific projects, activities and plans. And since, we are already experiencing the impacts of global climate change; bulk of the budget allocations target projects in relation to flood control and management, et al. Thus, sacrificing the development of the skilled personnel who are needed to effectively execute and assess progress or gaps in the climate action plans that have been put forward.

In summary, I believe that though the country is in the right direction in terms of addressing and mitigating global climate change; however, the road to achieve monumental successes is still far ahead. We have only scratched the surface of this environmental concern. To achieve further wins in this climate battle, I am in definite agreement with the recommendations that have been presented by the World Bank. Additionally, from a micro-level perspective, I believe that general public awareness to our current situation would be able to help encourage each citizen to do their part in preventing climate change and mitigating its impacts. Education and awareness is key, not only can it promote sustainable living in every Filipino household; it can also bring about a higher level of consciousness in every Filipino. Thus, each citizen is empowered with the full understanding that this problem does not rely solely on the shoulders of our government. And, that every one of us, should be part of the solution.

Getting a grip… on climate change in the Philippines. Retrieved from

Submitted by Maria Charisma Miranda on

Climate Change?

What we’re experiencing and happening to the Philippines is not merely in our country but all over the world. Earthquake, typhoons, floods, landslide, sinkholes and sea level rise are extreme events happening. Seasons changing from hot weather to cold weather vice versa, even its summer yet sometimes you experience rainfall. A little rain cause flood around Metro Manila. In provinces, if typhoon strike affected area would declare State of Calamity since infrastructure are broke down, crops and livelihood of the people are affected and damage. In news, if the weather forecast say a strong storm is coming we could feel the fears on what would this one bring to us like the previous Ondoy, Pedring, and Sendong etc. The good thing is people become aware and prepared.

It’s a good thing were taking part in the climate change issue. With the Climate Change Commission (CCC) goals and concept such as leading climate policy making and coordinating, monitoring and evaluation climate programs and action plans. But because of its wide area of responsibilities the CCC has not been able to divert enough resources to administer for the immediate action on climate change. According to the World Bank is that the CCC jointly responsible for several task with other agencies yet its effectiveness is limited by the lack of clear or formalized roles and relationships. And what is crucial is they might have all the methods or resources but its limited and theirs also limitation to each party. That’s why they have to clarify the relationship to ensure effective implementation.

One of the factors of climate change is the green gas emission. Although our country don’t have the biggest emission production yet we are participating to help. But is the Philippines ready to contribute to reduce global warming without affecting our goal to rise up in the industries and one of the developing country. If only greater effort is enforce in cutting down greenhouse gas emission especially in rich countries but cannot totally reduce it’s since their industries and economic growth will suffer. It’s hard to say because sometimes they are doing it in the name of development and prosperity but result in an opposite perspective that harm and affect Mother Nature.

Having enough knowledge and awareness we can address the issue of climate change. The need to participate would serve as a guide to understand the basic concepts and ideas, the cause and effect, relationships and human nature. And for the government, it’s all about leadership to develop a core capabilities to talk, to plan, to evaluate and strong implementation for a long term development.

Human intervention is never too late as long as we take part with it and help.

The WB exclusive report has given us a detailed and elaborate review and investigation on climate change in the Philippines and its exposure to the harsh environmental conditions that bring about major changes in all dimensions of society. And because of the extreme effects of climate change in the country, the review cited major threats on the country's environmental, social and structural growth. While governmental preventive and corrective actions are being taken such as the establishment of the Climate Change Commission and the National Climate Change Action Plan to deal with the present crisis, the review presents weaknesses in the implementation of procedures to effectively carry out the measures. The review also included pillars or recommendations as to how the Philippines can go about a successful implementation of the climate change adaptation and how social learning can bring a huge impact on the society's readiness for change.

Unfortunately, as much as social awareness and learning are promoted to Filipinos regarding climate change, the core of the problem is not cognitive but internal. Filipinos fail in terms of discipline. While naturally, the water level rises, the flooding in many areas of the country are mostly caused by human disposals. This can be perfectly attributed to unconstraint attitudes of the citizens concerning their laws. Also, the enforcement of the laws on care for the environment is weak. With these perpetual habits, nature will eventually take its toll. As I quote Ma.Glenda Wui in her book, Foundations of Behavioural Science 2003, she says that,
"Nature, and the imperatives of its laws, will be our most powerful teacher as we learn our way to a new society. "

Nature's vengeance can instil so much trauma, pain and sufferings for those who will be greatly affected. But no matter how painful, it will pave a way for change. A new society.
Constructively, when we talk about a new society, it does not mean that we destroy everything that is existing but rather we move forward into making it sustainable for all of us. As Filipinos experience growth in the many dimensions of society and as we pursue quality of life, we neglect to consider the values attached to it. Our self-seeking, short-sighted intentions to promote good living causes a humungous strain on our environment. The need to exhibit primary values such as justice, security and love for our resources are vital collective characteristics of a successful act of sustaining and preserving our environment. Practically speaking, we should think twice before throwing pieces of candy wrappers on the street, before we burn our garbage, before we cut trees, before we buy products in the grocery, before we build businesses, and before we make laws of our land. We should take an active part in adapting and sustaining our environment.

Submitted by Ma. Dominique Hernandez on

It is known that the Philippines, is vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Typhoons and landslides are the common climate-related threats that the country faces every year. To be honest, this is the first time I have heard of the Climate Change Commission (CCC) and I am glad that the government already took the initiative to establish this organization. However, one major concern here is that even if, let’s say the government already have had plans and budget for the policies or programs for these natural disaster threats, how well do we, the citizens adhere to this policies and programs? After all, the people are to blame why we are experiencing all these negative effects of climate change and not the government.

As an ordinary citizen, we need discipline and help each other to change the way we treat our environment. We have to help the government in implementing the rules on this matter of climate change. An example of this is to teach ourselves to throw our garbage in the right places and help preserve our natural resources. We can start by doing these simple things which will greatly help our surroundings.

Submitted by Miriam Park on

How We Adapt to Climate Change
We, the people of the world are the cause of global warming that produced climate change all over the world. We shouldn’t solely blame the government for all the tragedies we experience like heavy floods, landslides, earthquakes, and many more. These tragedies that occurred in our own country should make us reevaluate our own environment and find solutions.
But what are we, Filipinos doing to adapt to climate change?
I know that some Filipinos are stubborn and lack discipline that even some doesn’t follow simple signs as to where he should throw garbage. No, I am not saying this to insult fellow Filipinos but to open your eyes that even in this simple way, we can lessen the effect of climate change in our own country. .
Filipino citizens together with the government, factories, corporations, and mining community should join forces in saving Mother Nature. Granted, the government is doing a lot more effective campaigns since typhoon ‘ONDOY ‘regarding climate change. But, is it enough? We, as a normal citizen or even a citizen, who owns big corporation must also do his part on what the government has implemented for it to be fully efficient and maximized. We must also aware the people of the larger risk of climate change if we just neglect it now.

Submitted by Carlos Bryan Nolido on

A wake up call for Environmental Awareness

The World Bank article about Climate Change clearly highlights the ideas and challenges the society might face during this phenomena. The general effect of this let’s say in The Philippines is economically impacting especially in the tourism and trading industry. Imagine if 100 farmers are unable to harvest rice because the farm is flooded then this problem might affect the supply of rice in the entire nation, but what if there are more than 100 farmers out there who are affected by this? High demand – low supply = PRICE INCREASE. The result is = RALLY :-)

How are we adapting from Climate Change? Is this really an issue that is popularly known? or an issue that’s been rejected by many?
Let me start from myself, how I am adapting from climate change. I make sure that I am healthy, physically fit and environmentally friendly because there’s no way I can stop this situation so I’d rather prevent this from giving me negative impacts.

How am I protecting myself with regard to climate change? first is I have stored medicines inside my travelling bag and in times of sickness or even a simple headache I have something to take for prevention, then I have a bottled water all the time for rehydration lastly I have an umbrella so I can be protected from the heat of the sun and also to avoid heat stroke. This is how am I protecting myself from climate change.

With regard to the society I believe that we have different moves and practices as to how can we adapt to climate change. To be honest I don’t think people notice it, I think Filipinos are more concern about earning money for their families rather than dwelling on situations like climate change as what I’ve noticed so, in short PEOPLE DON’T CARE and this is the main reason why the Climate Change Commission of the Philippines is currently running it’s campaign for awareness. Prevention is better than cure that’s why they want us to be more conscious about climate change because if we get enough knowledge then it’s easier for us to adapt to any kinds of climate related hazards.

People are violent against Mother Nature. Illegal logging, oil Spills from factories that kills sea creatures and coral reefs, littering and many more. We’re just concerned about “what can we get” but we’re not aware of what would be the “effect in general” So, I admit during typhoons like the recent one, while I’m watching the news I can’t help but to blame the people who gets affected by flood and landslides all over the country. Many of them chose to stay even if the government is already advising them to vacate the place, but they opted to stay. The government on the other hand may do projects about this, but no matter how many projects are being implemented, no matter how big the budget is if there is no cooperation and awareness from people then I don’t think it’s possible for us to make a difference.

Like an autumn leaf that is dancing while falling to the ground reminds me that there’s no way we can stop “fall” from coming. If we don’t take responsibility and change our habits then nothing is going to be left for the upcoming generations.

Cooperation and awareness is the key to solve this.

Submitted by Hubert Abao on

Contributing to the foundation and ensuring the future for a low-carbon, climate resilient society through the Philippine Climate Public Expenditure and Institutional Review
Public Expenditure and Institutional Review
The document aims to consolidate the strategic direction of the National Climate Change Action Plan (NCCAP). The 2009 Climate Change Act of 2009 called for the formulation of a National Framework on Climate Change (NFCC), which defines the overall parameters for developing the NCCAP. Hence, the NCCAP is the lead policy document guiding the climate agenda at all levels of government from 2011-2028.

As far as I know, there is already an existing document, the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) under the Kyoto Protocol (KP) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) which addresses greenhouse gas emission reductions. The KP is a legally binding instrument that strengthens the UNFCCC. As far as I know, the CDM is one of the three market-based flexibility mechanisms under the KP. In fact in the Philippines, the DENR is the designated national authority (DNA) of the CDM.

My question is: How does this document relate to the CDM as far as addressing the climate change issues in the Philippines? This document does not explain its relation and relevance to the CDM.




Submitted by Allan Dumayas on

Unknown to some, a UN special envoy praised the Philippines for having the best climate change laws compared to the rest of the world. It's just so frustrating to know that even with these laws in place, the harmful effects of the occurring climate change due to excessive GHG emissions will take decades to reverse. We should have seen this problem coming since studies have been made in the 50's about the possible repercussions of man-made activities such as heavy industrialization.

Here in the Philippines, it's great to know that the current administration is serious about pursuing steps, setting plans and reforms to combat the effects of climate change. Unfortunately there seems to be a lack of coordination among private agencies and LGUs when they should be the ones disseminating the much needed and important information to the people under their jurisdiction. It should not get to the point where we realize how dangerous our environmental situation is until it's too late.

We may have very good laws –the best ones, in fact. But, laws are only as good as they are on paper and it won’t work if it is not being seriously followed and implemented properly. It's important to know that we should begin the change within ourselves by starting to listen and educating ourselves about this issue at hand.

Sources and References

1. Smith, T.
Is the Philippines’ climate law the best in the world?. (May 4, 2012). Retrieved from

2. NOW. Science & Health. The Political Climate. (April 22, 2005)
Retrieved from

Submitted by Ces Heidi Amihan Reine Sarmiento on

It is a good thing that our government is taking action in the adaptation on climate change. But I think that the foremost thing that should be done is to change our own mindset of how we view and value our own environment and learn how to adapt to it changes.
We Filipinos know in ourselves that we lack discipline considering our surroundings, doing things like throwing garbage in wrong places especially in rivers and canals. But I know we Filipinos could change this if they have the will.
If we Filipinos could just observe proper discipline and learn to love and take care of our surroundings as we treat our own house and backyard, then our environment will be clean and orderly, planting more trees and grasses, then the Philippines would have less damage caused by strong typhoons and other disasters.

Submitted by Allan Eduard E. Macalinao on

We, as a developing country, is highly vulnerable to the adverse impact of climate change. It has been manifested in the country in terms of weather disturbances including increased number of stronger typhoons, heavy flooding and other extreme weather events associated with climate change. These corresponding disasters have resulted to significant loss of human lives and huge amount of money due to destruction of properties including agriculture. Just recently, we have experienced unstoppable heavy rains over the Luzon area which resulted to heavy flooding in Metro Manila and the nearby provinces. While it is true that President Noy himself shares his concern about the disaster preparedness, we, the whole Filipino community, should be more responsible in facing the occurrence especially during rainy season. We should act now so we may not be able to face great obstacles. In our own little ways, let’s practically join small organization in our very own barangay about cleanliness and the ways to prevent pollution. Let’s look at our drainage systems, our waste management systems. We still can save our environment. It might be a long way, but we, more than anybody else, will benefit most with our little acts of concern. Proper discipline and the love for the Philippines should both be dealt by every Filipino. Let’s start cleaning our dear Pearl of the Orient.

Submitted by Contessa C. on

On my part, I can say that I am relieved to know that the Aquino administration is taking measures and actions for Filipinos to cope with the prevalent problem of climate change. This is a global issue since it does not only affects Filipinos but all of humanities and the whole of our world’s ecosystem, and our country’s participation in the global institutions involved in this awareness is a good sign that’ll we will find ways, through the cooperative efforts of global community, to cope up with this issue.
Taken from the report, it states that an autonomous agency has been put up and tasked to manage and evaluate the programs and action plans of the government relating to climate change. The agency also formulated the National Framework Strategy on Climate Change, National Climate Change Action Plan and guidelines for Local Climate Change Action Plan.
We are all aware of how our country’s archipelagic structure and position, being within the rim of Ring of Fire and Pacific Typhoon belt, made our country susceptible to major natural disasters, consequently, worsening the adverse effects of climate change towards us.
A similar report presented at Workshop on Climate Change and its Impact on Agriculture held in Seoul, in December, 2011 by Solatre and Baltazar stated that “The current climate trends shows that the Philippines like rest of the world has exhibited increasing temperature, and reduction in rainfall in most parts of the country will also be expected during the MAM (March April May) season. Extreme rainfall is projected to increase in Luzon and the Visayas, while a decreasing trend is projected in Mindanao.” This is all very true as from what I observed these last few months, all over the news.
The survey commissioned by World Bank concludes that majority of our countrymen are aware of the issue on climate change, and how its impacts brought negative effects to our lives. These may include reduced of crop productions or harvest as plants is heavily dependent on weather conditions. Damaged to properties and loss of lives brought by floodings caused us all aware how it can badly changed our world. This is a good sign for our government to continue it’s effort to implement laws regarding the issues, accordingly, people will be more cooperative. Let the people know that the government is doing all possible means for us to adapt with the situation. Also campaigns should be properly delivered to people. Educating people would be the best weapon to fight the climate change. Let them know that by simply planting one tree; proper waste disposal; turning off the lights when not use; using tabo instead of shower, and all such simple acts, they’re already doing their share of care for our Mother Earth.
The mentioned Php 1B fund should be properly distributed with the concern institutions and spent in a rightful manner and not within the authority of corrupt officials. I just hope that since Aquino is showing good signs in battling the rampant problem of corruption, the CCC agency is being staffed with right people to handle the task. I’ve seen lot of good projects right now, intended to battle the degrading condition of our planet, such as the no-plastic policy, I’ve seen how cooperative the store owners with this current ordinance in our barangay since they are obliged to pay Php 500 for each use of extra plastic bags for packing their merchandise (yeah right, we can drink soda without straw). A 500.00 pesos is already a harsh punishment for a small businessman. That is one small example of strict implementation of possible regulations the government can came up with. If one small barangay can put certain penalty to a small businesses, then be it in a national level that penalties should be imposed to big companies whose not showing concerns to our planet.
Though it is stated in the report of the World Bank on Climate Change that we are minor contributor to global warming, GHG emissions are projected to quadruple in the energy sector and double in the transport sector by 2030 due to its growing economy, urbanization and motorization, the earliest preparation on how to overcome this projection should be done.
Producers of harmful products that may emit greenhouse gases should be warned (or castigated) by the government and that they should come up with products less harmful in the most near future, or else, the product need to be banned.
Moreover, in these overall battle for climate change, since it has been observed that in the Philippines, the current agencies lacks knowledgeable staff and experts to look after this issue, government should encourage the youth to engage in this field of study. Government might as well offer scholarships for interested students who want to gain expertise in the said field. Seminars and trainings, and experimental studies, should be funded for exploring means of solving the climate issue problems. Many of our young people would be interested to be of help since it’ll be their generation (and their children) that’ll be taken care of.
It’s all a matter of discipline and exploring other possible resources.

Submitted by Shonalie Derit on

I remember how I was attentively doing my research paper about Climate Change on my high school senior time years ago and at the same time bothersome upon learning the facts and foreseen effects. From the sea level rise, melting ice bergs, heat waves to atmospheric holes etc., things I was personally unaware until I did the research paper. Perhaps those were also infamous among the masses during that time, year 2008.

It was just five years back. Upon reading this and the World Bank Report, I could certainly agree to the statement that a scientific mind is not needed to realize this occurrence. A research is not even necessary. Nowadays, the moment you come out of the door, climate change greets you. Not, however, with a wonderful welcome, but of either a scorching heat of the sun, floods from heavy rainfall or any form of drought. The unpredictable weather changes can be easily felt everywhere. The climate is not how it used to be, but it seems to be aggravating like a usual thing. Typhoons, flashfloods and erosions are recurrent every now and then. The impacts are obviously not negligible.

The government’s initiative to put up the Climate Change Commission (CCC) was commendable, even the foreword from the World Bank Report speaks so. However, the sad part as usual, was the ineffective implementation, budgetary constraints, insufficiency of equipments and many other concerns. Same problem arises, and we as vulnerable to all its effect due to our geographical location, extremely needs to follow the way forward as recommended on the WB article. We Filipinos can adapt, but not to the extent that we have to just let things be. It is to act now collectively or we expect even the worse cases of damages ahead. Being aware and not doing a thing is pure irresponsibility. Let us think of the next generations to suffer more from all of this.

Submitted by Darrence Villaluna on

I know this forum is about how we Filipinos are adopting to climate change, but I think looking at other models will allow us to see how others are coping up. And with it we would know what we should do as a nation.

I'm currently in Beijing on a business trip. Today I had the chance to travel around Beijing to get a glimpse of what Beijing could offer. But I'm not going to talk about the beauty of Beijing, what I want to talk about is how they are coping up with their pollution problem.

Travelling from Manila to Beijing will give you a culture shock, not because you may be the last person who doesn't understand the language, but because the climate in Beijing is far different from Manila. Just before we landed at the airport I got a chance to glimpse down and I saw how beautiful Beijing from above. I did not see the squatter colonies that you will normally see when your plane touchdown in NAIA. In Beijing there is none of those. However what really bothered me is the thick fog (smog?) that covered the whole of Beijing. That is just a glimpse of how big the pollution problem is in Beijing.

When I woke up this morning I saw the sun shining but not as bright as it is in Manila. It is caused by the thick smog that cloaks the city from the heat of the sun. You can even look directly at the sun and don't get the usual eye strain.

Beijing is an industrial city, and China is one of certified industrialized nations. Almost all of the electronic gadgets you will see and touch have the "Made in China" seal, albeit in part. China became an industrialized nation, but it seems to me that the efforts that they are doing to curtail the expected by-product of their success, smog, fog or whatever you call it, are not really enough to limit the emission of carbon dioxide at this time. Or are they getting there? Not sure. But how does Beijing (and China as a whole) cope up?

The government admitted about this issue and they realized that this could undermine social stability. And so, the government issued policies that would curb the pollution by restraining the industries that pollute the environment. They have imposed stricter penalties, they imposed other rules that may not be direct environmental policies, but policies that support the efforts to curb the pollution problem. This includes policy on transparency on environmental information, including coordination of government in different sectors or levels.

Meanwhile the citizens have to contend with wearing masks, especially for those who have lung problems. I read in one article that one school had to create a 'breathing dome' or 'pollution domes', practically a dome that is pressurized where sports activities are performed. At different levels the citizens are suffering.

Our government should look at where China went wrong, and what China is currently doing to make it right. China is a good case study for our government. They will need to look at the regulations, implementations and penalties that are currently imposed in China. The government needs to enact necessary laws that will ensure real growth in our economy, one that has lasting effect, and one that has the health of its citizens in mind.

Submitted by Jubil Re Geonzon on

The effects of climate change are alarming wherein we see the rise of the oceans. Some island nations are at risks especially when communities are at sea level. The Philippines is a tropical archipelago. Majority of densely populated area are situated in the coasts. Some are in the rivers as well. The first to feel the effects of climate change are from the coastal communities. Let us take the City of Manila as an example. Some places in the city are in the sea level or worse, below sea level. Drainage was such a nemesis of the city because there is no way out for the sewage. If ever rain would fall, there would be massive flooding in the city. Now due to climate change, storms became stronger. The effect of a super typhoon would bring in 25 ft wall of water or storm surge. (As seen in the picture above). This would mean that majority of City of Manila or perhaps the NCR would be flooded. Let us say that we experienced typhoon Ondoy in 2009. We experienced the Monsoon last year. As years go by, storms and monsoons are getting worse as well as the frequency of typhoons are increasing. We then experience that indeed, climate change is not just around the corner but is now in our doorsteps.

The Philippine Government had dealt with the problems that the climate change brought us. Since we cannot change what nature brings us, our way to combat it is through ourselves. The Climate Change Act of 2009 (Republic Act No. 9729)was made into law. With the implementation of the CCA, It made the possibility to create a body to deal with climate change which is the Climate Change Council.

In the LGU level, the CCA was in effect as well. I had noticed the effort in eradicating the use of plastics which hinders the sewage. If the President of the Philippines is the head of the CCC, LGU's shall do their part in their own jurisdictions as well. The funding of the People's Survival Fund shall be granted to the Baranggays to fully fund every baranggay hall equipment in response to disasters. On the part of the NGO's and Businesses, there will be a representative or body within the town or city to participate in the Climate Change Council in LGU level. This will further make more presence from private sectors to participate in accordance to the Climate Change Act.

We build our future from schools. In the CCA, Department of Education was included. The knowledge and awareness about Climate Change are now enculcated to each Filipinos. We all know that politicians, engineers, agriculturists, businessmen are not trained to deal climate change. There must be a specialization on dealing with such matter. How about a college course that will further enhance or train students that would specialize on vital roles to deal climate change. I heard that an engineering subject which is namely, Environmental Engineering. It is designed to the protection of the environment and the reduction of carbon footprints.

I should say that policies are there but how about the members of the council. Are they trained to be that? How about for the future. We shall sow our seeds that in the future we may produce innovators and a heart to strongly execute the wonders of this law. We must all remember that if nature turns against us, we can not do anything about it.

Submitted by Mara Del Castillo on

Climate change has affected the Philippines greatly. The weather is completely different from more than 10 years ago. Summers have become more humid and intensely hotter. Philippines is prone to typhoons and we really should be ready when these pass our country, but through the years, the intensity of the typhoons became heavier. Recently, even without typhoons within the Philippines’ area of responsibility, the monsoon brought heavier rains which caused floods all around Metro Manila and in different parts of the country. Agriculture has also been greatly affected because of these rains. Thus, our country needs to be ready with these circumstances, since climate change has really affected the country’s situation. I do hope the government would take action on this serious matter.

Submitted by Eduardo Rebamontan on

Because the Philippines is a developing country with a growing economy, part of that economic growth can be observed with the swelling number of cars currently on the roads of Metro Manila. In the past couple of decades it has swollen so much that imagine that the GHG daily traffic produces can now be seen as a dark layer of smog in the afternoon. Obviously, fossil fuel-based pollution is one of the climate change problems facing the Philippines today.

It might not be immediately apparent to every one of my countrymen, but lately there have been some trends that are for climate control. Bicycles are now a trend and many private groups and government programs aimed specifically for the promotion of bicycles as a means of transport, specifically an alternative for cars in everyday commute. There has been changes on some parts of Metro Manila, particularly in Markina and Quezon City which has now installed bike lanes. Lately, the city of Pasig has opened its public bicycle rental program to encourage citizen to take a bicycle to their destination as opposed to private or public transport. The MRT/LRT public rail transport now also allows folding bicycles to board their trains as part of a bimodal commute strategy for people who want to take bicycles to work.
Aside from alternative forms of transportation, many cities has now implemented the zero-plastic bag initiative in order to prevent flood-related calamities like Ondoy from happening. Although plastic bags may or may not directly affect the atmosphere by producing GHGs, plastic bags and other non-biodegradable substances contributed to flooding by clogging sewage systems which directly causes flooding.

These are a couple of measures the government and the private sectors have adopted to curve the deteriorating climate and fight its effects. However, climate change is not a localized phenomenon, it is a global concern. Climate Change measures will not do much good if the rest of the countries that are major users of fossil fuel and other GHG-emissive products don’t have the initiative or implement ways to deal with their local problems. We are all on the same Earth and breathing the same atmosphere, climate change is as much their problem as it is ours.

Submitted by Renz Quintos on

Climate change really felt by Filipinos these past few years. Typhoons and non-stop rains brought floods which devastated the urban areas, landslides on mountainsides, affecting business, and worst, killing people. Greenhouse gas emission, illegal logging, mining and fishing, are frequent cause of destroying our Mother Earth.

The societal modernization and the increasing energy demand, people tend to abused Mother Nature. One example is farmers here in our barangay, in Batangas. Before, they used horse to go to farm, and now replaced by motorcycles. Even elementary students going to school is accompanied by their parents using their motorcycles. Root crops turn into poultry farms. Small things but huge effect on ozone layer.

The government rose programs, like CCA (Climate Change Act, R.A. 9729), protecting climate system as its main goal. If the government continue establishing programs like this, focus saving on environment and not only corruption, pollution may be lessen, Mother Nature might be preserved. If only if?

Submitted by Danilo Toquero Tierra on

Climate Change : The New Normal

The normal pattern in the weather system of the globe has shifted abnormally. This shift have created massive destruction to the lives and properties of the people. The once normal condition which people of the globe were used to, have been greeted by surprises brought by the new normal, which seems to be destructible.
Since the shift is already in our midst, human cannot but to shift and adapt to the new normal. Human by nature have this innate ability to adapt to any change that is coming its way just to maintain its co-existence with nature.

Human intelligence dictates that any foreboding events ,will yield man’s imaginative ways to combat any threat to him/her. Human will eventually creates systems and methods to cushion the impact of the burgeoning effect of the new normal, which the climate change would bring.

As the famous scientist Albert Einstein says, “Necessity is the mother of all inventions”. I believe that we have in the crossroad wherein nature is challenging man’s ability. And it is for us humans to stand up and face this challenge squarely.


Submitted by Ana Liza Furukawa on

Adapting climate change is not a hard thing to do for me, but understanding on why it is happening is a big question, a question that has to be answered right away not just of me, but also of the people of the rest of the world.
Climate change is the result of our irresponsible acts. Floods have devastated our country many times that caused deaths, health risks and destroyed our houses. It affected our food and water supplies, infrastructure and transportation systems. Although the people are now getting aware of the impact, there are still many things to address to avoid the consequences of climate change. Government and citizens should work hard together. To give enough education to the people about climate change on how it will affect us is what we should focus more. The government has to develop the strategies and the “climate reform agenda” on transforming the climate policies.
Filipinos nowadays are getting aware and responding to the needs of preventing climate change. In fact some local governments have implemented an environmental friendly ordinance. Plastic bags are not allowed in some supermarkets and wet markets. Styrofoam or cellophane is not allowed to bring at school (this I believe is also mandated by DEPED). Segregation of garbage is being implemented as well in public and private establishments. Every household’s waste are also encouraged to be segregated. However, waste recycling plant is still a major issue. Funds on setting up recycle plants are still in need of better planning.
And of course an individual’s participation and involvement in helping and preserving the environment is a must. We can help by doing small things like bringing your own eco-bags, buying environmental friendly products, planting of plants in a pot or trees at your own backyards, biodegradable composting, and proper disposal of garbage. Small things that is not difficult to do, small efforts that matters a lot.
Our government’s reform on strengthening and planning the budget for the climate change will surely help to avoid consequences of climate change. But all of these will be senseless if we still continue to aggravate our environment. We cannot only depend on our government to make them think of the remedies on this problem, we need to give our share on preventing it as well. Discipline and cooperation are what we need. We should work on this together.

Submitted by Charmaine Principe on

Climate change has been an on-going problem of the society. It just happened that here in the Philippines, because of the budget, lack of knowledge and initiation this has resulted to severe damage in the country. Even monsoon now can flood areas in the Philippines that are known to be flood-prone zones. The government as of now is still working on unfinished projects that can probably resolve the issue but because they are so much busy with other admin issue’s that they have to freeze the project. We might also be able to help as an individual but still we never take these things seriously because we’re mostly involved on other issues than help the environment in generating solutions to help preserve and minimize environmental problems. The observation released by World Bank only entails how our government do not treat this kind of issue with high importance. It’s a good thing they we’re able to identify ways on how to improve the situation and recommended ways to help the country’s situation. Since climate change can be a threat to human existence this is a major issue needed additional attention by the government and groups of private individual who initiate movements for environmental concerns.

Submitted by Lynlee Jabadan on

The current event that is happening is a proof of how climate change affects us directly. It is given that government should come up with effective strategy to cope up with climate change. But it will not be successful if we, as a part of community will not participate in implementing these strategies. I believe that it all should start from within us. We should have the initiative to change for the better. If we start following what is being implemented and be discipline enough to do what is right, then our place will be a safe and secure place to live in. I also believe that calamities and disaster that we are experiencing right now which also causes a enormous damage not only with our people property, not to mention the number of lives it took, and its impact to the economy, all started by destroying our environment. As a part of the community I believe that it should from me. I will be responsible with my actions toward the environment. I will participate and be a part of the program the community is implementing. I also believe that it all start at home.


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