Charting the path toward a climate-resilient Philippines

The Philippines continues to be among the most climate-vulnerable countries in the world. It is at the top of the Global Climate Risk Index and is regarded as the most vulnerable in the World Risk Index 2024.

The nation confronts growing dangers from severe weather occurrences that jeopardize lives, ecosystems and livelihoods.

Given that 74% of the population faces climate-related threats, the need for impactful policies and effective leadership is urgent. As the 2025 midterm elections approach, the question remains: will we elect leaders capable of addressing these pressing challenges?

According to the latest Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey commissioned by the Stratbase Group, public satisfaction with the national administration on specific issues highlights disaster response as a top priority.

Helping victims of disasters received the highest net satisfaction rating at +65, while preparedness for strong typhoons ranked lower at +34. Meanwhile, ensuring food security stood at +46, and efforts to prepare for problems caused by climate change saw a modest increase to +34. These numbers indicate that while the public recognizes government initiatives, there is still significant room for improvement in fostering long-term climate resilience strategies.

For the third year in a row, the Philippines has been recognized as the nation most at risk of extreme natural disasters, with a score of 46.91% in the 2024 World Risk Index.

These disasters are associated with climate change caused by fossil fuel emissions, which persist in obstructing economic growth, social progress, and the overall welfare of individuals. These environmental concerns highlight the need for effective leadership and revolutionary policies that emphasize environmental sustainability and climate responsibility.

The past year underscores the urgency of our climate situation. The World Meteorological Organization reports that 2024 is the hottest year documented, worsening 26 of 29 major global weather incidents and displacing millions.

On a local level, the lack of awareness regarding climate risks worsens the situation. While 71% of Filipinos recognize climate change as a direct threat to their families, a September 2023 Pulse Asia survey revealed that only 11% report having extensive knowledge about the topic. This gap emphasizes the need for enhanced climate education and communication strategies to connect awareness with action.

The Philippines holds a distinctive role in leading significant climate initiatives. As a leader in the Loss and Damage Fund Board, the country plays a critical role in ensuring transparent governance and equitable distribution of resources to climate-vulnerable nations.

However, financial mechanisms alone are not enough. Enhancing disaster readiness and focusing on long-term resilience approaches, like shifting to sustainable energy, are essential for reducing climate threats and promoting economic stability.

The public’s overwhelming support for renewable energy is a promising sign of this potential for action. According to the same survey, 85% of Filipinos advocate for increased use of solar, wind, and hydropower.

A sustainable energy system is critical to meeting the nation’s growing demands while reducing its environmental footprint. Similarly, responsible mining practices are vital to supporting renewable energy development, ensuring sustainable resource extraction with minimal environmental harm and aggressive rehabilitation of impacted areas.

As the nation advances toward cleaner energy options, it is just as crucial to implement sustainable resource management methods. This shift aligns with wider legislative and policy initiatives focused on sustainability, including the Extended Producer Responsibility Act, the Circular Economy bill, and the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act.

These measures emphasize sustainable resource use and waste reduction, promoting responsible production and consumption. The proposed Circular Economy bill, for instance, seeks to extend the lifecycle of products, minimize waste, and encourage recycling and responsible disposal.

By mandating industries to adopt circular economy practices, this legislation reinforces environmental accountability. However, the success of these initiatives depends on transparent governance and strict implementation.

Encouraging investments in renewable energy and sustainability initiatives remains crucial in ensuring energy security and long-term economic resilience. Policy reforms supporting clean energy projects, infrastructure development, and incentives for businesses transitioning to greener alternatives play a vital role in advancing these efforts.

The Philippines’ potential for growth in the renewable energy sector has been recognized globally, with international reports ranking the country among the most attractive emerging markets for renewable energy investments.

To drive these initiatives forward, strategic collaboration among government agencies, civil society, and private stakeholders is essential to amplifying their impact.

In support of this, the Philippine Business for Environmental Stewardship (PBEST) and the Climate Reality Project Philippines are hosting a roundtable discussion, "Building Resilient Communities through Environmental Accountability and Transparent Governance," on Feb. 12, 2025, at the AIM Conference Center in Makati City. This event will bring together experts from various sectors to tackle climate resilience challenges, sustainable consumption, and opportunities within the circular economy.

As the nation approaches the 2025 elections, citizens should select leaders who prioritize sustainable practices and environmental stewardship. Electing representatives who will promote sustainable policies, endorse responsible mining, advocate for a circular economy, and strive for national food security is essential.

Selecting leaders committed to these efforts allows us to make meaningful progress toward a more sustainable and resilient Philippines.

Good governance is inseparable from effective climate action. It is important that government leaders rise above political divisions and focus on human security and ecosystems, and the future of the Philippines. By working together, we can create a nation where economic growth and environmental sustainability go hand in hand.

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Joanna “Joey” Perfecto is the Program and Research Manager for Advocacy of Stratbase Institute and concurrent Secretary-General, Philippine Business for Environmental Stewardship (PBEST).