Bill proposes PH refuge to foreign residents of drowning islands

A BILL has been filed in the House of Representatives proposing that the Philippines offer a new home for climate refugees or foreigners from island states that are threatened by rising sea levels.

Among those who introduced House Bill No. 10490 which amends Section 47 of the Philippine Immigration Act of 1940 are Reps. Edcel Lagman (Albay), Robert Ace Barbers (Surigao del Norte), Zia Alonto Adiong (Lanao del Sur), Pablo John Garcia (Cebu), and Samuel Verzosa (PL, Tutok to Win).

The authors said the measure is a humanitarian response towards addressing the critical issue of climate-induced migration, noting the emerging international crisis of migration for populations of low-lying island nations who are at risk of losing their homes due to rising sea levels and severe weather.

“This legislative action seeks to establish protections for environmental migrants, particularly those from Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in the Pacific, who are disproportionately affected by the adverse impacts of climate change,” the lawmakers said.

The bill seeks to amend Section 47 of the Philippine Immigration Act by including a new paragraph giving the President authority “to admit foreign nationals who are environmental migrants seeking protection from climate change-related harms.”

“As a nation that has historically opened its doors to refugees, we must recognize and respond to the new challenges posed by climate change,” Rep. Adiong said.

Citing research from the Intercontinental Panel on Climate Change, the lawmakers underscored the urgency of the issue due to imminent threats to habitability, safety, and human dignity in SIDS.

Through the proposed amendment, House members are hoping to facilitate a dignified and legally sound approach to assisting those forced to leave their countries due to environmental changes.

“This legislation is a testament to our commitment to upholding human rights and our international responsibility,” said Rep. Versoza. “It is a proactive measure that not only addresses the immediate needs of climate refugees but also sets a precedent for global responses to similar crises.”

The bill’s authors said the Philippines, with its own experiences of