COP29 and beyond: Forging Philippines’ path to environmental stewardship

The Philippines finds itself at a crossroads in its fight against climate change, all while dealing with shifts in its internal political landscape.

Our country’s chairing of the Loss and Damage Fund Board at COP29 represents more than just a national achievement; it is a crucial opportunity to reassess our approaches to environmental governance and sustainable development.

The impact of climate change is becoming increasingly apparent as we face prolonged droughts debilitating agriculture, rising sea levels threatening communities and intense typhoons wreaking havoc on urban infrastructure.

These challenges extend beyond mere concerns; they present serious risks to our food security, public health, and social stability. The consequences of inaction, both human and economic, worsen with each passing year.

The emphasis on climate finance at COP29 is particularly important for the Philippines at this moment. As a nation consistently regarded as most vulnerable to disasters under the World Risk Report since 2022, our leadership role in overseeing the Loss and Damage Fund Board holds meaning beyond financial management.

It signifies our responsibility to advocate for nations vulnerable to climate change, ensuring that aid reaches communities requiring assistance for rehabilitation and fortification against such disasters.

As we move closer to the 2025 mid-term elections, striving for effective political leadership domestically to complement our international participation in environmental governance remains crucially important now more than ever. The use of the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) framework serves as a tool for assessing the actions and future promises of our political representatives.

The environmental component of ESG goes beyond surface-level efforts. It requires leaders who grasp the complex link between protecting the environment and driving economic growth. Striking the crucial balance between advancing renewable energy adoption and sustainable urban development, while promoting climate-resilient farming practices.

Equally important is the need to tackle climate justice by ensuring that environmental policies do not prejudice