House calls for stronger action on climate change

MANILA, Philippines — The House of Representatives has called for stronger action on climate change mitigation and environmental sustainability.

In the final plenary session of the 18th Congress before adjournment sine die last Wednesday afternoon, congressmen decided to adopt a resolution seeking more measures to address the climate crisis through a whole-of-government approach toward enhancing climate justice and disaster resilience.

House Resolution 2605, authored by Deputy Speaker and senator-elect Loren Legarda, calls on developed countries to deliver on their financing commitments as well as to do their fair share in improving climate justice and the environment.

“I hope that we continue to give more teeth to our 10 landmark environmental laws for effective and efficient implementation, so we will be ensured a climate-resilient, sustainable, green and regenerative economy that will be fair and just to all the vulnerable populations of our country,” Legarda said in her privilege speech.

The resolution, entitled “Expressing the Sense of the House of Representatives for Climate Justice, Strengthened Implementation of the Philippines Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability Laws, and for the Developed Countries to Deliver on Their Commitments,” also calls for the urgent and effective implementation of the country’s environment and climate change laws, projects and programs and supports the establishment of an accountability mechanism for climate change and a specific Loss and Damage Fund.

The measure further calls for an enabling policy environment to transition the country toward sustainability and climate resilience and strengthen the government’s actions in achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement. 

“In 2020, the global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the atmosphere reached record high with carbon dioxide levels surging to 413.2 parts per million (ppm), or 149 percent higher than the pre-industrial level.

Methane and nitrous oxide rose by 262 percent and 123 percent, respectively, compared to their levels in 1750,” the resolution read.

It warned how climate change threatens food security in the Philippines, citing 2020 data showing moderate or severe prevalence of food insecurity here stood at 62.1 percent, more than double the global rate of 25.5 percent.

Filipinos who are at risk of hunger may increase by 1.4 million in 2030 and 2.5 million in 2050.The resolution called on government agencies to ensure agricultural resilience by improving the ability of agricultural systems and food producers.

Lastly, it urged the government to build climate-resilient communities and ecosystems.