Climate change-resilient community to rise in Siargao

MANILA, Philippines -  A model community will soon rise on Siargao Island in Surigao del Norte to serve as a concrete example of how is it to be a climate change-resilient community, and help local governments understand the importance of knowing what climate change is all about.

The agreement for the establishment of the community to be called Ecotown was signed recently by Climate Change Commission (CCC) vice chairperson Mary Ann Lucille Sering, Surigao del Norte Gov. Sol Matugas and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Caraga regional director Nerio Casil.

The CCC has underscored the value of incorporating climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction and management in the policy planning and delivery of public services of local government units.

Mayors in Surigao del Norte welcomed the establishment of the Ecotown in the municipality of Del Carmen as it would provide livelihood to the local folk and also enhance the protection of their environment.             

“The Ecotown is the embodiment of the National Climate Change Action Plan as implemented in the local level. Adaptation is a practical and moral imperative as the adverse impacts of climate change are increasing,” Sering said.

“It is clear that our climate is changing and therefore must we. We must strengthen our ability to adapt to climate change since adaptation is a common investment for our common future. The establishment of the Ecotown will enable communities to be climate-resilient (and) economically and ecologically stable,” she added.

On the other hand, Matugas cited the need for local leaders, particularly in the barangays, to understand climate change and what they can do about it to protect their communities.

Initially, a vulnerability assessment of Del Carmen town will be conducted to determine climate change impact on the community, and its environment and socio-economic development. A livelihood component is also being worked out with the BFAR.