In a significant move to combat climate change, the Philippines and Japan have pledged to deepen their environmental collaboration. This commitment was highlighted during the opening of the 2nd Philippine-Japan Environment Week, where Department of Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga emphasized the importance of their partnership in tackling shared environmental issues. The event, attended by Japan’s Environment Minister Kobayashi Fumiaki and Ambassador Endo Kazuya, showcased the strong bilateral ties aimed at fostering sustainable development and regional stability.
Secretary Loyzaga outlined several key areas for cooperation, including climate change adaptation and mitigation, pollution control, clean energy initiatives, and improving water accessibility. These topics are set to be explored in depth over the three-day event, with a focus on finding practical solutions to the environmental challenges both nations face.
The Philippines is actively working to enhance its climate action efforts, with initiatives like reforestation, the development of multi-purpose water facilities, and investments in both green and gray infrastructure. Additionally, the country is improving its systems for monitoring, reporting, and verification to participate more effectively in carbon markets.
Loyzaga also discussed ongoing projects aimed at disaster risk reduction, air quality improvement, and integrated water resource management. Over 200 water projects are currently underway to enhance water supply for underserved communities and bolster water security for agricultural and industrial sectors.
The Philippines is also advancing a circular economy by strengthening compliance with extended producers’ responsibility, particularly in managing plastic pollution and marine litter. Efforts to ban hazardous chemicals such as lead in paints, asbestos, and mercury-containing products are also underway.
As an archipelagic nation, the Philippines shares similar challenges and opportunities with Japan in managing ocean resources. Plans to establish marine science stations across the country’s marine biogeographic areas were announced, aiming to boost scientific research and sustainable ocean management.
On the front of biodiversity conservation, the DENR is fully committed to implementing the global biodiversity framework, focusing on reducing biodiversity loss, restoring ecosystems, and protecting indigenous and local communities. Secretary Loyzaga stressed the importance of an ecosystem-based approach to manage and monitor the health of terrestrial, coastal, and marine ecosystems, which is crucial for sustainable development.