Philippines seeks deeper climate policy cooperation with ASEAN
THE PHILIPPINES will push for deeper regional coordination on climate policy as Southeast Asian governments move to align economic, energy and resilience strategies, according to President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.
Speaking at the opening session of the inaugural Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Climate Week 2026, Mr. Marcos said the region’s exposure to intensifying storms, sea-level rise and drought underscore the need for collective action, adding that cooperation within the bloc can help countries address shared risks more effectively.
“Confronting these challenges is our shared responsibility and ASEAN has shown that through cooperation, we can overcome common problems with our collective purpose and resolve,” he said.
The Climate Change Commission (CCC) pushed for an integrated, whole-of-system approach to ensure long-term resilience and economic stability.
Vice-Chairperson Robert EA. Borje said the region faces a widening gap between widespread climate exposure and largely national-level responses, raising the need for more synchronized policy frameworks.
“The Philippines approaches this challenge with the recognition that climate risks, economic stability, and energy systems across ASEAN are increasingly interconnected. At the same time, responses remain largely national in scope,” he said in a statement.
“This gap — between shared exposure and fragmented control — underscores the need for more integrated and coordinated approaches.”
Mr. Borje said that maintaining climate ambition while ensuring resilience and stability requires aligning each priority within a coherent system that supports long-term development.
The ASEAN Climate Week, held from April 27 to May 1, is set to advance technical cooperation, including policy dialogues and training programs aimed at strengthening the implementation of Nationally Determined Contributions, as member states prepare for tighter climate commitments and increased scrutiny over delivery.
Meanwhile, Mr. Marcos issued Memorandum Circular No. 117, ordering the playing of “Lupang Hinirang” and the ASEAN 2026 “One Vision, One Ocean” during flag ceremonies and other official events “to foster patriotism, strengthen regional solidarity and amplify the Philippines’ leadership and vision as ASEAN Chair.”
The order also aims to instill national identity, unity and pride among Filipinos, all national government agencies and educational institutions, both public and private.
ASEAN SUMMIT PREPARATIONS
In a separate development, Cebu is prepared for the 48th ASEAN Leaders’ Summit, according to a statement from the Presidential Communications Office (PCO).
Mr. Marcos will join his fellow heads of state on May 7 and 8.
Cebu Governor Pamela S. Baricuatro said the province is all set to host the leaders and their delegations.
Security preparations are already 80% complete, with enhanced emergency response systems and hospitals on code blue alert throughout the summit.
The PCO said delegations from 11 ASEAN member states are expected to be concentrated in Lapu-Lapu City.
Nagiel B. Bañacia, head of the Lapu-Lapu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, said preparations have been underway since December.
Road closures will be limited to convoy movements and will be reopened immediately, he said.
Cebu City Mayor Nestor D. Archival ensured traffic management plans are in place, with no whole day road closures.
“We are ready if adjustments are needed,” he said.
Mandaue City Mayor Thadeo Z. Ouano, Jr. noted ongoing infrastructure projects, including road asphalting, improved street lighting and solar installations along key transit routes. — Chloe Mari A. Hufana
