A joint study by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the United Nations Children’s Fund has listed the Philippines as one of the most hazard-prone countries for children, exposing them to high risks that threaten their rights, according to a new landscape analysis.
Their joint report, Climate Landscape Analysis for Children in the Philippines, highlights risks posed by climate shocks to children’s rights to health, nutrition, education, water, sanitation, protection, and a safe environment.
By 2050, nearly all children are expected to experience at least five annual heatwaves, raising the risk of heatstroke, dehydration, and preterm births, the report said.
More typhoons and shifting rainfall patterns are also likely to trigger outbreaks of dengue, malaria, and other diseases.
Up to 98% of agricultural losses from climate shocks have also reduced food supplies, forcing families to rely on unhealthy processed foods and worsening hunger and malnutrition.
By 2040, up to 80% of the Philippines’ water supply may be at risk, making it one of the most water-stressed countries. Typhoons and other disasters continue to damage water infrastructure, increasing the likelihood of disease outbreaks.
The study further noted that climate change heightens risks of violence, exploitation, poverty, and strained social support systems, trapping vulnerable households in persistent hardship.
Children in vulnerable groups face the greatest risks, particularly in Palawan, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Quezon, Maguindanao del Sur and Norte, Sulu, and the special geographic areas of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, where frequent climate hazards and weak infrastructure deepen their vulnerability.
While the Philippines has strong national policies for climate and disaster risk reduction, the study found that children’s needs are still not fully prioritized in climate action.
“The climate crisis is, at its heart, a child rights crisis. We must rapidly increase investments in climate-resilient health, education, water, nutrition, and protection services to make the Philippine National Adaptation Plan work for children. UNICEF stands ready to partner with government and all stakeholders to ensure a just, inclusive, and sustainable future for every child in this climate-changed planet,” UNICEF Philippines representative Kyungsun Kim said.
“The DENR acknowledges the importance of empowering children and youth to participate in climate action. We must ensure their voices are heard and their perspectives are integrated into decision-making processes,” DENR Secretary Raphael Lotilla said.
