The Climate Change Commission (CCC) said the integration of gender in climate action strengthens the resilience of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) against the threat of climate change.
The CCC during a recent workshop and networking event led discussions that focused on the intersection of gender and climate change, particularly on equipping women-led enterprises with the capacity to adapt to climate challenges.
CCC Commissioner Rachel Anne S. Herrera presented the Nationally Determined Contribution Gender Action Plan (NDC GAP) as a framework to support gender-responsive and inclusive approaches in achieving the country’s NDC targets—which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 75 percent by 2030.
She noted that the agricultural, waste, industry, transport and energy sectors are traditionally considered male-dominated in terms of labor composition, especially for those in senior-level management. Women, however, can thrive not just as skilled workers but as industry leaders when given the opportunity.
Herrera cited the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) as a guide for achieving climate-resilient businesses.
“With livelihoods and infrastructure as key focus areas of NAP, MSMEs, which comprise 99 percent of businesses in the Philippines, need to be equipped with the capacity to invest in climate-resilient infrastructure, technology, and adaptation measures,” Herrera said.
She outlined two key initiatives, which will be supported under the TRANSCEND Project being implemented by the CCC and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), with support from the German Government, to help MSMEs become climate-smart and resilient.
“The development of a Climate-Smart Industry Roadmap will guide MSMEs in enhancing energy efficiency and climate resilience,” she said.
“Another key initiative is providing direct support to small-scale manufacturing and food processing enterprises to build their capacity for energy-efficient operations, alongside policy support at the national level,” she added.
Undersecretary Blesila Lantayona of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Regional Operations Group recognized women as powerful agents of change, capable of building sustainable communities.
“I stand with you to affirm the Department of Trade and Industry’s unwavering dedication to this cause, alongside the broader efforts of the Philippines to champion climate resilience,” she said.
Rhoda Castro-Caliwara, president of the Women’s Business Council Philippines Inc. (WomenBizPH), said climate change directly impacts the business sector. She noted that extreme weather events, such as scorching heat, floods, and earthquakes, increase costs and disrupt operations. CCC News