COTABATO―The Climate Change Commission (CCC), the lead policy-making body on climate change, is focusing on the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) to strengthen climate resilience across the country.
The CCC shared key updates on the implementation of the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) during a recent Study Group Session organized by the United Nations International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Cotabato City.
The Philippines’ NAP, a key document for long-term climate adaptation planning, was developed under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
The session focused on localizing the NAP in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). It noted the region’s unique challenges and opportunities in integrating climate adaptation strategies into local policies and development plans.
Recognizing BARMM’s distinct socio-political landscape and heightened exposure to climate hazards, the CCC emphasized the importance of embedding the NAP into BARMM’s regional development framework.
The efforts include conducting risk assessments tailored to the region’s distinct geographical, socio-economic and political characteristics.
“We are committed to support BARMM in translating national adaptation strategies into localized programs and projects that cater to the specific needs of our communities,” said CCC vice chairperson and executive director Robert E.A. Borje.
To further align national climate policies with local action, the CCC assists BARMM’s local government units (LGUs) in the development of their Local Climate Change Action Plans (LCCAPs), which serve as critical tools to identify and implement climate adaptation and resilience measures.
Currently, 62.4 percent of BARMM’s LGUs have submitted their LCCAPs. The CCC aims for 100 percent submission by 2025 and focuses on enhancing the capacities of the remaining 37.6 percent LGUs through technical support and capacity-building initiatives.
To ensure efficient allocation of financial resources for climate adaptation and mitigation, the CCC introduced Climate Change Expenditure Tagging (CCET) system to drive transparency in tracking climate investments and promote accountability in climate action.
In BARMM, 42 out of 125 BARMM LGUs have submitted their Annual Investment Plans (AIPs) and Quality Assurance Reports (QARs) for FY 2023. The CCC urged the remaining LGUs to engage in the CCET process to better align their financial plans with national climate priorities. CCC News
“We will translate the NAP into tangible actions with measurable results. By prioritizing the submission of LCCAPs and engaging in the CCET process, BARMM can significantly contribute to the nation’s collective capacity to confront and overcome climate challenges, ultimately building a more resilient future for all Filipinos,” Borje said.
