MANILA – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) of the Philippines has unveiled a new Gender Action Plan (GAP) as part of its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) for 2024-2030, integrating gender-responsive strategies into climate action across multiple sectors.
According to Philippines News Agency, the GAP, supported by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and Agence Française de Développement (AFD), aims to incorporate gender considerations into the Philippines’ commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 75% and increase renewable energy use to 35% by 2030, and 50% by 2040. The plan targets critical areas such as agriculture, energy, waste management, industry, and transportation.
ADB Director General for the Southeast Asia Regional Department, Winfried Wicklein, emphasized the importance of integrating gender equality in climate strategies during the GAP’s launch event at the ADB Office in Mandaluyong City. “While evidence shows that women are disproportionately affected by disasters and climate change impacts, they have limited opportunities to participate in the decisions that affect them or to lead climate responses,” Wicklein stated.
The GAP aims to ensure that women are less adversely affected by climate change, and that financial assistance for climate action is equitably distributed, prioritizing the most vulnerable. It also seeks to secure economic gains, improved security, and resilience more equitably across all communities.
Environment Secretary and CCC representative, Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga, outlined the plan’s objectives, stating, “Our Gender Action Plan resolves that greenhouse gas reduction efforts will ensure women are less disproportionately impacted by climate change; financial assistance will be equitably distributed and prioritize those most vulnerable; and finally, economic gains, improved security, and resilience will be enjoyed more equitably across all communities.”
France, through its feminist foreign policy, has also played a significant role in supporting the Philippines’ climate and gender initiatives. French Ambassador Marie Fontanel highlighted France’s commitment to advancing gender equality and climate action. “Climate change is a cornerstone of French diplomacy, and we are equally committed to advancing gender equality. This is why France proudly supports the Philippines’ NDC GAP by providing technical assistance to the CCC through AFD,” Fontanel said.
In March 2024, the AFD signed a grant financing agreement with the CCC to provide 255,000 euros (PHP15.9 million) to support the implementation of the NDC GAP, which includes establishing a Gender and Climate Change Advisory Group, developing customized gender guidelines, and enhancing capacity building and development in gender and climate change adaptation and mitigation.
CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje expressed optimism about the plan’s potential impact. “With this plan in place, we look forward to seeing more women equipped with the tools and knowledge to make informed decisions, access resources, and take timely climate action in their communities,” Borje noted.
The plan has garnered support from various sectors, with key departments affirming their commitment to oversee its progress and implementation, ensuring a collaborative approach to addressing climate change while promoting gender equality.