The Philippines and New Zealand have taken a significant step in strengthening their climate change collaboration by signing a joint declaration on 19 November, committing to the goals of the Paris Agreement and the transition to a low-emissions economy.
The declaration was signed by Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga in Quezon City and New Zealand’s Minister for Climate Change Simon Watts at the ongoing COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan.
Both nations reaffirmed their shared commitment to building climate-resilient communities while accelerating economic growth in a sustainable manner. “Our government and New Zealand’s are united by a common purpose: to drive economic recovery while ensuring long-term environmental sustainability,” said Secretary Loyzaga.
The agreement sets a roadmap for an 18-month partnership focused on innovation, sustainable development, job creation, and investment opportunities. Key priorities include aligning financial flows with low-emission and climate-resilient development, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and fostering private sector engagement.
The declaration also emphasizes carbon pricing and the elimination of harmful subsidies to limit global temperature rise, highlighting the moral imperative of climate action. The collaboration marks a significant follow-up to New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s visit to Manila in April and earlier technical discussions between climate change officials.
This strengthened partnership underscores the importance of international cooperation in addressing the urgent challenges posed by climate change.
