The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has launched a workshop to complete the Philippines’ full phase-out of ozone-depleting hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) by 2030.
Organized with UNIDO, the event kicks off Stage III of the country’s global commitment under the Montreal Protocol. After hitting a 67.5 percent reduction target in 2025, the plan will guide industries like refrigeration and firefighting toward safer alternatives that also cut greenhouse gas emissions.
Separately, DENR is tracking this week’s ninth meeting of the UN Loss and Damage Fund Board, which will finalize rules to deliver climate aid to vulnerable countries. The Philippines has proposed a project to support recovery in high-risk Catanduanes and Sarangani provinces from 2027 to 2032.
The agency also reported strong results for its new DENR Express mobile permit service, launched in April 2026. In its first two months, it served 5,713 clients nationwide and issued 1,565 clearances. Processing times for key documents have dropped sharply—for example, Pollution Control Officer accreditation now takes 2 days instead of 14—cutting costs and delays for small businesses and local governments.
