The Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF), in partnership with the New Zealand Embassy, convened key stakeholders for the second State of Climate Change Forum at the Makati Diamond Residences. This year’s event, themed “Advancing Private Sector Engagement and the National Adaptation Plan,” emphasized the importance of collaboration between the private sector, government, and civil society to address climate change in the Philippines.
Keynote speaker, Climate Change Commission (CCC) vice chairperson and executive director, Secretary Robert E.A. Borje, stressed the critical role of the private sector in accelerating climate action. He called for turning adaptation plans into actionable solutions, highlighting that private sector involvement is essential for building a climate-resilient future.
The forum also celebrated the strengthened partnership between the Philippines and New Zealand in combating climate challenges. New Zealand’s Climate Change Ambassador, H.E. Stuart Horne, reaffirmed his country’s commitment to supporting the Philippines through innovation and sustainable development, marking a deeper collaboration between the two nations with the signing of a Joint Declaration on Climate Change Cooperation in November 2024.
A panel discussion on the role of business in climate action featured leaders such as Ambassador Horne, Secretary Borje, and Cecile Ang from San Miguel Corp. They discussed the growing role of the private sector in climate adaptation and resilience, highlighting successful corporate initiatives aimed at building sustainable practices and protecting vulnerable communities.
The event concluded with a reaffirmation of PDRF’s commitment to continue fostering partnerships to accelerate climate resilience efforts. “By working together,” said PDRF chief resilience officer Guillermo M. Luz, “we can create lasting solutions that safeguard vulnerable communities and secure a sustainable future for the Philippines.”
The forum underscored the urgent need for sustained, collaborative efforts to tackle climate change, with the private sector poised to play a pivotal role in shaping a resilient, sustainable future.
