Department of Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Juan Miguel “Mitch” T. Cuna has called on the international community to overhaul global environmental governance, cut institutional fragmentation, and guarantee developing nations get the resources they need to meet global environmental commitments. Speaking at the High-Level Political Dialogue on Renewing Environmental Multilateralism during the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York, Cuna said global agreements must shift from broad promises to tangible results. The dialogue was convened by Panama and Vanuatu to strengthen international cooperation amid shifting geopolitics and growing strain on global institutions.
Cuna told delegates that developing countries now face heavy operational demands from overlapping global mandates on climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution—yet these responsibilities rarely come with fair access to climate funding, technology sharing, or capacity support. “Renewal should focus not only on new commitments, but on making the existing system easier to implement: reducing duplication, improving coordination, and directing more resources to delivery at the national level,” he stated.
On the upcoming global plastic pollution treaty, Cuna said the legally binding agreement must cover plastics from design through disposal, including hazardous chemicals, waste management, and dedicated financing. He urged a framework that sets high standards while remaining workable for countries with limited resources. Cuna also cited the International Court of Justice’s advisory opinion on climate duties as important legal clarity, but stressed that legal principles must be backed by real funding and institutional strength to protect communities most at risk.
He further called for stronger cross-border and cross-agency teamwork to fight environmental harm and criminal activity, including closer cooperation among environment agencies, customs, law enforcement, and financial bodies under the UN Convention against Transnational Organized Crime to stop illegal logging, mining, wildlife trafficking, and illegal waste shipments. The dialogue supports wider UN reforms under the Pact for the Future and UN 80 Initiative, which aim to streamline reporting, cut duplication, and advance action through flexible partnerships. For the Philippines, participation at UNGA 81 ensures global rules reflect national realities, builds cross-border enforcement ties, and unlocks support to protect vulnerable ecosystems and communities.
