Pasig city: Stakeholders call for more integrated tie-ups to address the impact of climate change and to put up more climate-resilient infrastructure that will provide not only immediate relief but also a long-term impact.
According to Philippines News Agency, Dr. Annabelle Sinlao, assistant professor at the Manila Central University's College of Medicine, highlighted during a panel discussion at the Eco-Business forum in Pasig City that the majority of government funding for climate change is centered on disaster preparedness. This focus is understandable given the country's vulnerability to typhoons, floods, and other climate events. However, she noted that a better investment strategy would involve channeling funds into long-term climate change-resilient facilities.
In the healthcare sector, Dr. Sinlao suggested the promotion of clean energy in hospitals through solar energy, reducing medical waste, and implementing community-based preventive garbage measures to mitigate flooding risks and environmental impacts. She emphasized the importance of integrating efforts with the private sector and communities to ensure that funds benefit both immediate relief projects and long-term resilience for people and the planet.
Dr. Alfredo Mahar Lagmay, executive director of the University of the Philippines Resilience Institute and director of UP's Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards (NOAH) Center, echoed Dr. Sinlao's sentiments. He acknowledged the government's efforts to address nationwide flooding but criticized the focus on physical structures over more effective mitigation and control measures.
Lagmay pointed out the need for updated hazard assessment maps that include climate change scenarios, as part of the national climate change adaptation plan. He urged stakeholders to rethink their approach to climate change funding, emphasizing that even small scientific contributions can accumulate into significant impacts.
In response to inquiries about engaging government agencies on these issues, Lagmay mentioned that some lawmakers have consulted him for advice on climate change mitigation measures. He advocated for a third-party check-and-balance system to oversee the implementation of flood control projects, ensuring accountability and effectiveness.
