Pasay city: The Philippines has renewed its call for climate justice, advocating for enhanced support and expedited access to the Loss and Damage Fund for climate-vulnerable nations. This push was highlighted during the opening of the two-day 7th Meeting of the Board of the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage (FRLD), hosted by the Philippines.

According to Philippines News Agency, Department of Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Raphael Lotilla, speaking on behalf of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., urged the international community to increase financial contributions to the fund. 'The Philippines stands in solidarity with all climate-vulnerable nations whose survival and resilience depend on the effectiveness of this Fund,' Lotilla stated.

Lotilla emphasized that the fund's current levels of capitalization are insufficient, citing global estimates of USD200 billion to USD400 billion annually in loss and damage by 2030, whereas the fund currently holds only a fraction of this requirement. He stressed the importance of the fund's ability to deliver resources efficiently to countries most affected by climate change.

He also highlighted the necessity to prioritize the operationalization of the Barbados Implementation Modalities, making access to the fund's resources simpler and more timely for developing nations with limited capacity. Lotilla called for a long-term resource mobilization strategy to ensure the fund's stability and sustainability.

FRLD Co-Chair Richard Sherman expressed gratitude for the Philippines' leadership and support for the fund's mission. He acknowledged the clear direction provided by the Philippines for the fund's future.

At the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York, the Philippines co-organized a high-level event with the FRLD to build financial and political momentum for the fund's capitalization. Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro urged nations to support the fund, stressing the global economic challenge posed by climate impacts.

The Philippines, as a representative of the Asia-Pacific Group on the FRLD Board, is committed to helping make the fund fully operational and effective. Lotilla reaffirmed this commitment, urging the board to ensure that the Manila meeting results in a fund that is adequately resourced and impactful.