Manila:The Philippines, despite its minimal contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions, is highly vulnerable to climate-related disasters and has committed to deeper emissions cuts. This commitment aims to advance climate justice and secure greater international support ahead of the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31).
According to Philippines News agency, the country's updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) was submitted to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change ahead of COP31, scheduled in Antalya, Türkiye, from November 9 to 20. The NDC represents the latest version of the Philippines' climate action plan, which parties to the Paris Agreement are expected to submit every five years.
The Climate Change Commission (CCC), the government's lead policy-making body on climate change, presented the 2026 NDC during a ceremony in Malacañang. The plan highlights the country's commitment to a 75-percent net greenhouse gas emissions reduction and/or avoidance target from 2025 to 2035, compared to projected cumulative business-as-usual emissions. Of this target, 7 percent is unconditional and will be pursued through domestic resources and efforts, while the remaining 68 percent is conditional on international support.
The updated climate commitments build upon the country's 2021 NDC, which also set a 75-percent emissions reduction target but allocated a larger 72.29 percent to measures conditional on international support. CCC Executive Director Robert Borje emphasized that the target underscores the Philippines' commitment to cutting emissions while providing international partners a concrete basis to support climate action in the country. He noted that the NDC serves as a framework for action rather than just a statement of ambition.
The CCC stated that the 2026 NDC expands sectoral coverage, incorporates updated science and data, and includes 211 policies and measures. It aims to mobilize financing, technology, and capacity-building support for implementation. Developed through 253 engagements, the NDC involved technical meetings, workshops, and consultations with government agencies, development partners, civil society, the private sector, and academia.
The NDC's priorities include enhancing infrastructure resilience, protecting ecosystems, improving public health, and promoting gender equality, disability, and social inclusion. It also focuses on a just transition to a rights-based, people-centered framework, recognizes the critical role of local governments, and emphasizes opportunities for youth in employment, skills development, and leadership. Furthermore, it seeks to maximize mitigation and adaptation benefits through nature-based solutions and the circular economy, contributing to global sustainable development goals.
The CCC highlighted that implementing the plan will require coordination, investment, institutional capacity, and monitoring mechanisms to track emissions reductions and improvements in climate resilience.
