Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan met with Climate Change Commission (CCC) Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje on June 9 to discuss key priorities at the intersection of climate action and sustainable development.
The meeting focused on advancing the country’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), the Philippines’ commitment under the Paris Agreement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance climate resilience. Secretary Balisacan and Vice Chairperson Borje exchanged views on strategies to accelerate NDC implementation across critical sectors and ensure stronger alignment of national development policies with climate goals.
Both officials emphasized the need to integrate climate action into economic planning and policymaking to support long-term, inclusive, and sustainable growth. They underscored the importance of strengthening collaboration among government agencies, development partners, the private sector, and other stakeholders to effectively address climate risks while creating opportunities for economic transformation.
The discussion also highlighted the role of climate-responsive policies in building resilience against environmental and economic challenges, protecting vulnerable communities, and fostering green and future-ready industries.
Secretary Balisacan reaffirmed DEPDev’s commitment to mainstreaming climate considerations in development planning, while Vice Chairperson Borje emphasized the CCC’s continuing efforts to coordinate whole-of-government approaches toward achieving the country’s climate commitments.
Also present during the meeting were DEPDev Undersecretary Rosemarie G. Edillon, Assistant Secretary Reynaldo R. Cancio, CCC Deputy Executive Director Atty. Romel Antonio Cuenca, and other officials from both agencies.
The engagement reflects the continued commitment of DEPDev and the Climate Change Commission to work together in advancing a resilient, low-carbon, and inclusive future for all Filipinos.
