The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) reported significant progress in forest restoration, water management, and environmental governance in 2025, as the Philippines faced increasingly severe and unpredictable weather.
Secretary Raphael Lotilla said the initiatives align with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen climate resilience amid rising risks of flooding and water stress.
Lotilla noted that even without tropical cyclones, several areas endured heavy rainfall and severe flooding.
Metro Manila, including Quezon City, recorded 134.2 millimeters of rain in a single day on August 30, nearly equal to a week’s rainfall. In Cebu, Typhoon Tino brought 183 millimeters in two days—about one and a half months’ worth of precipitation.
“These conditions show that we are dealing with extraordinary challenges that demand extraordinary responses, not only from government but from the whole of society,” Lotilla said.