President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has instructed state agencies to aggressively prioritize climate change initiatives, emphasizing that the crisis is an immediate threat actively impacting the lives of millions of Filipinos.
The directive follows recent reports indicating that several government bodies failed to act on policy recommendations submitted by the Climate Change Commission (CCC).
Addressing the issue, Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro assured that the administration will ensure all agencies take proactive measures to help the public better understand and prepare for extreme climate impacts, such as intensified monsoon rains and severe flooding.
“Hindi na po mangyayari iyan dahil pagtutuunan po ng pansin ang isyu patungkol sa climate change,” Castro stated.
The President’s order coincides with widespread flooding across Metro Manila and Central Luzon caused by continuous torrential rainfall driven by the enhanced southwest monsoon.
Responding to concerns raised by the CCC regarding non-responsive state offices, Castro confirmed she will coordinate directly with the commission to identify unacted proposals and bring them to the President’s attention for immediate intervention.
“Hindi na po ito parang subject sa ating Science na pinag-uusapan lamang dahil nandito na po. Realidad na po ito,” Castro added.