The Climate Change Commission (CCC) has partnered with Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to strengthen the implementation of climate resilience and low-carbon development programs in Metro Manila through an exploratory meeting.

“Held at the MMDA Central Office, the meeting brought together the agencies’ leaders to strengthen institutional coordination on climate resilience and low-carbon urban development,” based on the issued statement of CCC

The agency identifies Metro Manila as highly exposed to “flooding, sea level rise, and urban heat.”

In line with this, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje acknowledges the role of MMDA in disaster management and response in Metro Manila.

“We recognize MMDA’s central role in managing drainage systems, flood control facilities, transport networks, solid waste operations, and disaster response mechanisms that are increasingly affected by climate change,” he said through the issued-statement of CCC

Hence, the CCC advocates adopting a “systemic and climate risk-informed approach to planning and governance”.

To reinforce the protection of vulnerable communities and infrastructures, the CCC noted the importance of establishing the climate-smart metro framework, which includes:

• Adaptation
• Mitigation
• Disaster risk reduction 
• Sustainable urban development

It is also important to be aligned with two foundational climate policies - the Nationally Determined Contribution and  National Adaptation Plan (NAP) 2023 - 2050, which is known as the “country’s long-term blueprint for climate resilience.”

The joint efforts of CCC and MMDA aim to bolster regional protection against natural disasters and make it more climate resilient.

“Through strengthened coordination, the CCC and MMDA aim to advance a whole-of-metro approach that safeguards communities, protects critical infrastructure, and positions Metro Manila toward a more resilient and climate-smart future,” the CCC said