Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda on Friday, May 3 urged the Marcos administration to heed the United Nation’s declaration of a global warming.
However, Legarda said she believes it shouldn’t just be the national government that should pay attention to the warning, but the whole international community as well.
“As the global temperature rises to unprecedented levels, it is imperative that we confront the stark reality of our changing climate. The recent report of Metro Manila hitting an all-time high record of 45°C heat index is not just a local anomaly; it is a glaring symptom of a planet in crisis. The warning signs have been evident for years, but now we are truly facing the era of ‘global boiling,’ as aptly termed by the United Nations,” Legarda said in a statement.
“The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated. The UN Secretary-General's declaration in 2023 marked a pivotal moment in our collective understanding of climate change. We are no longer merely experiencing global warming; we are witnessing a planet that is boiling over with the consequences of our actions. The extreme heatwaves, intensified storms, and rising sea levels are clear indicators that we must act swiftly and decisively,” she said.
A staunch advocate against climate change, Legarda said it is crucial for all people to recognize the interconnectedness of one’s actions and their global impact.
She reiterated that the responsibility to address climate change falls on all nations, but particularly on the world's most developed countries.
“They hold significant influence and resources to implement meaningful change and curb global emissions,” Legarda pointed out.
“As a senator deeply concerned about the welfare of our nation and the world, I urge for immediate action on both local and international levels. We must prioritize sustainable practices, invest in renewable energy sources, water security, sustainable and circular livelihoods, and enact policies that mitigate and adapt to climate change's devastating effects,” she stressed.
“Furthermore, we must support initiatives that aim to adapt and build resilience in vulnerable communities,” the lawmaker added.
Legarda said she believes “global boiling” is not just an environmental issue, but is a matter of social justice, economic stability, and global security.
“The time for rhetoric and half-measures has passed. We must come together, united in purpose, to address the greatest challenge of our time: safeguarding the future of our planet for generations to come,” she stressed.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa), on Friday, warned that the heat index in Dagupan City and Pangasinan and Aparri in Cagayan are expected to experience the highest today at 47 degree Celsius.
Pagasa also cited that 28 other areas are also expected to experience a dangerous heat index, and this includes, Roxas City in Capiz, Laoag City in Ilocos Norte, Iba in Zambales, Cuyo town in Palawan, Virac City in Catanduanes, Pili in Camarines Sur and Zamboanga City.
Metro Manila and Pasay City is also expected to have a heat index of 41 degree Celsius while Quezon City is also set to have a 40 degree celsius.