The National Youth Commission (NYC) on Monday, June 21, called for the passage of the Climate Change Education Act, which seeks to integrate climate change education in the science curriculum of Grade 2 to Grade 11 or senior high school, in both public and private schools.

NYC said the bill will further equip young people with the capacity to play an essential role in climate change adaptation and mitigation in their communities.

"This bill gives recognition to the struggles of climate advocates, both in the private and public sector, for a holistic and inclusive approach in fighting climate change. This measure will ensure that all our efforts today will bear fruit and will benefit the next generation," NYC Commissioner Paul Pangilinan said.

Pangilinan also highlighted the need for an inclusive strategy that includes out-of-school and Indigenous youth.

He also stressed the need for rights-based and gender-responsive climate education, noting that climate change and disasters also "increase inequalities and further aggravate their impacts."

"We are happy that our leaders see the importance of raising climate change awareness among young people through education. We hope that this measure will also take a look at how young Filipinos outside the formal education system can also meaningfully participate and make their contribution," Pangilinan added.