The Philippines has warned against “a critical juncture” that the world currently stands on as it keeps on failing to address the threats of climate change.
Ahead of the 27th Session of the Conference of the Parties (COP27) in Egypt, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) released a statement Saturday reaffirming the Philippines’ commitment to take care of the environment.
Meanwhile, it also called on all other countries to stop “inaction and empathy” as it is “time to translate our words into concrete action.”
For DFA Secretary Enrique Manaloc, it is “imperative” for the Philippines, being a state party to the Paris Agreement, to actively participate in COP27.
He added it is also important for the Philippines to engage in such a dialogue, considering it is one of the most disaster-prone countries in the world that is bearing the brunt of climate change despite contributing only less than one percent of the total global gas emission.
Saying the world is at a critical juncture, Manalo believed there is still “a chance to work together and make a difference for current and future generations.”
“At COP27, we should transcend our differences and draw strength from our common humanity and interests by uniting for actions to address the adverse effects of climate change,” he said.
“The Philippines conveys its deep appreciation to the UN and the Egyptian government's outstanding work for COP27. The Philippines is strongly committed to the success of this endeavor,” he added.