Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Maria Antonia “Toni” Yulo-Loyzaga has called for an inclusive multilateralism to address the global challenges posed by climate change.
At the Fourth Board Meeting of the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage, held on Monday, Dec. 2, at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), she underscored the critical need for unified action, citing the unique challenges faced by climate-vulnerable countries such as the Philippines.
“We cannot stress enough the need for a multilateralism that is vibrant, strong, and inclusive,” Loyzaga said.
She described multilateralism as the “only viable platform” for addressing transcendent challenges, adding that the Philippines is committed to advancing this approach.
The DENR chief highlighted the Philippines’ firsthand experience with climate risks, pointing to an unprecedented series of six extreme weather events between October and November this year.
The Philippines, she said, is a “living laboratory for current and future risks” and a test case for the impact of the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage.
“Our cumulative loss and the devastation can serve as a baseline, not only of what climate-vulnerable developing countries will endure in these uncertain and unpredictable times, but also of our capacity to recover, given adequate and timely access to the right resources,” said Loyzaga.
The meeting comes as the Fund reaches a critical stage in its establishment. Loyzaga outlined recent developments that have positioned the Philippines as a key player in the Fund’s operationalization.
On Aug. 28, President Marcos signed Republic Act No. 12019, granting juridical personality and legal capacity to the Fund’s Board. This was followed by the signing of the Host Country Agreement during COP29 in Baku on November 12, which formalized the privileges and immunities needed for the Board to operate in the Philippines.
“These developments reflect the progress we have collectively made in ensuring that the Fund is prepared to deliver on its urgent mandate,” she noted.
Urgency, responsibility
As the host of the Board and one of the most climate-vulnerable nations, Loyzaga said the Philippines acknowledges the urgency of translating frameworks into tangible actions.
She expressed the country’s commitment to ensuring that the Fund remains accessible, equitable, and impactful, especially for those who need it most.
“Hosting the Board is a responsibility we take very seriously,” she said, adding that the country is deeply invested in the Fund’s mission of cooperation and solidarity.
Moving forward
The meeting, which runs until Dec. 5, focuses on refining the Fund’s operational systems, enhancing governance mechanisms, and ensuring financial resources are directed effectively.
Loyzaga underscored the importance of adopting a bottom-up, country-led approach to loss and damage responses, which she said is essential for the integrity of the Fund and the millions of lives it aims to impact.