The highly anticipated inaugural Manila Bulletin Sustainability Focus Session is set to bring together an impressive lineup of thought leaders from the energy and real estate sectors. This event will center around critical issues surrounding sustainability and explore initiatives and insights aimed at achieving a shared vision for a green-centric future.
An event highlight is the presence of Makati City Mayor Mar-Len Abigail "Abby" Binay, who will grace the occasion as a special guest speaker to add a significant dimension to the discussions, contributing her perspective on sustainable urban development.
What makes her an important figure in the ‘green-centric future’ dialogue in the Philippines?
Abby Binay was elected Mayor of Makati in 2016, following a nine-year service as the Representative of the 2nd District of Makati in Congress. Since becoming mayor, she has led the city’s transformation into a smart city, embracing technology to enhance every community aspect. Her leadership has been impactful in establishing the city as a model of urban resilience, sustainability, and innovation.
She focuses on reducing emissions, promoting disaster preparedness, and creating livable spaces for her constituents. Under her leadership, Makati City has become an example of what future cities should aim to be—sustainable, adaptable, and forward-thinking.
One of her most notable commitments is to the global Cities Race to Resilience initiative. This campaign rallies leadership and support from cities, regions, businesses, and investors to help vulnerable communities build resilience and adapt to the impacts of climate change.
Her dedication to this cause has earned her town the distinction of being recognized by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction as the first-ever resilience hub in Southeast Asia, a significant milestone in climate action.
It is also evident that her influence extends far beyond the borders of the area of her leadership and the Philippines. The Makati City mayor actively participates in global forums on sustainability, cementing her as a key voice in international climate conversations. She has been consistent in highlighting the urgency of climate change and the need for collaborative solutions, encouraging leaders to remain open to expert advice and new ideas.
One such moment of international recognition came at the Climate Change Conference of Parties (COP28) in Dubai. During her speech on the pivotal role of women in addressing climate change, she received a standing ovation—underscoring her growing prominence on the global stage. Her advocacy for gender equality and climate action has positioned her as a leading figure in local and international movements.
Notably, she has also served on the COP28 Advisory Committee as the sole representative from the Philippines and Southeast Asia, having accepted the invitation from COP28 President-designate Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber.
Additionally, her leadership roles extend to global organizations such as ICLEI - Local Governments for Sustainability, where she is a global executive committee member, and the Cities Climate Finance Leadership Alliance, where she serves as the city ambassador for Asia. She holds board positions with the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy for Southeast Asia, UCLG ASPAC, and CityNet.
Mayor Binay's extensive experience and commitment to urban sustainability will be an invaluable addition to the conversations at the 2024 Manila Bulletin Sustainability Focus Session. Her forward-thinking vision for cities aligns with the event’s goals of shaping greener, more resilient urban environments for future generations.
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn more from Mayor Abby Binay about her initiatives and efforts to create a better future for Makati City and beyond. Join us on September 24, 2024, at 9 a.m. at the Dr. Robert C. Sy Grand Ballroom, Blessed Buenaventura Garcia Paredes, O.P. Building, UST, Manila.