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Manila Bulletin devider Business devider The Economy devider Philippines urges 'whole-of-nation plus' push as 2030 UN SDG deadline nears

Philippines urges 'whole-of-nation plus' push as 2030 UN SDG deadline nears

Published Aug 30, 2025 03:36 pm
With just five years left to meet the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) is urging a reinforced “whole-of-nation plus” strategy to fast-track the Philippines’ pursuit of the 2030 Agenda.
During the national presentation of the 2025 voluntary national review (VNR) last Wednesday, Aug. 27, DEPDev Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan underscored the importance of continued and inclusive collaboration among national and local governments, civil society, the private sector, academe, and development partners to institutionalize initiatives and achieve key SDG targets in the country.
“As we chart the path ahead, let us remember that the VNR at the national level and voluntary local reviews at the subnational level are not the endpoints, but calls to action—urging the government, civil society, private sector, academia, and development partners, to redouble our efforts, innovate boldly, and work inclusively toward the 2030 Agenda,” Balisacan said.
“This shared commitment... will drive our collective vision of a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient Philippines,” the DEPDev chief said.
Adopted in 2015, the SDGs set out 17 global goals that act as a roadmap for eradicating poverty, safeguarding the planet, and advancing peace and prosperity.
The 2030 Agenda emphasizes the need for coordinated efforts that harmonize economic development, social advancement, and environmental sustainability, DEPDev noted.
According to the latest VNR report, the Philippines has achieved notable progress in multiple SDGs, including SDG 1 (No Poverty), 2 (Zero Hunger), 4 (Quality Education), 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), 14 (Life Below Water), and 15 (Life on Land).
DEPDev said these achievements demonstrate the Philippines’ capacity to tackle complex development issues and its dedication to ensuring that no one is left behind.
Nevertheless, DEPDev conceded that challenges persist, especially in SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), highlighting the urgent need to improve healthcare services.
Advancement in SDG 5 (Gender Equality) still requires acceleration, particularly in ending child marriage and boosting women’s representation in leadership positions, DEPDev said.
Climate change and economic disparities remain major challenges to achieving sustainable development, DEPDev added.
DEPDev stressed that tackling these challenges requires a strong “whole-of-nation plus” approach, focusing on health and gender programs, education, digital and inclusive growth, climate and economic resilience, and innovative, data-driven solutions to speed up SDG progress.
DEPDev said the 2025 VNR offers an in-depth review of the Philippines’ SDG progress using 2024 data. It outlines measures implemented following the commitments under the third VNR in 2024 and underscores advancements in statistical systems that support evidence-based interventions.
“The VNR is more than a report; it is our evolving story of progress, resilience, and innovation in advancing the SDGs,” Balisacan said.
At the event, DEPDev introduced the stakeholder partnership accelerator for convergence and engagement (SPACE) web application, a digital platform designed to centralize coordination, information sharing, resource mobilization, and SDG tracking.
“The SPACE web application is a powerful tool that streamlines collaboration, and accelerates progress on our shared goals. It brings together stakeholders in a unified platform to drive SDG action more effectively,” said Balisacan.
(Ricardo M. Austria)
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