By Katrina Gracia Consebido
The administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. renewed its call for climate justice and accountability from developed countries to take action to address global climate change.
This was through Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla’s speech at the United Nations Human Rights Council’s (UNHCR)’s regular Universal Periodic Review (UPR) in Geneva on Wednesday, Nov. 16.
“The Philippines reiterates its call for climate justice – for developed countries to increase financing for mitigation, adaptation and loss and damage for developing countries. We expect nothing less from our friends and partners that have been the beacon of human rights and justice the world over,” Remulla stressed.
“Environmental rights defenders are partners in promoting climate goals, and their freedom and safety should certainly be protected. But let us not lose sight of the bigger issue, which is, that all countries must faithfully and urgently fulfill their international obligations on climate action,” he added.
In his speech at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) CEO Summit in Bangkok on Thursday, the chief executive said there is a need for stronger climate action as he mentioned the Philippines renewable energy plan.
“The Conference of the Parties to the UNFCCC (COP 27) is in full swing, but stronger climate action is required. As the energy demands of the modern global economy continue to expand rapidly, diversification into renewables and other sources is imperative,” he said.
Earlier, during his participation at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York last September, Marcos called for stronger cooperation on climate change.
He also asked industrialized countries to lead by example by providing climate change financing and technology transfer, as he noted that “those who are least responsible suffer the most.” -ag
