The lead government agency in charge of fighting climate change called on all sectors to step up efforts to restore damaged ecosystems and protect critical habitats.
The Climate change Commission (CCC) said last week investing in biodiversity bolsters climate adaptation and fosters economic resilience for communities reliant on these natural resources.
“As our ecosystems face unprecedented threats, we must focus on restoring and preserving our natural habitats. Addressing the vulnerabilities of our ecosystems is crucial to ensure sustainable development and safeguard communities from the impacts of climate change,” said Secretary Robert E.A. Borje, vice chairperson and executive director of the CCC.
Borje said collaboration among government agencies, local communities and stakeholders was vital to implement effective science-based strategies that would safeguard our ecosystems for future generations.
The Philippines’ National Adaptation Plan (NAP) prioritizes the need to rehabilitate and restore critical ecosystems, such as mangroves, coral reefs and coastal areas, which act as natural buffers against climate impacts.
Through the managed realignment of coastlines and ecosystem restoration, the Philippines can protect these areas while enhancing biodiversity.
One of the most immediate impacts of climate change is the intensification of severe weather events that lead to habitat deterioration and ecosystem disruption.
The NAP said extreme events including stronger tropical cyclones, droughts and floods degrade various habitats, threatening the species that depend on them.
Chronic changes, such as rising temperatures and sea levels, further jeopardize biodiversity and disturb the ecological balance.
In addition, decades of poor management, deforestation, urbanization and pollution have accelerated the degradation of Philippine ecosystems.
Vital areas such as mangroves, coral reefs and forests, which are essential for both biodiversity and local communities, are under severe threat.
Climate change worsens these pressures, with stronger storms, rising seas, and changing rainfall patterns causing waterlogging, landslides and habitat destruction.
The NAP also outlines strategies such as the Ridge-to-Reef Approach and Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) to protect biodiversity and sustain ecosystem services. In addition, eco-certification programs encourage businesses to adopt sustainable practices that promote habitat protection and pollution reduction, which help build ecosystem resilience.
“As we strive for sustainable development, the growing threat of climate change to habitats demands urgent attention. We must maintain biodiversity and its habitats while safeguarding ecosystem services by identifying priority areas, assessing vulnerabilities, and implementing timely interventions. This will ensure that natural systems continue to provide clean air, water, and food, while also enhancing community resilience,” Borje said.
Protected habitats, thriving ecosystems, and climate resilience are interconnected. Through nature-based solutions, ecosystem restoration and strengthened climate policies, the country can preserve its rich biodiversity and safeguard habitats against the growing threats posed by climate change.
The United Nations designated the first Monday of October as World Habitat Day to reflect on the state of our habitats and the basic right of all to adequate shelter. CCC News
