PH ratification of climate pact a boost to vulnerable nations – green groups
This file photo, taken in Paris last year, of figurines trying to prop up a deflated globe, illustrates the task that lies ahead of the more than 190 countries convened for the annual UN climate talks in Marrakech, Morocco. —AFP
Environmental groups on Monday welcomed the announcement of President Rodrigo Duterte that he will uphold the historic Paris Agreement on climate change.
The Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities (ICSC) said Duterte’s approval of the ratification of the Paris climate pact would give vulnerable countries a much needed boost.
“The global community will definitely welcome the ratification of the Paris Climate Agreement by the Philippines. Now it’s time to get down to the business of getting a fair deal and stronger climate action from negotiations in Morocco,” ICSC executive director Renato Redentor Constantino said in a statement.
Duterte on Monday said he will uphold the Paris accord following a unanimous vote from the members of his Cabinet.
The President earlier said the government would not honor the Paris agreement as it would only limit the country’s industrial growth, calling it “stupid” and “absurd.” The international treaty was signed by countries that participated in the 21st Conference of Parties in France last year, including the Philippines.
ICSC said climate action “will spur economy-wide job creation as urban services, food supply, roads and highways, sea ports and coastal infrastructure are upgraded to make them more resilient to expected climate change impacts.”
“In addition, investments in renewable energy and related services in modern energy infrastructure will also increase economic activities along with corresponding job prospects,” the group added.
The Climate Reality Project Philippines also thanked Duterte for not leaving the climate negotiating table.
“You assured that the voices of vulnerable peoples will always be heard. We shall continue to be the conscience of the global community in addressing the climate crisis and to demand climate justice. While we continue to engage, we shall take climate action even outside the negotiating halls towards resilient and sustainable communities,” said Climate Reality Philippines national manager Rodne Galicha.
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