DOJ opinion: Global fund needs more action

Department of Justice Facebook page

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Justice (DOJ) said the government needs to secure national legislation or a treaty to confer privileges and immunities relating to the Loss and Damage Fund (LDF), a multinational financial mechanism to address climate change events beyond the abilities of nation-states.

READ: Loss and Damage Fund is top agenda in climate change meet — DENR chief

Details of the fund have not been finalized because it was just established last year, but the Philippines has been named to its inaugural board.

In a 10-page legal opinion, however, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said the LDF Board was not among the agencies listed under the 1947 Convention that extends privileges and immunities to the United Nations and its agencies, their officials and staff.

Remulla said further legislation or a treaty would be needed to address legal questions. —Jane Bautista