CCC Deputy Executive Director Romell Antonio Cuenca, Mathias Kruse, Deputy Head of Mission of the Federal Republic of Germany, Inka Gnittke, Deputy Director General of BMUV, DOST Secretary Renato Solidum, and Dr. Marcelino Villafuerte II, Deputy Administrator for Research and Development of PAGASA) attend the marker unveiling for the South-South Collaboration Center of Excellence on Climate Information Services.
MANILA — The Climate Change Commission (CCC) emphasized the role of information-driven climate action in addressing the urgent challenges of climate change at the recent unveiling of the South-South Collaboration Center of Excellence (COE) on Climate Information Services (CIS) at the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) Central Office in Quezon City.
The COE aims to strengthen transdisciplinary exchange and enhance the availability and accessibility of CIS across key sectors. The unveiling also included the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the German Development Cooperation (GIZ) and the ASEAN University Network, formalizing a joint commitment to advancing CIS initiatives across the region.
Supported by GIZ, the South-South Collaboration on Climate Information Services (SSCIS) Project aims to use CIS to enhance climate knowledge and improve decision-making for effective adaptation and mitigation planning. Last year, high-level stakeholders from the implementing agencies reviewed the SSCIS Project Implementation and Status, emphasizing the CCC’s role as the lead implementer of activities as part of the project’s Technical Working Group.
In his keynote, CCC Deputy Executive Director Romell Cuenca lauded the establishment of the Center of Excellence as a vital platform for addressing climate risks.
“This Center embodies our shared vision of transforming data into actionable knowledge that empowers communities and drives evidence-based solutions. Through collaboration and innovation, we can address the impacts of climate change with resilience and foresight,” Cuenca said.
He also emphasized the value of partnerships in building climate-smart solutions, acknowledging the GIZ’s contributions.
“The success of the South-South Collaboration on Climate Information Services Project showcases the power of partnerships. Leveraging science, research, and global best practices from similarly vulnerable nations, we can craft solutions tailored to our unique needs.”
Cuenca further stressed the importance of climate information in driving effective adaptation strategies. “The CIS are more than just tools; they are lifelines. They guide us in understanding risks, anticipating threats, and formulating proactive responses that strengthen resilience at all levels.”
Dr. Marcelino Villafuerte, Deputy Administrator for Research and Development at DOST-PAGASA, emphasized the importance of international collaboration in addressing climate challenges.
“This center stands as a symbol of what we can achieve through shared resources and cooperation, united by a vision of resilience against climate challenges,” he stated. Villafuerte further highlighted the transformative role of science, technology, and innovation in shaping resilient communities and advancing a sustainable future.
Dr. Renato Solidum Jr., Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), highlighted the role of technology and collaboration in building resilient communities.
“At the DOST, together with other agencies, we are working to develop smart and sustainable communities. PAGASA will host the Climate Information Services, making it a hub not only for the country but also for the rest of the world.”
CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje emphasized the value of collaboration and science-based strategies in strengthening climate resilience under the President’s leadership.
“The SSCIS Project with CCC and the Philippine government underscores the importance of partnerships that work under President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s administration. Collaborating with Germany, we demonstrate how a transformative climate agenda gets done through a science-based and data-driven approach. This partnership is key in promoting a whole-of-world approach to significantly enhance the climate resilience of our communities,” said Secretary Borje.
Mathias Kruse, Deputy Head of Mission at the German Embassy in Manila, emphasized the global significance of the CIS initiative. “The SSCIS initiative provides a platform to equip stakeholders with the tools needed to tackle these challenges. Rest assured, Germany remains committed to collaborating with the Philippines and our partners in achieving a sustainable and resilient future.”
Meanwhile, Inka Gnittke, Deputy Director of the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety, and Consumer Protection (BMUV), commended the launch of the CIS as a significant milestone. “The launch of this center marks a significant step forward. With the CIS becoming a center of excellence, we are pleased to have taken a big step forward.”
Nina Alsen, Policy Officer of BMUV, reiterated the need for shared knowledge and collaboration in addressing climate change. “It is essential to grow our shared knowledge to ensure access to accurate and timely information. This empowers communities to make informed decisions and build resilience against the growing challenges of climate change.”
The event also featured a panel discussion titled “Addressing Regional Climate Challenges Through Information Services: In Focus ASEAN.” Thelma Cinco, Project Leader of SSCIS-CIS; Dr. Juan Pulhin, Chairperson of UP Los Baños Integrated Natural Resources and Environment Management; Dr. Ma. Estrelita Uy, Director of UP Manila National Institutes of Health; and Dr. Emmanuel Delocado of ASEAN University Network on Ecological Education and Culture participated in the discussions.
The event, organized by DOST-PAGASA with support from the International Climate Initiative (IKI), GIZ, and BMUV, marked a significant milestone in promoting climate resilience in the Philippines and other members of the ASEAN.
In achieving the SSCIS project objectives, the CCC remains steadfast in its commitment to building a climate-resilient and sustainable Philippines. By facilitating partnerships, championing climate science, and integrating actionable knowledge into policymaking, the CCC continues to pave the way for a more resilient future. (CCC)
