The Project TRANSFORM of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is central to the campaign of the Philippines towards climate resilience. (Photo Courtesy: DENR)
QUEZON CITY, (PIA) — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) launched its flagship climate resilience program, Project TRANSFORM, in Metro Manila and four other areas, marking a significant step in the capital region’s fight against climate change.
Environment Secretary Mari Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga highlighted the climate resilience project’s collaborative nature. “This is a concrete application of how local governments can work together with DENR, other government agencies, the private sector, and academia,” she said.
The project, which aims to empower communities and local governments to combat climate change and achieve sustainable development, was introduced in Quezon City, Rizal province, Limay, Mariveles, and Orion (Bataan), Ormoc City (Leyte), and Malimono, San Francisco, and Burgos (Surigao del Norte).
During the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas on Tuesday, DENR-National Capital Region (NCR) Regional Executive Director Atty. Michael Drake P. Matias emphasized that Metro Manila confronts a significant challenge when it comes to urban greening initiatives, particularly due to the lack of available areas which can be developed for the creation of green spaces.
In effect, the Project TRANSFORM can aid in addressing this pressing issue by providing a platform for the discussion of policy interventions and other ways forward in making Metro Manila more liveable and sustainable.
“Without these collaborative actions and essential assistance from our stakeholders and partners, DENR-NCR wouldn’t be able to address all problems and opportunities, both present and in the future,” said Matias.
Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, for her part, expressed gratitude for the national recognition of their environmental efforts. “We look forward to more green, sustainable, and inclusive climate initiatives for our citizens,” Belmonte said at the launch event.
Project TRANSFORM provides local governments with resources for disaster management training, greenhouse gas accounting, and biodiversity profiling. It covers land, air, and sea domains, implementing innovative land inventory systems and inclusivity-driven strategies.
The project aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s climate directives, representing a whole-of-government approach to climate action and economic prosperity.
As Metro Manila faces increasing climate-related challenges, Project TRANSFORM is expected to play a crucial role in building the country’s resilience and sustainable development capacity. (JMP/PIA-NCR)
