MANILA -- The Climate Change Commission (CCC) and the Department of Health (DOH) are set to enhance their collaboration to address the challenges arising from climate change’s impact on public health.
Recognizing the important nexus of climate change and health, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje and DOH Secretary Teodoro “Ted” Herbosa discussed impacts of climate change on health, and opportunities to further align and ensure coherence of policies, programs, and other measures implemented by both agencies.
Among the identified key partnership areas are developing and implementing climate-health-related policies and initiatives, and promoting public awareness and community education, as aligned with existing policies and frameworks such as the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, CCC’s ongoing development of the National Adaptation Plan, and the ongoing implementation of the Universal Healthcare Act.
Borje emphasized the need for a proactive and adaptive healthcare system, and highlighted the urgency of integrating climate considerations into health policies and practices.
He underscored the importance of both the health and climate change agenda. The lessons drawn from the global COVID-19 pandemic have vividly demonstrated the inseparable connection between climate change and health.
"The nexus between climate change and health is not just a choice; it's an imperative,” Borje said. “Our experiences have shown us that our well-being is intricately linked to the health of our planet. Recognizing this connection is key to building a resilient and sustainable future for all."
Herbosa expressed commitment to incorporating climate considerations into its strategies, creating a more holistic approach to healthcare that addresses evolving challenges from a changing climate.
"The DOH is taking significant steps towards a sustainable and resilient healthcare system,” said Herbosa. “Our plans include constructing environmentally friendly hospitals, incorporating climate change adaptation into our disaster risk reduction initiatives. As the DOH is actively reforming to prioritize Universal Health Care and primary care, we believe this presents a prime opportunity to foster partnerships for a healthier and greener future," he added.
Climate change impacts on health include increased risks of heat-related illnesses, vector-borne and waterborne diseases, malnutrition, and mental health issues.
In the CCC’s ongoing development of the Philippines’ first NAP, health is identified as one of the sectors to focus on, towards increasing national and local climate resilience.
In the recent inter-agency meeting, President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., expressed his commitment to fulfill the NAP, as part of the commitment to broader national effort to achieve a climate-smart and climate-resilient Philippines.
The CCC and DOH’s commitment to closely working together on climate change-related issues represents a whole-of-government approach to addressing climate-related challenges.
As the lead policy-making body of the government on climate change, the CCC will continue to further strengthen collaboration with agencies and other stakeholders in developing, updating, and implementing climate action towards achievement of national climate objectives.
For more information about the CCC’s climate mainstreaming activities, visit https://climate.gov.ph and https://facebook.com/cccphl. (CCC)
