Not long after becoming a mentor for Climate Reality Global Corps (CRGC), Prof. Mydah Kabingue represented Cebu Technological University, yet again, at the climate change meeting that capitalized on the Philippine government’s commitment to a projected greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction and avoidance of 75% below business-as-usual levels by 2030.
GHG mitigation target was underscored in the nation’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) draft presented at the 2nd National Multi-stakeholder Consultation on February 3rd, where Prof. Kabingue spoke apropos the issue.
According to the Climate Change Commission (CCC), 2.33% of the mitigation target would be implemented unconditionally with nationally mobilized resources, while 72.67% would require support or means of implementation provided under the Paris Agreement.
“ We all could attest on the value of science in addressing the climate crisis— from identifying the problem, the risks, and the threats, to researching and innovating solutions to solve these issues. Our NDC process is first and foremost a scientific process, and it must continue to rely heavily on science if it is to truly represent the needs of the Filipino,” said Kabingue, emphasizing on the process’ reliance on the academic community’s contribution.
The inclusion of an unconditional target was seen as an improvement from the country’s Intended Nationally Determined Contribution (INDC) submitted in 2015, which committed to a fully conditional target of 70% below business-as-usual levels by 2030.
“We need our NDC to invest in modernizing our agriculture systems, with stronger consideration of the needs and priorities of our farmers and other agriculture workers who everyday face and cope with the harsh realities of the climate crisis,” she added.
Aside from conveying their support, stakeholders put forward critical recommendations to ensure an inclusive strategy . These inputs included integrating a clear financial component, increasing the unconditional target in succeeding submissions, developing an evidence-based and people-centered implementation plan, unlocking the immense potential of renewable energy, and modernizing grid systems.
Meanwhile, the Committee on Climate Change of the House of Representatives approved House Resolution No. 1494 authored by Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, urging the submission of Philippine NDC by CCC.
Over the next two weeks, the CCC shall continue engaging stakeholders for the final draft.
Kabingue is currently teaching Development Communication courses at Cebu Technological University Main and has been with CRGC and Climate Reality Project Philippines for years now./Ale Taneo/UICPA