DA Secretary Calls for United Action Against Climate Change

Manila, Philippines – Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Francisco Liu Laurel Jr. has stressed the importance of collective action in addressing the challenges posed by climate change, particularly in the agricultural sector.

Speaking at the kickoff of the 16th Annual Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness Week on November 20, Laurel underscored the urgency of this global issue and the need for immediate action. He highlighted President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s emphasis on implementing adaptive and mitigative measures against climate change, especially in agriculture and production. The event, organized by the DA Adaptation and Mitigation Initiative in Agriculture (DA-AMIA) Program, marked its 10th anniversary of fostering climate-resilient communities and advancing Philippine agriculture. The celebration’s theme, ‘Bayanihan Para sa Klima: Bagong Bansang Matatag’ and the DA sub-theme ‘AMIA, Isang Dekada: Bayanihan Tungo sa Matatag na Agrikultura,’ reflect the focus on collaborative efforts to strengthen the agricultural sector against climate impacts. Alicia Ilaga, Director of DA-Climate Resilient Agriculture Office (CRAO), outlined various activities planned for the week, including training sessions, forums, and policy talks aimed at enhancing resilience in the rice sector. Senator Koko Pimentel, represented by Kathryna Yu-Pimentel, lauded the DA for the success of the AMIA Program and its role in creating model communities. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) Agriculture, Food, Nature, and Rural Development Sector Office Director Jiangfeng Zhang also expressed ADB’s commitment to supporting the Philippines in climate action efforts.