DENR leads climate, disaster investment summit

By Keren Anne Bernadas

LEGAZPI CITY --- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), along with the Climate Change Commission and Local Climate Change Adaptation for Development, Inc., will be hosting the National Climate and Disaster Investments Summit in Legazpi City from November 26 to 27, 2025.

Organizers said the summit will bring together various groups—such as national and local governments, universities, and community members—to work together more effectively in tackling issues related to climate change and disasters.

“With the increasing frequency of disasters, now is the time to strengthen local and national investments that prioritize preparedness, community safety, and sustainable development,” stated the DENR Bicol in an advisory.

The focus will be on how to finance projects that address these challenges quickly and in a way that is tailored to local needs.

Organizers explained that it involves using a new approach that emphasizes sustainable practices, such as using nature to address environmental problems, managing water resources, careful land use, and building infrastructure that can withstand climate impacts.

Over 500 delegates from different parts of the country signified their attendance, including governors, mayors, climate advocates, and environmental enthusiasts.

International organizations like the Asian Development Bank, World Bank, European Union, and others will also participate by sharing their expertise on global funding options and partnerships for climate-related projects.

The summit is expected to help create policy recommendations for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on how to adapt and mitigate climate change.

It will also gather a commitment from key stakeholders to support important climate actions.

Additionally, the summit plans to suggest ways to improve access to the People’s Survival Fund and other funding sources available for local governments, universities, and community groups working on climate issues.

Lastly, there will be efforts to develop a database that showcases successful strategies for managing disaster risks and adapting to climate change, providing valuable information for planning and decision-making. (PIA Bicol)

Over 6,000 volunteers collect 9,027 kilograms of waste in the Bicol region during a regionwide cleanup for International Coastal Cleanup (ICC) Day on September 20, 2025. With the theme, “Clean Seas Against the Climate Crisis,” the 2025 ICC raised awareness of marine pollution and promoted community participation and environmental stewardship. (Photo courtesy of DENR Bicol)