Philippines need to invest more in climate change adaptation

Xinhua: The Philippine government needs to put more funds in climate change adaptation given that the country is now reeling from the impact of a warmer planet. Climate change is now here as evidenced by the intense dry spell that struck in the second quarter and typhoons Ketsana and Parma that swept most areas in Luzon, northern Philippines. These disasters damaged property and lives, reduced food production and dented economic growth.

This is why, advocates said, vulnerable sectors such as farmers and fisherfolks should be given the resources to cope with climate change. "Our country needs to consider (climate change) adaptation as a priority," said Red Constantino, executive director of the Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities (ICSC), a non-profit organization working on sustainable energy solutions and fair climate policy.

"Adaptation should be declared as the national imperative. It is vital that new funds are mobilized and delivered to those least able to cope, such as small women shareholders in agriculture," said Marie Madamba-Nunez, climate campaign officer of advocacy group Oxfam Philippines….