INSIDER VIEW | Public-private partnerships for the planet

The Philippines remains one of the most disaster-prone countries in the world. Super typhoons and severe storms are growing in both frequency and intensity, bringing widespread destruction.

These extreme weather events—combined with floods, landslides, and deforestation—continue to displace communities and degrade ecosystems. On top of these climate-related threats, the country also experiences frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, further compounding its already high vulnerability to natural disasters.

The role of PPPs in climate action

In light of these escalating threats, how can the public and private sectors align to mitigate environmental degradation and enhance climate resilience? Can Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) be part of the solution?

The answer is a resounding yes.

Under the PPP Code and its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR), climate resilience and environmental sustainability are not only guiding principles. They are mandatory considerations. These must be integrated into the planning, design, and implementation of all PPP projects.

Environmental and climate change considerations are now required as Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and as components of the project feasibility study for both solicited and unsolicited proposals. 

These considerations also factor in the review and approval of national and local PPP projects.

Atty. Alberto C. Agra

The government alone cannot ensure a livable and sustainable planet. Private sector participation is not only important. It is indispensable. We are all stakeholders. We are all duty-bearers. We are all stewards.

Green PPPs in action

Beyond being compliance requirements, the government is expressly authorized to pursue environmentally sustainable PPPs. The government is allowed and enjoined to implement projects for climate change adaptation and mitigation, disaster risk reduction and management, biodiversity conservation, environmental protection, solid waste management, energy efficiency, and renewable energy.

According to ChatGPT, the following are examples of PPPs for the planet:

• Green infrastructure: Joint construction of climate-resilient roads, flood control systems, eco-parks, and large-scale reforestation efforts.
• Renewable energy: Development of solar farms, wind energy systems, and waste-to-energy facilities.
• Disaster risk reduction: Collaborative development of early warning systems, risk transfer and insurance mechanisms, and resilient housing communities.
• Circular economy initiatives: Establishment of materials recovery facilities, recycling hubs, and eco-industrial zones.

Collaboration is non-negotiable

Various government agencies are already well-positioned to lead such initiatives.

For instance:

• The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) can implement reforestation and biodiversity projects.
• The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) can lead in flood control and resilient infrastructure.
• The Department of Energy (DOE) can champion renewable energy ventures.
• The Department of Transportation (DOTr) can develop e-vehicles and promote sustainable urban mobility.
• The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) can co-implement irrigation and watershed management projects.
• The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) can lead waste-to- energy and flood control efforts.
• Local Government Units (LGUs) can pursue solid waste management, eco-tourism, and climate-resilient housing projects.

These agencies may pursue either solicited or unsolicited proposals through various PPP arrangements, including Joint Ventures, Long-Term Lease, Build-Transfer, Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT), Build-Own-Operate (BOO), and Rehabilitate-Own-Transfer (ROT).

The government alone cannot ensure a livable and sustainable planet. Private sector participation is not only important. It is indispensable. We are all stakeholders. We are all duty-bearers. We are all stewards.

The time to push PPPs for the planet started yesterday.