The event, hosted by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), is set to tackle critical challenges like climate change, pollution management, and clean energy.
Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga emphasized the significance of the event, describing it as a continuation of the Memorandum of Cooperation signed by both countries in December 2023.
“This event is a testament to our enduring friendship and shared ambition to achieve mutual prosperity, sustainable development, and regional stability,” she said in her welcome remarks.
Among the key areas for collaboration are climate change adaptation, sustainable water resource management, and investments in advanced environmental technologies.
Loyzaga highlighted DENR’s plan to release 1.2 million hectares of forest land this quarter for reforestation and agroforestry. This initiative aligns with the Philippines’ updated climate action targets and global carbon market participation, supported by partners like the Asian Development Bank.
Japan and the Philippines are also focused on improving air quality through participation in NASA’s Asia Air Quality Program and enhancing early disaster risk reduction mechanisms, including landslide and flood risk mapping.
Loyzaga noted progress in waste management, citing efforts to promote a circular economy and attract investments in waste-to-energy technologies. Initiatives to combat marine litter and plastic pollution were also emphasized as priorities.
On biodiversity, the DENR is investing in marine science stations across the Philippines to support conservation and ecosystem monitoring. “We are now investing in our blue future,” Loyzaga stated, adding that both countries share the responsibility of managing vast ocean resources as archipelagic nations.
The event will conclude with policy dialogues aimed at solidifying action plans and partnerships.
“By reinforcing our bilateral relationship with Japan, we are contributing to a legacy of innovation, inclusion, resilience, and prosperity,” Loyzaga said, underscoring the commitment to a sustainable future.
