Metro Manila 2050: The need for climate action now

If the nation’s premier metropolis stays on its current path, it risks becoming a cautionary tale of climate neglect by 2050 — unlivable, flood-prone, and bogged down by decades of short-term fixes.

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At a recent Kapihan sa Manila Hotel, the Climate Change Commission (CCC) issued an urgent call to rethink how we deal with climate change and flooding, and to work now toward an integrated, climate-smart approach for sustainable urban living.

CCC Commissioner Albert P. Dela Cruz Sr. put it bluntly when he said: “Climate change is no longer a distant threat. We need bold policies and consistent implementation to protect our people and our cities.”

Other Kapihan guests were Socorro Alicia “Cory” Quirino, national director of Miss Environment Philippines 2025, who stressed the role of education and awareness in mobilizing the youth; and Climate Change Ambassador Torres-Ackerman who highlighted the importance of advocacy and citizen engagement in pushing for climate-responsive policies.

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FORMER SENATOR ATTY. JOEY D. LINA

“Empowering young Filipinos to become advocates for the planet ensures that the message of sustainability reaches every household,” Ms. Quirino said, explaining how beauty pageants and cultural platforms can serve as vehicles for promoting environmental responsibility.

Ambassador Torres-Ackerman said that climate action is not just the task of government but requires the active involvement of communities, private institutions, and international partners. “We need a whole-of-society approach if we want to secure a safer future.”