Vigilance at all times
What does a Marcos administration mean for a country among the most vulnerable to the climate crisis? First, Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.’s efforts to promote and support the rights of climate and environmental defenders will dictate the progress of the climate movement in the country.
A vibrant democracy is a key ingredient to addressing the climate crisis. It must be noted, however, that a report released by international watchdog Global Witness last year revealed that the Philippines was the third deadliest country for environmental defenders in the world in 2020.
Facing the public through debates to explain his platform was not part of Marcos’ strategy and campaign, which makes it hard to assess his stance on this important issue.
And so these questions linger in our minds: Will his administration support the Environmental Defense Bill pending in Congress? Will he put in place mechanisms to ensure that climate and environmental advocates are heard and consulted?
Second, the presumptive president’s success or failure in implementing climate policies will decide who survives and thrives in this country.
Hit by the tropical cyclones and other weather extremes that are becoming more frequent and destructive as global warming continues, the Philippines experiences escalating losses and damages year after year. This vicious cycle could only be addressed by deploying science and evidence-based solutions and by ensuring that the global community follows through with its commitment to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels—the threshold needed for vulnerable communities to survive amid the impacts of climate change.