QUEZON CITY, October 2, 2024 – Joining the rest of the world to ensure that the shift to a net-zero economy is fair and inclusive for all, the Philippines kicked off yesterday the development of the Just Transition Program prioritizing the energy and transport sectors which account for 56% of the country’s greenhouse gas emissions.

Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga who is also the Official Representative of the President to the Climate Change Commission (CCC), emphasized the importance of minimizing the adverse impacts on vulnerable sectors while the country implements its climate response and promotes sustainable development.

Secretary Loyzaga stressed the importance of reskilling and upskilling the workforce in the energy and transport sectors, both heavily reliant on the use of conventional energy. “The transition should focus not only on minimizing the negative impacts on affected sectors but also on equipping our workforce with the necessary skills for emerging opportunities in fields such as renewable and climate-friendly technologies,” she emphasized.

The need to consider the potential for new industries that can emerge from the transition and provide support to conventional industries, Secretary Loyzaga added.

National government agencies, including the DENR, Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and the Department of Transportation (DOTr), have been identified as spearheading the development of the Just Transition Program.

With support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the agencies will also lead consultations across sectors and regions in the coming months. These consultations will inform the development of a National Just Transition Framework and Roadmap which will guide the Philippines in its shift to a low-carbon, sustainable and resilient economy.##