Transparent governance and strategic collaboration build resilient communities

IN the next two weeks, I will be moderating an event organized by the Philippine Business for Environmental Stewardship ; our roundtable discussion will focus on "Building Resilient Communities through Environmental Accountability and Transparent Governance." As one nation, we stand at a pivotal moment in addressing one of the most pressing issues of our time: climate change.

The The Stratbase Group - Social Weather Stations ' January 2025 Pre-Election Survey revealed that 87 percent of Filipinos responded that they will vote for candidates who advocate "to address the impacts of climate change and enhance disaster preparedness."

The Philippines has always been at the forefront of climate advocacy. Our country's commitment to addressing climate change is evident through various initiatives: the adoption of a National Adaptation Plan 2023-2050; the ongoing updates to our Nationally Determined Contribution; hosting the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage; and the passage of the Extended Producers Responsibility Law. The House of Representatives is on the verge of potentially adopting the Low-Carbon Economy Investment Act and the Climate Accountability Act.

Yet, despite these proactive measures, we find ourselves grappling with a harsh reality:

the Philippines remains highly vulnerable to climate change impact, ranking as the most at-risk country from 2022 to 2024, according to the World Risk Report.

This urges us to reflect on how we can further strengthen our governance structures to build resilient communities. At the heart of this challenge lies the need for transparent governance. Transparency is not merely an operational principle but a fundamental underpinning of environmental accountability and community resilience. It fosters trust among stakeholders — government institutions, civil society, the private sector and the academic community — allowing for collective action toward sustainable development.

To build resilient communities, we must institutionalize mechanisms of transparency at all levels of governance. This begins with ensuring that policies and decisions related to climate action are made through inclusive processes. We must engage the affected communities in dialogues — not just one-sided consultations — allowing them to voice their concerns.

Over a week ago, together with former colleagues at the Climate Change Commission Philippines (CCC), I joined the Study Group Session on the Localization of the National Adaptation Plan organized by the IOM - UN Migration (UN IOM) in Cotabato City, Maguindanao.

In collaboration with the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) government, the UN IOM strengthens climate governance by promoting consultative, evidence-based and participatory planning, and decision-making processes. BARMM constituency representatives were present. Incorporating multi-stakeholder feedback into our policymaking processes ensures that initiatives address the immediate needs of communities, are equitable and aligned with their long-term aspirations.

Transparent monitoring and reporting of climate actions and their impacts are essential. Establishing clear metrics for success and accountability encourages stakeholders to remain vigilant in their efforts. When citizens see how funds are allocated, project objectives are met, and the outcomes of initiatives are evaluated and shared candidly. Trust is cultivated, which is pivotal in fostering an engaged and informed populace capable of contributing to community resilience.

In this journey toward resilience, strategic collaboration emerges as an integral part of developing innovative, transformative "green" solutions. No single entity in isolation can tackle climate change's multifaceted challenges. Collaborative frameworks that unite government agencies, local communities, academic institutions, nongovernmental organizations and the private sector are essential.

One promising example lies in enhancing collaborative governance through partnerships between local governments and nonprofit organizations. Such partnerships have demonstrated effectiveness in implementing community-based disaster risk reduction programs. Pooling resources, expertise and grassroots knowledge strengthens the capacity of local governments to act; it also empowers communities to take an active role in disaster preparedness and response. These collaborations share best practices and innovations in sustainability, fostering a spirit of shared responsibility and cooperation.

Academia plays a critical role in research and technical assistance. In the same UN IOM's study group session, the Notre Dame University (NDU) representative emphasized their need and desire to conduct research by establishing baseline data on BARMM's climate vulnerabilities. Partnerships with academic institutions like NDU can leverage scientific knowledge to inform policy decisions, develop data-driven strategies and educate communities about sustainable practices. This collective intellectual capital forms the basis for innovative solutions to complex environmental problems, aiding in the transition toward a circular economy.

In navigating the complexities of climate change and environmental degradation, we must embrace the principles of transparent governance and strategic collaboration as essential tools in our arsenal. Together, we can build resilient communities capable of confronting the challenges of today and tomorrow.

This article is published in my column, All About Choices, in The Manila Times . https://www.manilatimes.net/2025/02/08/business/green-industries/transparent-governance-and-strategic-collaboration-build-resilient-communities/2052065