The British Embassy in Manila disclosed that it will be supporting a program that aims to prioritize the environment and climate change in the new Philippine development plan.

The British Embassy in Manila has tied up with the La Liga Policy Institute (La Liga) in implementing the project, “In Pursuit of a Low Carbon Development Track and a Climate Sensitive Budget,” which seeks to enhance public participation in the advocacy and budgetary process in combating climate change.

“This will give the new administration the chance to formulate a new Medium – Term Philippine Development Plan (MTPDP) and this also provides an opportunity for citizens’ organization to constructively engage in the process, to address the problems and issues that beset the implementation of the previous MTPDP,” Roland Cabigas, managing director of La Liga, said, citing that the MTPDP is about to lapse.

Cabigas noted that the current MTPDP focuses on poverty and economic development with very minimal recognition of environmental issues particularly climate change.

He said the review and formulation process of the current MTPDP should be inclusive and transparent, with citizens’ organizations playing a crucial role.

Among the areas for budget support include the rehabilitation and development of protected areas and national parks, and endangered species and wildlife; disaster preparedness and risk reduction; renewable energy; and organic agriculture.

“Citizens’ participation to make the necessary policy shifts towards climate-sensitive and low-carbon development is a must,” Cabigas said.

Adding that there is a need to increase budget allocation for the environment sector and make sure that actual funds are released and utilized to promote environmental sustainability and climate change actions.

The British government is supportive of the implementation of green technologies in the country to counter the adverse impact of climate change, of which the Philippines is among the vulnerable countries.

The British government has pegged in approximately P22 million for a project which aims to provide a green rating system for Philippine infrastructures.

According to British Ambassador Stephen Lillie, more partnerships among Philippine and British firms are being urged, particularly in the area of clean technology, especially in the management of water resources and solid wastes in the country.

“The UK is well placed to assist the Philippines, because of our proven track record in offering solutions to critical environmental issues,” he said.