Phl to integrate climate change response in financial planning

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine government promises to integrate climate change response in its financial planning after a joint study with the World Bank showed that efficient adaptation measures could contribute to inclusive growth and poverty reduction.

The World Bank recently released a report titled ‘Getting a Grip on Climate Change’ that recommends the harmonization of planning, execution and financing of climate change programs in the country.

The study was commissioned by the Climate Change Commission (CCC) and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).

The report noted that climate change, which is expected to cause more intense typhoons, higher sea level and storm surges, affects 14 percent of the total population and affects 42 percent of coastal populations.

Weather disturbances caused by climate change is also seen to reduce productivity in the agriculture and fisheries sector.

The World Bank recommends increased financing and greater coordination among implementing agencies in the Philippines’ climate change response.

The report noted that climate change appropriations in the Philippines have been increasing by an average of 26 percent between 2008 and 2012, but that the Philippines needs to implement a more effective way of spending resources.

The report said that despite the increase in funds, tracking of the utilization of climate change resources at the local level is difficult.

Even at the expenditure level, disbursement of funds is not planned well because of lack of technical knowledge of programs.

“We may be increasing our budget but are these effective expenditures?” said Climate Change Commission vice chairperson Lucille Sering.

Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said the government is currently spending 0.3 percent of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) against a two percent international standard.

He said that based on the recommendations of the World Bank, climate adaptation would be integrated in the review of the Philippine Development Plan.

He explained that an allocation of two percent of  GDP is a “reasonable goal,” qualifying that  the allocation of government funds is dependent on “priority needs.”

For her part, budget assistant secretary Luz Cantor said the budget for climate change adaptation for 2014 would be increased.

“We’re still finalizing the 2014 budget but there will be an increase in climate change adaptation fund,” she said without specifying the amount.

Sering said the government would implement a targeted use of climate change funds.

“Incorporating our climate change action plans into the national and local development process, supported by properly-targeted spending, is important to ensure that national climate change priorities are translated into concrete actions on the ground,” said Sering.