The recent floods and landslides triggered by Tropical Storm Yagi, which have claimed eleven lives in the Philippines, highlight the alarming lack of preparedness and effective climate action from the administration. This latest tragedy is not just about nature’s fury; it clearly shows a systemic failure to prioritise climate resilience and disaster readiness in one of the world’s most climate-vulnerable nations.
Despite the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, the incumbent president has failed to implement robust disaster risk reduction strategies or invest adequately in sustainable infrastructure. The repeated cycle of destruction has become a grim reality for Filipinos, revealing a gap between government rhetoric and tangible action. Communities continue to bear the brunt of poor urban planning, deforestation, and outdated energy policies that still rely heavily on fossil fuels.
The administration’s slow transition to renewable energy and insufficient measures to protect vulnerable areas are not only environmentally reckless but also jeopardise public safety. While international commitments and climate pledges make headlines, the on-ground reality tells a different story: one of neglect, inadequate response systems, and a lack of forward-thinking policies. The government’s approach remains reactive, dealing with disasters only after they strike, rather than proactively preparing for the inevitable impacts of climate change.
The ongoing reliance on fossil fuels and lack of sustainable urban planning have amplified the effects of storms like Yagi, turning natural hazards into national crises. The leadership’s failure to prioritise climate resilience has left communities exposed and unprotected, forcing Filipinos to face the consequences of a warming planet with little support.
The Philippines needs a comprehensive climate strategy that accelerates the shift away from fossil fuels, strengthens infrastructure, and empowers communities. This is not just about meeting international climate targets; it’s about safeguarding the lives and futures of millions of Filipinos. The country cannot afford further delays and it is time climate change took centre-stage.
