Fresh from hosting the 6th Board Meeting of the Fund for responding to Loss and Damage (FrLD), Environment Secretary Raphael Lotilla welcomed the advisory opinion issued by the International Court of Justice (ICJ), affirming the legal obligations of all States to address climate change and protect vulnerable ecosystems.
Lotilla emphasized the importance of unity in the fight for climate justice, stating, “The Fund was created not just as a financial mechanism, but as a testament of solidarity with those who share this burden. Together, we must amplify our voices and actions, ensuring that no nation faces the ravages of climate change alone.”
“Year after year, we endure the harshest blows of the climate crisis.”
It must be recalled that last July 9, in a speech delivered on behalf of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the opening of the FrLD meeting in Cebu City, the environment chief quoted the latter: “Year after year, we endure the harshest blows of the climate crisis. From destructive typhoons to rising sea levels threatening coastal communities, the nation’s struggles mirror those of other vulnerable nations.”
FrLD, established after COP27, is a global initiative aimed at assisting developing countries in addressing the adverse effects of climate change. The Fund’s pilot phase, called the Barbados Implementation Modalities (BIM), is focused on providing initial financial support through grants to developing countries. This phase will involve developing funding criteria, a call for proposals, and support for initial projects, with the first funding commitments expected in early 2026.
The environment head further quoted the President: “Business-as-usual is not an option when addressing loss and damage. Every delay translates to disrupted lives and lost opportunities for thousands of families who struggle against the backdrop of a warming planet. The cost of inaction is far too high; the moment for change is now.”
“The Fund is seen as a lifeline for countries facing the direct consequences of climate change and lacking the resources to recover adequately.”
In the speech, Marcos explained that the Fund is seen as a lifeline for countries facing the direct consequences of climate change and lacking the resources to recover adequately.
“The responsibility before the Board is immense, but so is the opportunity to shape a fund that delivers real change,” he said. “With the stakes higher than ever, the Philippines will seek discussions that are urgent and impactful, shaping a fund that is swift, accessible, and human-centered, tailored to the needs of the most affected communities.”
The Philippines is set to host the 7th Board Meeting in October, this time in Manila.
“This upcoming meeting is crucial as it will likely provide significant updates on the operationalization and resource mobilization of the fund, paving the way for its initial implementation,” Lotilla explained.
He also emphasized the need for the international community to lend their support to sustain the fund.
“We call on nations to fulfill their promises of solidarity,” Lotilla added, as he conveyed the Philippines’ commitment not only as a host but as a dedicated partner in this global endeavor for climate justice.
