Edicts for climate change presented by councilor in summit
City resolutions and ordinances for adaptation and mitigation measures for climate change were reported by Councilor Betty Lourdes Tabanda during the first climate change summit on Feb. 9 and 22 at the Baguio Cultural and Convention Center.
The theme for the climate change is, “Sama-samang Tumutugon sa Hamon ng Nagbabagong Klima.”
Present during the summit are barangay officials, students, the climate change council, civic socio organizations, and other stakeholders.
Councilor Tabanda said laws were crafted early on for city residents’ awareness of climate change, preparedness and action for mitigation. Information and education campaigns were also planned that early, she said.
Climate change is defined simply as change over time whether due to natural variability or a result of human activities.
Presented also by the lady councilor are Resolution 407, series of 2008 which supports the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) circular mobilizing local actions to address the impacts of climate change; Resolution 384, series of 2009 for the formulation of an Integrated Program on Climate Change for the city; Resolution 259, series of 2011 which requests the city and the 128 barangays to formulate and implement a Local Climate Change Action Plan.
Other resolutions presented by Councilor Tabanda support the city schools’ and the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives program for climate change, and other groups’ support for disaster preparedness and response.
Resolution 357, Series of 2019 declares every November 19 to 25 as global warming and climate change consciousness week with activities to commemorate said dates.
The lady councilor also presented Ordinance 18, series of 2016 which is the Environment Code of Baguio.
Resolution 578 series of 2021, approved the 2021-2030 Local Climate Change Action Plan (LCCAP) of the City of Baguio.” Said document is anchored on the Comprehensive Land Use Plan, Development Plan and the 15-point LGU Collective Core Agenda.
Councilor Tabanda thus proposed ways forward which include a review for all resolutions and ordinances, and possible amendments of the Environmental Code; the LCCAP; and the City Disaster and Risk Reduction Management Plan.
The councilor encouraged the participation of all for effective and efficient plans, programs and activities against climate change.
Other speakers in the summit are Mayor Benjamin Magalong, City Planning and Development Office head Archt. Donna Tabangin, Environment Management Bureau’s Engr. Ester Aguilar, City Disaster and Risk Reduction Office head Antonette Anaban, City Environment and Parks Management Office (CEPMO) assistant head Engr. Marivic Empizo, Executives of BENECO, Baguio Water District, Land Transportation Office and other office/agency representatives. – JGF
