By Daniel P. Tapaoan, Jr. 

The Philippine Climate Change Commission (CCC) has vowed to assist Ilocos Norte to become a climate-smart and climate-resilient province, tapping the Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) as its academe partner in the endeavor. 

In a climate change forum held at the University Review Center on Wednesday, February 1, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje committed to strengthen cooperation with the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte, MMSU, and other research and development institutions to implement climate action initiatives on water and agriculture. 

Director Borje said the CCC and PGIN will schedule a series of technical writeshops on enhancing the Local Climate Change Action Plans (LCCAPs) of local government units (LGUs), and on developing project proposals for the People’s Survival Fund (PSF). MMSU and other research and development organizations in the province will be tapped as key partners in the conduct of activities, especially in helping LGUs to implement their respective LCCAPs. 

“We are one with you in your mission of creating adaptive communities,” assured University President Shirley C. Agrupis during the forum. She noted the university has gained ground on vulnerability assessment, water-saving technologies, suitability assessment through its Coastal Engineering and Management Research and Development Center (COASTER) and the National Bioenergy Research and Innovation Center (NBERIC). 

MMSU Vice President for Research and Extension Nathaniel Alibuyog, who is also a member of the CCC’s National Panel of Technical Experts, said the NBERIC is taking the lead for carbon footprint reduction and climate change response efforts, while COASTER focuses on innovating for coastal disaster risk reduction and adaptation.

Provincial Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc, who joined the forum, said improving adaptive capacities of the Ilocos Norte communities and the application of ‘people-centric approaches’ are integral in local development planning.

The forum was attended by about 100 municipal and city officers for planning and development, disaster risk reduction, and environment and natural resources. Organized by the MMSU Extension Directorate, the event deepened Ilokanos’ knowledge on CCC programs and services. 

Also joining the forum were Commissioners Rachel Anne S. Herrera and Albert P. Dela Cruz, CCC personnel, and MMSU officials. (JVBT/DPTJ, StratCom)