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Christine Boton - The Philippine Star
February 23, 2025 | 12:00am
MANILA, Philippines — In light of the upcoming May 2025 midterm elections, the Philippine Business for Environmental Stewardship (PBEST) has called on Filipinos to prioritize environmental advocacy in their voting decisions.
PBEST made the statement on Monday during a roundtable discussion co-organized with Climate Reality Project (CRP) Philippines, to emphasize the importance of environmental accountability and transparent governance in the national climate agenda.
Dindo Manhit, president of research firm Stratbase and PBEST’s lead convenor, noted that the elections present a pivotal opportunity to address pressing environmental issues through the power of informed voting.
“We, the Philippine Business for Environmental Stewardship, urge our fellow Filipinos to support proactive leaders with green policies to drive a national climate agenda that could build a climate-resilient, sustainable Philippines,” said Manhit.
He pointed to a recent Stratbase survey, where 87 percent of respondents expressed support for candidates advocating policies addressing climate change and enhancing disaster resilience. According to Manhit, such a mandate from the public could propel initiatives focusing on decarbonization, the circular economy and long-term sustainability.
He also stressed that effective climate action would require collaboration across all sectors of society, anchored in transparent and accountable governance.
During the event, Environment Undersecretary Jonas Leones reinforced the need for green policies, particularly the Extended Producer Responsibility Act.
He highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships in waste management and resource recovery and noted that the Department of Environment and Natural Resources is working with other agencies to provide incentives for businesses adopting circular economy practices.
“Investing in infrastructure, strengthening enforcement mechanisms and simplifying administrative processes are also essential in creating a more supportive environment for circular economy,” said Leones.
CRP branch manager Nazrin Castro echoed the sentiment, stressing the importance of continued dialogue and collaboration across all sectors to address climate challenges. — Emmanuel Tupas
