CCIPH made waves at the recently concluded Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (APMCDRR) 2024, held at the Market Hall Place PICC in Pasay, Metro Manila, from October 14 to 17. As the sole Philippine-based conservation group among the exhibitors, CCIPH seized the opportunity to help advance the emerging field of ecosystem-based disaster risk reduction (eco-DRR) by showcasing its projects and activities that could inspire other organizations to adopt innovative and sustainable practices that integrate ecosystem-based approaches into DRR strategies.
The APMCDRR is a biennial gathering of global leaders dedicated to addressing disaster risk challenges and fostering collaboration in implementing the Sendai Framework across the Asia-Pacific region. This year’s conference has attracted diverse participants, including representatives from Member States, intergovernmental and international organizations, the private sector, and civil society.
CCIPH’s President and Chief Scientist, Dr. Neil Aldrin Mallari, took center stage at the conference, delivering a talk on “The Green Assessment & Recovery Framework: Re-Imagining Climate Adaptation and Resilience of Island Ecosystems in the Philippines.” Dr. Mallari introduced the Green Assessment Recovery Framework (GARF), a tool designed to assess the extent of typhoon damage to biodiversity, ecosystems, and ecosystem services.
The GARF has been successfully piloted in key sites of the USAID Sustainable Interventions for Biodiversity, Oceans, and Landscapes (SIBOL) Project, including Palawan and Siargao. By identifying areas at risk, the framework aims to support communities that rely on ecosystems and ecosystem services, which are particularly vulnerable to extreme weather events. Over 200 DENR regional and field office staff have already been trained to implement the GARF.
CCIPH’s participation in the APMCDRR 2024 underscores its commitment to advancing eco-DRR and promoting sustainable practices. By sharing its expertise and innovative solutions, CCIPH is contributing to building a more resilient and sustainable future for the Philippines and the Asia-Pacific region.(MJC de Roma)
