By Kenneth Marcos 
As typhoons and floods threaten communities, local leaders in Nueva Vizcaya gathered to learn how to better protect their towns and people. From October 2 to 3, 2025, the Climate Change Commission (CCC) launched its ACT Local Programme in the province to help local governments improve their climate action plans.
The program, held with support from Senator Loren Legarda’s office, aims to give technical support to local government units (LGUs) as they update their Local Climate Change Action Plans (LCCAPs). These plans are crucial for identifying risks and preparing communities to face disasters caused by climate change.
Senator Legarda reminded officials of the importance of having updated climate plans. “How will we survive natural hazards if we do not know our vulnerabilities and risks?” she said, stressing that climate action must be based on science and real local conditions.
CCC Vice Chairperson Robert Borje echoed this, saying that good planning means looking ahead and using reliable data. “Disaster response is one thing; preparedness is another,” he said. He also encouraged the use of nature-based solutions to protect the environment and local livelihoods.
The two-day training included 11 LGUs from across Nueva Vizcaya. Participants learned about climate projections, disaster risk assessments, greenhouse gas inventories, and how to access the People’s Survival Fund for financing climate projects. They were also introduced to gender-sensitive approaches to ensure climate plans serve everyone in the community.
Key government agencies and universities joined the event, including the Department of the Interior and Local Government, the Department of Science and Technology, Nueva Vizcaya State University, and Isabela State University. Their involvement helped underline the need to connect climate action with overall local development.
The program also highlighted the role of frontliners in building resilience. Daisy Cabauatan, head of the Bureau of Fire Protection in Nueva Vizcaya and a recent awardee for disaster resilience, shared how ACT Local strengthens first responders’ efforts to protect communities.
CCC Commissioner Rachel Anne Herrera emphasized that climate plans should consider all aspects of people’s lives—health, livelihood, education, and well-being. “These are all part of climate action that must move forward,” she said.
Meanwhile, Commissioner Albert Dela Cruz Sr. highlighted the importance of understanding greenhouse gas emissions. He introduced a tool that helps individuals and communities measure their carbon footprint, making climate action personal and practical.
In a move to make climate discussions accessible to all, Filipino Sign Language interpreters were present during the event’s livestream.
ACT Local strengthens Nueva Vizcaya’s ability to face climate challenges through teamwork between government, communities, and institutions. It reflects the call of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for a resilient and sustainable future for all Filipinos.
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