The Philippine Delegation (PhilDel) ramped up its series of interagency meetings to further solidify preparations for the 60th Session of Subsidiary Bodies (SB60) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in Bonn, Germany from June 3 to 13.

Drawing from experiences and challenges during previous conferences, the PhilDel to the SB60, composed of representatives from different national agencies, continued a series of preparatory interagency meetings.

The meetings are aimed at discussing ways forward for the upcoming negotiations, as well as evaluate and assess outcomes of previous UNFCCC sessions.

During the meetings, Climate Change Commission (CCC) Vice Chairperson and Executive Director, Secretary Robert E.A. Borje, and Head of Delegation, led key discussions, particularly in developing and strengthening various approaches and strategies to address possible challenges as well as build consensus.

Borje emphasized the importance of communication throughout the entire sessions of SB60.

He said constant internal and external communication and coordination will help the delegates to effectively navigate the complexities of the negotiations.

As a member of the G77, a coalition of developing nations in the United Nations, the Philippines can harness valuable support, solidarity, and resources to navigate the negotiations within the UNFCCC process and advance its interests in addressing climate change.

“Our participation in SB60 aligns with the guidance of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to optimize opportunities to articulate and emphasize the Philippines’ principled position on climate change,” Borje said.

The first PhilDel preparatory assembly was attended by the CCC, Department of Finance, Department of Foreign Affairs, National Youth Commission, Department of Agriculture, Department of Energy, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, National Economic and Development Authority, Presidential Communication Office, Department of Labor and Employment, and Philippine Information Agency.

SB60 is a subsidiary body that helps and negotiates with the conference of the parties to assist the technological, methodological, and scientific matters related to assessing global climate change.

The PhilDel continues to prepare for the upcoming SB60. Further interagency meetings are anticipated to equip its members with the necessary knowledge and resources for the conference.

The CCC remains committed to address the challenges brought by climate change through active participation in these UNFCCC sessions. (PNA)