MANILA – Despite being disproportionately affected by climate change, Senator Loren Legarda acknowledged on Monday women as demonstrators of remarkable resilience and “powerful agents of change.”
In her keynote speech during the Philippine Resilience Awards held at SMX Manila here in Pasay City, Legarda said the knowledge, experience, and leadership of women are vital for building community resilience.
“This is why we must continue to amplify their voices, not only in the community but in decision-making processes at all levels of government,” Legarda urged, adding that women’s role is crucial for effective climate action.
During the event, the “Journey to Climate Resilience: The Philippine Story” and “Filipina Changemakers” video documentaries were also launched showcasing inspiring stories of women leading transformative climate action in the Philippines.
These include Nida Collado and Mila Boñgalbal, whom Legarda cited as proof that when women are empowered, they carry with them the entire community.
Collado, a 2023 awardee, is a farmer-leader of the Macatumbalen Community-Based Forest and Coastal Management Association in San Vicente, Palawan who mobilized community resources to strengthen forest protection against illegal logging.
On the other hand, Boñgalbal, president of the Joroan Farmers Association in Tiwi, Albay, trained 68 farmer members to be equipped in resilient practices, especially on food security, through sustainable livelihoods such as abaca drying, and livestock and vegetable farming.
“At the heart of this resilience are our women – women who have led with courage, compassion, and determination. The ‘Filipina Changemakers’ video documentaries tell the inspiring stories of women from all walks of life who are driving transformative climate action,” Legarda said.
The event, which was led by the Climate Change Commission, celebrated the Filipino spirit of overcoming adversity and showcased the remarkable achievements of women climate leaders.
Legarda called for continued collaboration and innovation to address climate change and ensure a resilient future for the Philippines. (PNA)