The Mindanao Development Forum, held in Davao City, highlighted the urgent need for science-driven strategies to address climate-related issues within the Mindanao River Basin. The event, organized by the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), centered around integrating scientific insights into local climate action plans during its "Planet" thematic session.
Emphasizing Science in Climate Policy Formation
Secretary Robert E. A. Borje, vice chairperson and executive director of the Climate Change Commission, took center stage with a keynote address stressing the importance of science in developing effective climate policies. Borje underlined the need for data-driven projections and updated frameworks to tackle contemporary climate challenges. He showcased the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) and the Nationally Determined Contributions Implementation Plan (NDCIP) as models of science-based policymaking. The NAP, launched under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., provides strategies for adapting to climate impacts, particularly for vulnerable communities. Meanwhile, the NDCIP aims for a significant 75 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions across various sectors, exemplifying a comprehensive approach to climate mitigation rooted in scientific research.
Bridging the Divide Between Science and Policy
A key focus of the forum was bridging the divide between scientific research and policy implementation. Dr. Hilly Ann Roa-Quiaoit from Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology highlighted the necessity of making scientific knowledge more accessible to policymakers and local stakeholders. She advocated for equipping local government units with the scientific expertise needed for ecological protection, climate resilience, and disaster prevention, emphasizing its crucial role in effective climate adaptation.
Overcoming Challenges in Scientific Integration
Despite the recognized importance of science, there remains a notable reluctance to fully integrate scientific findings into broader policy frameworks. Borje pointed out the ongoing struggle to overcome resistance and enhance scientific literacy as essential steps toward advancing climate action. The forum reinforced the need to promote science-based solutions and foster collaborative efforts to translate scientific insights into actionable strategies. By addressing these challenges, Mindanao aims to enhance its climate resilience and make a significant contribution to both national and global climate goals.
