Ph climate authority lauds NEUST for championing environmental action;
Climate Change Commission, stakeholders unite to promote climate resilience

The Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST), in partnership with the Climate Change Commission (CCC), promoted sustainable development and climate resilience through a forum hosted by the University today at the Mini Convention Center, NEUST Sumacab Campus.

Dubbed as Student and Stakeholders’ Forum on Environmental Protection and Localized Climate Adaptation Program, the forum tackled strategic climate solutions on local adaptation strategies, sustainable livelihoods, and carbon market mechanisms.

Commissioner Albert Dela Cruz, Sr. of the Climate Change Commission, lauded NEUST and other institutions for being pillars of climate education, saying, “NEUST will serve as the institutional reservoir of scientific knowledge, and we can see to it that no one will be left behind.”

He emphasized the importance of simplifying scientific information for community understanding. “Buhay, bahay, at kabuhayan ang nakasalalay dahil sa usapin ng pagbabago ng klima,” he said.

Meanwhile, NEUST President Dr. Rhodora Jugo called for a united climate action and emphasized the critical role of education and scientific discourse in addressing climate issues. 

“We take pride in being a platform where knowledge translates into solutions, and where academic discourse fuels meaningful environmental progress,” she stated. “As an academic institution, the Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology fully recognizes the pivotal role of science-based policies, inclusive dialogue, and multi-sectoral collaboration in addressing the multifaceted challenges of climate change.”

Commissioner Dela Cruz and President Jugo also led the signing of the Joint Development Undertaking for the Paris Agreement Crediting Digital Mechanism, marking a significant step in exploring carbon credit opportunities under international climate commitments.

The Climate Change Commission also emphasized that this event aligns with both the Philippine Climate Change Framework and global efforts like the Paris Agreement, strengthening community resilience through coordinated, science-based action.

Moreover, Atty. Joma San Pedro, Provincial Administrator representing Nueva Ecija Governor Aurelio Umali, underscored the local realities of the climate crisis, saying, “We feel climate change every day. It is indeed real.”

Atty. San Pedro also shared that Nueva Ecija stands as the first province in Southeast Asia to earn revenue from carbon credits, a milestone in localized climate initiatives.

The forum concluded with statements of commitment and reaffirmation of dedication to a climate-smart and resilient future by key stakeholders from both national and local government agencies, including NEUST and the Climate Change Commission, Dr. Julius Caesar Sicat, Regional Director of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST); other NEUST key officials; officer-members of the NEUST Environmental Science Society; BS Environmental Science students; and representatives from civil society organizations, academic institutions, and the private sector.

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