The Johannesburg Crucible: Africa Stands on the Precipice of Debt and Climate Disaster

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Johannesburg, South Africa — As world leaders descend on Johannesburg this weekend for the G20 Leaders' Summit, the atmosphere is charged not with ceremonial diplomatic pleasantries, but with the raw urgency of survival. Against a darkening backdrop of escalating geopolitical tension, the Global South has drawn a line in the sand, demanding immediate financial reform.

For the African continent, this summit is not merely a policy forum; it is a critical juncture to break a "vicious cycle" where debt obligations and climate catastrophes define the future.

The Surprise Guest and The Geopolitical Stage

In a last-minute dramatic twist that has reshaped the summit's dynamics, it was announced that the United States will attend the Johannesburg gathering, reversing President Trump’s earlier threat to boycott the event. While the US delegation is present primarily to accept the G20 Presidency for 2026, the level of their actual engagement remains an open question.

Meanwhile, Brazil’s President Lula da Silva arrives direct from Belém, where the UN Climate Summit is concluding, attempting to carry political momentum from COP30 to the G20 table. With the African Union Commission now seating as a permanent member, the geopolitical weight of the continent has never been heavier, nor the stakes higher.

The Arithmetic of Survival: Debt vs. Climate

The central narrative of this summit is the unsustainable financial stranglehold on African development. African leaders have arrived with a unified, desperate message: the continent’s debt burden has reached levels that make economic development impossible.

The statistics paint a stark picture of the financial trap:

The Deficit: Africa currently faces an annual climate adaptation funding gap of USD 40 billion.

The Trade-off: In 2022, African nations spent twice as much on debt repayments than they received in climate finance.

The Trap: Two-thirds of the adaptation funds provided to Africa were given as loans, ironically deepening the very debt crisis that prevents them from adapting.

As Hailemariam Desalegn Boshe, former Prime Minister of Ethiopia, bluntly states:

"Every dollar that African countries spend on interest payments is a dollar that could have been invested in climate resilience and sustainable development." 

A Systemic Brake on Growth

While Africa is positioned as the world's next "global growth frontier" due to its status as the youngest population on earth, this potential is being systematically eroded by a climate crisis it did not create.

Despite contributing the least to global emissions, Africa endures the harshest impacts. Extreme weather is no longer a distant threat; it is a "systemic brake on growth" that is already shaving percentage points off African GDP annually through infrastructure damage and reduced agricultural output. Unplanned climate risks have forced governments into a "permanent crisis-response mode," obliterating the fiscal space needed for education, innovation, and infrastructure.

The Green Paradox

The irony of the summit is found in Africa's geology. The continent holds over 30% of the world's critical mineral reserves, including the lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements essential for the global transition to a green economy. Yet, without locally-led investment that avoids replicating "past colonial practices," Africa risks fueling the world's green transition while remaining trapped in poverty.

A Path to Redemption?

South Africa’s G20 presidency faces intense scrutiny. While credited with raising awareness of the debt crisis, critics point to a lack of firm commitments to actually fix it.

However, hope remains in the form of the G20 Africa Expert Panel's High Level report, which offers a roadmap for redemption including:

A debt-refinancing initiative specifically for low-income countries.

The creation of a "borrowers' club".

Drastic improvements in debt transparency and the mobilization of concessional finance.

As the summit kicks off on November 22, the message from the host continent is clear: There can be no development without paying for climate risk. The Johannesburg summit will be judged not by the speeches made, but by whether the G20 can finally mobilize the money that matters.

The 2,900% Lie: How Big Oil Is Buying the Narrative to Sabotage COP30

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As the world prepares to descend on Belém, Brazil, for the critical COP30 climate summit, a silent, algorithmic war is being waged for the public’s mind. While diplomats and scientists draft agendas to save the planet, the fossil fuel industry has unleashed a digital deluge designed to drown out the truth.

A staggering new investigation by Climate Action Against Disinformation (CAAD) and the Climainfo Institute has exposed the scale of this offensive: in the months leading up to the summit, Big Oil’s targeted Google Ads in Brazil skyrocketed by 2,900%.

This is not merely marketing; it is a calculated psychological siege. By dominating the search results on the world's most ubiquitous platform, the oil industry is attempting to manufacture a "social license" to continue polluting, just as the window to avert climate catastrophe slams shut.

The Digital Onslaught

The timing is unmistakable. In October 2025, just one month before the summit, the digital floodgates opened. While global oil advertising on Google saw a significant 218% spike, the bombardment of Brazil was nearly fifteen times more intense.

The data reveals a coordinated surge by the industry’s titans:

Saudi Aramco: The state-backed giant exploded its monthly advertising by 469.2%, running over 10,000 ads capable of reaching 77 million people.

BP: Starting from a lower base, BP ramped up its ad buying by a massive 1,369.2%.

ExxonMobil & TotalEnergies: These majors increased their already heavy presence by 156.3% and 106.5% respectively.

"Every year Big Oil spends big money on greenwashing and disinformation... it's well past time policymakers stop letting Big Tech players like Google get rich off lies used to justify the pollution that's killing people and the planet." — Philip Newell, CAAD coalition communications co-chair.

The Trojan Horse: Petrobras and the "Green" Mirage

While international giants flood the global zone, the domestic front in Brazil is dominated by a single player: Petrobras.

The Brazilian state-owned oil company accounted for nearly 70% of all oil-related Google Ads shown in the country. But it is the content of these ads that reveals the depth of the hypocrisy. Petrobras is aggressively marketing itself as a leader of the "energy transition" and a champion of the Amazon.

The reality, however, tells a radically different story:

The Investment Gap: While running ads about a green future, Petrobras plans to pour 90% of its $111 billion investment budget (2025–2029) directly back into fossil fuels.

Drilling the Amazon: The surge in "green" advertising coincided with the company seeking—and receiving—approval to drill for oil in the Amazon, despite public opposition.

A History of Spills: Far from being a steward of nature, Petrobras is responsible for 86% of oil incidents in Brazil.

Through "native" advertising and influencer partnerships, Petrobras effectively masquerades as a sustainability actor to a young audience, all while doubling down on the very fuel sources threatening the Amazon's survival.

The Strategy: From Denial to Deception

The tactic has shifted. The era of blunt climate denial is over; the era of "Digital Greenwashing" has begun.

The investigation highlights how companies use subtle, indirect messaging to present themselves as "modern and efficient sustainability actors". They utilize terms like "Eco Friendly Gas" or "Green Diesel" to create a misleading perception that fossil fuels are part of the climate solution.

This narrative is built on a financial lie. Since the Paris Agreement, the sector has invested $8.7 trillion in oil and gas, compared to a paltry $113 billion in renewables—a mere 1.4% of their total investment. Yet, to a user searching on Google, these companies appear to be the primary drivers of green innovation.

The Enabler: Google's Profitable Complicity

This disinformation machine requires a vehicle, and Google is providing the engine. With over 80% of the pay-per-click market, Google Ads allows oil companies to buy their way to the top of the search results, influencing public perception before a user even clicks a link.

Despite a 2021 pledge to ban the monetization of climate denial, Google continues to profit from the industry. Between 2020 and 2022 alone, the tech giant earned $23.7 million from Big Oil ads. By allowing these companies to target users based on location and preference, Google effectively sells the integrity of the information ecosystem to the highest bidder.

The "Tobacco Moment"

The report draws a chilling parallel between Big Oil and Big Tobacco. Just as cigarette manufacturers misled the public for decades about the lethality of their products, the fossil fuel industry is using its vast wealth to obscure the link between its products and climate collapse.

The conclusion is stark: self-regulation has failed. The authors argue that the only way to clean up the information environment is a total ban on fossil fuel advertising, modeled directly after the bans that silenced the tobacco industry.

As COP30 approaches, the battle lines are drawn. On one side, the urgent scientific consensus to decarbonize. On the other, a multi-billion dollar industry willing to pay any price to keep the world addicted to oil—and using our own search engines to do it.

The Great Drying: How Heat Stole the Water from West Asia

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The warning lights are flashing red in Tehran.

Imagine a city of nearly 10 million people facing the prospect of total evacuation. This is not the plot of a dystopian novel; it is the potential reality facing the capital of Iran. Local authorities have warned that if the crisis persists without rain by December 2025, the city may need to be emptied.

This existential threat is the culmination of a punishing five-year drought that has gripped West Asia. While water scarcity is not new to this arid region, the severity of this specific event is unnatural.

Human-induced climate change made the rainfall and temperature conditions that led to the ongoing drought in Syria, Iraq and Iran more frequent and severe, according to new analysis by World Weather Attribution. 

This new analysis, which uses weather observations and not climate models, is an update of a previous study in the region published in 2023. While the previous analysis had already found that climate change had worsened what was then a three-year drought, the updated results show an even stronger climate change signal.

The Invisible Thief: It’s Not Just the Rain

For years, we have looked at the sky for answers to drought, but the culprit was rising from the ground. The West Asia region, encompassing the Fertile Crescent, has suffered from exceptionally low rains since the winter of 2020. However, a lack of rain is only half the story.

The study reveals a critical mechanism: Evapotranspiration.

As the world warms due to the burning of fossil fuels, the air becomes thirstier.

The Heat Factor: Mean temperatures in the region have increased substantially.

The Drying Soil: Higher temperatures increase evaporation, pulling moisture out of the soil at an accelerated rate.

This creates a vicious cycle. Even if rainfall levels were somewhat low, in a pre-industrial world, they would have been manageable. But today, the heat turns a "dry spell" into a catastrophe. The study found that without fossil fuel warming, the very conditions driving today’s "exceptional" drought would have resulted in normal, non-drought conditions.

Loaded Dice: The Staggering Statistics

The statistics emerging from this study are startling. They illustrate how climate change has loaded the climatic dice against human survival in the region.

The researchers used the Standardised Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI) to measure drought severity.

Then (Pre-industrial): In a world 1.3°C cooler, a five-year drought of this magnitude would be a once-in-a-lifetime anomaly, expected to occur only once every 250 years.

Now (1.3°C Warmer): Today, this same five-year catastrophe is expected to return every 5 years.

Climate change has made this specific five-year drought approximately 50 times more likely.

Furthermore, the intensity has shifted dramatically. Conditions that we now classify as "Extreme" (D3) or "Exceptional" (D4) drought would not have been classified as a drought at all in a world without human-induced warming.

A Region on the Brink

The consequences of this "supercharged" drought are visible across the landscape of West Asia, devastating lives and dismantling history.

Iran: This is the worst drought on record for the country. Agriculture, which consumes over 90% of Iran's water, has been crippled, devastating farmers who rely on irrigation.

Iraq: The year 2025 became the driest on record since 1933. Water levels in the mighty Tigris and Euphrates rivers plummeted by up to 27%.

Syria: Rainfall crashed by nearly 70%, causing a wheat shortfall of 2.73 million tonnes and leaving millions food insecure.

This environmental stress is compounded by human factors. Unsustainable water management, over-grazing, and agricultural expansion have degraded the land, leaving it defenseless against the heat. As Mariam Zachariah of Imperial College London notes, "Climate change has been stacking drought on top of drought," leaving no time for the land or the people to recover.

The Verdict: A Warning for the World

The crisis in West Asia is a window into the future of a warming planet. Friederike Otto, a professor in Climate Science, warns that these conditions are no longer rare; they are the new common reality of a world warmed by fossil fuels.

If the world fails to phase out fossil fuels, these "exceptional" droughts will become even more frequent. Projections indicate that nearly one-third of major cities worldwide could exhaust their water supplies by mid-century.

The drought in Iran, Iraq, and Syria is not just a weather event; it is a signal. As Roop Singh of the Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Centre states, a warming world turns "otherwise manageable challenges into much larger crises".

From Khazanah to Legacy: Malaysia's Bold Bet on Planetary Health

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Imagine a Malaysia where economic growth doesn't come at the cost of its rivers, forests, and air. A nation where prosperity is measured not just in GDP, but in the resilience of its ecosystems and the well-being of its people. This isn't a utopian dream—it's the core vision of the National Planetary Health Action Plan (NPHAP), a blueprint designed to steer Malaysia away from a fragile "zero-sum" game toward a future of "Return on Values" (ROV).

As the world grapples with the Anthropocene era—where human activity is the dominant force shaping Earth's future—Malaysia stands at a decisive crossroads. Six of nine planetary boundaries have already been breached. The stakes are high: rising disaster costs, degraded biodiversity, and increasing public health risks threaten to undo decades of progress. The NPHAP is Malaysia's answer: a Whole-of-Nation strategy to secure human and ecological well-being by embedding planetary health into governance, development, and daily life.

The Crisis: Why We Must Act Now

For decades, development has been driven by a "Return on Investment" (ROI) mindset—profit maximisation often at the expense of nature. While this model delivered economic growth, it has left a trail of environmental debt. The NPHAP argues that this trajectory is unsustainable. Climate disruption, pollution, and biodiversity loss are destabilising the very systems that support life and the economy.

The solution lies in a paradigm shift to Return on Values (ROV). This new logic integrates environmental stewardship, social justice, and economic well-being into a single, coherent vision. It asks us to move from short-term gains to long-term resilience, where a healthy planet is seen not as a constraint on prosperity, but as its foundation.

The Strategy: Six Game-Changing Bets

The NPHAP is built on six "Key Result Areas" (KRAs) designed to trigger systemic transformation. These are not isolated initiatives but interconnected levers for change:

Governance: The plan calls for a structural overhaul. A National Sustainability Council (Majlis Kemampanan Negara), chaired at the highest level, will align policies across ministries, ensuring that planetary health isn't just an environmental issue but a national priority. This council will be supported by a panel of experts to guide evidence-based decision-making.

Environment and Health: Recognising the link between ecosystem degradation and public health, this KRA focuses on reducing pollution, restoring ecosystems, and building resilience against climate-related health risks.

Sustainable Food: The plan envisions a shift towards regenerative agriculture and equitable food systems that ensure nutrition security while protecting the land.

Energy Transition: Moving away from fossil fuels, this KRA advocates for a rapid, just transition to renewable energy, supported by policy reforms to catalyse green industries.

Research and Education: To future-proof the nation, planetary health must be embedded in education at all levels. This KRA prioritises systems thinking in curricula and investment in transdisciplinary research.

Values, Culture, and Communication: Perhaps the most critical shift is cultural. The plan calls for a "Whole-of-Society" transformation, fostering a national ethos of stewardship where every Malaysian—from policymakers to students—plays a role.

The Engine: Science, Technology, and Innovation

At the heart of this transformation is Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI). The NPHAP leverages STI not just as a tool for economic growth, but as an enabler of resilience and equity.

Environmental Genomic Database: A cutting-edge digital architecture will be built to map and monitor Malaysia's biodiversity. This database will provide the intelligence needed for conservation and biosecurity, turning nature's "code" into actionable data.

ProSocial AI: Artificial Intelligence will be harnessed to support planetary health, from optimizing energy grids to monitoring deforestation. The concept of "ProSocial AI" ensures these technologies are designed with regenerative intent, aligning digital progress with ecological well-being.

From Vision to Action: The Human Element

Plans on paper mean nothing without people to execute them. The NPHAP introduces the Transformational Sustainability Leadership Module (TSLM) to equip leaders across government and business with the mindset and tools to drive this change. It emphasizes "systems thinking"—the ability to see the big picture and understand how decisions in one sector ripple through others.

But leadership isn't just for the boardroom. The plan empowers local communities and youth to become stewards of their environment. It champions a "Humanity-Centric" approach, ensuring that development serves all segments of society, leaving no one behind.

A Call to Legacy

The NPHAP is more than a policy document; it is a statement of intent for the future. It challenges Malaysia to reclaim its "Khazanah"—its natural treasures—not as resources to be exploited, but as a legacy to be protected.

As we face the converging crises of the Anthropocene, the NPHAP offers a path forward. It proves that we do not have to choose between a healthy economy and a healthy planet. By embracing planetary health, Malaysia can build a future that is prosperous, fair, and resilient—a legacy we can be proud to leave for our children.

The time for incremental change is over. The time for planetary health action is now.

25 Years of Joy, Giving, and Filipino Christmas Spirit: World Bazaar Festival Marks Its Silver Anniversary

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Every Christmas season, there is a familiar warmth that fills the air. The glow of parols, the sound of carols, and the joy of coming together. For twenty-five years, one event has captured that spirit and turned it into a beloved Filipino tradition: the World Bazaar Festival.

This 2025, the World Bazaar Festival celebrates its Silver Anniversary, marking twenty-five years of turning shopping into sharing and gatherings into lasting memories.

What began in 2001 as a humble holiday bazaar has grown into the country’s biggest, grandest and longest running Christmas charity event. Each year, it brings families, friends, and communities together under one roof at the World Trade Center Metro Manila. Through the years, it has become more than just a destination. It has become a part of how Filipinos celebrate the season.

From December 12 to 21, 2025, the World Bazaar Festival will once again open its doors to hundreds of local entrepreneurs, global brands, and creative artisans. Visitors can explore a wide selection of heartfelt handmade gifts, festive décor, and culinary delights. Every corner will be filled with the sights, sounds, and flavors that make Christmas in the Philippines truly special.

But beyond the sparkle and the shopping, the festival has always been about something deeper: the joy of giving. Organized by Worldbex Services International for the benefit of the ABS-CBN Foundation, the event continues to uphold its mission of “Shop and Share.” Every visit and every purchase helps support charitable programs across the country.

This year’s Silver Anniversary Edition will be a nostalgic celebration filled with exhibits, live performances, and interactive installations that honor the people and stories that shaped the World Bazaar Festival through the years. Visitors can relive the magic of their first bazaar visit or create new memories with loved ones while being part of a cause that continues to make an impact.

For twenty-five years, the World Bazaar Festival has been more than just a shopping event. It has been a celebration of Filipino generosity, creativity, and connection. It is where laughter fills the halls, where gifts carry meaning, and where the spirit of Christmas feels most alive.

The 25th World Bazaar Festival runs from December 12 to 21, 2025, open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM at the World Trade Center Metro Manila.

To secure your tickets and learn more, visit www.worldbazaarfestival.com or follow @WorldBazaarFestival on Facebook and Instagram for updates.

DepEd underscores PBBM’s promise to prioritize education in Albay school visit, PhilSports inauguration

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PASIG CITY, 19 November 2025 -- The Department of Education (DepEd) on Tuesday reaffirmed that education remains central to the administration’s agenda, citing President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s back-to-back engagements in Albay and Pasig City as the national government focuses on learners’ welfare, disaster readiness, and youth development.



During the President’s briefing at Cararayan-Naga Elementary School in Tiwi, Albay on Tuesday, Education Secretary Sonny Angara noted the administration’s directive to accelerate relief efforts, reassess damaged infrastructure, and provide psychosocial support for affected families, especially children who have experienced trauma. DepEd also deployed learning kits to evacuation centers to ensure continuity of education while communities recover.

“Mandato natin sa DepEd na tiyakin na tiyakin na ligtas ang ating mga mag-aaral, at nabibigay ang kanilang mga kinakailangan, lalo sa panahon ng sakuna. The President’s emphasis on the welfare of children and the continuity of education reinforces our work on the ground,” Sec. Angara said.


On Wednesday, Sec. Angara also joined President Marcos, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman John Patrick “Pato” Gregorio, and Philippine Olympics Committee (POC) President Abraham N. Tolentino in Pasig City for the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the refurbished PhilSports Complex, strengthening the government’s broader efforts to integrate sports development into holistic education.


The upgraded complex features improved dormitories, a redesigned Philippine Sports Museum, rehabilitated aquatic facilities, and modernized PSC offices. The improvements aim to support high-performance athletes while expanding access to youth sports programs nationwide.


In his message, Sec. Angara emphasized the significance of renewed sports spaces for DepEd’s grassroot sports programs.

“Sa loob ng maraming dekada, ang iba’t ibang sports complex sa bansa ang nagsilbing tunay na tahanan ng ating mga pambatong atleta,” Angara said. “With the country hosting the first-ever FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup starting this Friday, DepEd gives its full support to PSC and the Marcos administration in strengthening sports programs to uplift the Filipino spirit of discipline and excellence.”


DepEd said the day’s events highlight the complementary roles of disaster response, youth development, and infrastructure improvement in fulfilling the administration’s education-centered vision.


“Whether in evacuation centers or national training grounds, the direction is clear—education, child welfare, and youth development remain at the core of government action,” Angara said.

Eating More, Growing Less: The Crisis of Stagnant Farms and the Widening Philippine Rice Gap

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The Philippines is facing a critical tipping point. A startling disparity has emerged between the Filipino appetite and the capacity of the nation's farmers to feed it. In 2022 alone, Filipinos consumed 2.3 million metric tons more rice than the country produced. This staggering 18% shortfall has locked the nation into a deepening dependence on imported rice, effectively stalling years of government attempts to achieve self-sufficiency.

New research from Ateneo de Manila University’s John Gokongwei School of Management and Department of Environmental Science exposes the root of this crisis: a national rice output that has remained largely stagnant since 2017.

The Decade of Stagnation

The numbers paint a sobering picture of an industry struggling to keep pace with a growing nation. In the ten years leading up to 2023:

Production vs. Demand: Total production of palay (unmilled rice) grew by a meager 9% (from 18.4 to 20.1 million metric tons), failing to match the rise in population and consumption.

Idle Lands: Rice farmland expansion was virtually nonexistent, increasing by just 1%.

Slow Yields: Average yields improved by only 7%, moving from 3.9 to 4.2 metric tons per hectare.

Dispelling the "Myth of Urbanization"

For years, a common narrative has suggested that sprawling concrete cities are eating up the country's rice paddies. The researchers, however, have debunked this. They found no strong evidence that city expansion is the primary reason for farmland stagnation.

Instead, the true enemies of production are far more systemic and brutal: a combination of limited land expansion, slow yield growth, climate shocks, and uneven public investment.

A Tale of Two Archipelagos: Feast and Famine

The research reveals that the Philippines is not experiencing this crisis uniformly; rather, the data exposes sharp, dramatic regional contrasts.

The Regions in Retreat Between 2018 and 2023, some regions faced a collapse in production. The Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) and Eastern Visayas (Region VIII) saw output plummet by 15% and 11% respectively. These declines were driven by a "perfect storm" of challenges:

Loss of rice farmland.

Repeated typhoons and punishing droughts.

Farmers abandoning rice to switch to more profitable crops.

The Unexpected Victors Conversely, other regions defied the trend with spectacular growth. The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) achieved a massive 40% increase in rice output. Cagayan Valley (Region II) and Ilocos (Region I) also posted significant gains of 27% and 16%.

These successes were not accidental. They were the result of:

Infrastructure: Expanded irrigation systems and farm mechanization.

Support: Improved seed programs and targeted regional initiatives.

Peace Dividends: In the specific case of BARMM, the surge is linked to dedicated investments and the political stability achieved in the region.

The Road Ahead: Targeted Strategy Over Blanket Policy

The authors of the study note that blanket national programs, such as the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF), have been insufficient to lift the productivity of lagging regions.

To close the widening deficit, the researchers argue that the Philippines must pivot toward regionally tailored, climate-resilient strategies. This includes:

Stronger irrigation systems.

Better-targeted support services.

Financial measures to lower costs for farmers.

There is still reason for hope. The success of regions like BARMM and Cagayan Valley provides a blueprint for the rest of the nation. With the right mix of policies and investments, the researchers remain optimistic that local rice production can grow again, finally narrowing the country's dependence on foreign grain.

The 0.9°C Pivot: How Three Agreed Actions Could Rescue the World from Catastrophe

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The Precipice of Catastrophe

The global climate trajectory has reached a terrifying inflection point. Under current government policies, the world is not merely drifting, but hurtling toward a catastrophic 2.6 ∘C of warming by the end of the century. Despite a decade since the Paris Agreement was adopted, progress has stagnated, and the chasm between current action and the 1.5 ∘C warming limit continues to widen. The planet is currently warming at an alarming rate of approximately 0.25 ∘C per decade. If we maintain our current course, this rate will barely slow, condemning communities and ecosystems worldwide to rapidly mounting, irreversible loss and damage.

But a lifeline exists, forged in the consensus of global leaders: the three crucial 2030 targets negotiated and agreed upon during the first Global Stocktake (GST1) at COP28. A new analysis reveals the monumental power of actually implementing these goals: to triple renewable energy capacity, double the rate of energy efficiency improvements, and substantially cut methane emissions.

The 0.9 ∘C Lifeline: Bending the Warming Curve

The full, concerted global implementation of these three COP28 Energy and Methane goals would deliver the single biggest step forward in climate action since the Paris Agreement was adopted in 2015.

The impact is nothing short of dramatic:

Averted Catastrophe: These actions would cut projected global warming this century by a staggering ∼0.9 ∘C. The estimated warming under current policies would fall from a catastrophic 2.6 ∘C to 1.7 ∘C, successfully bringing projected 21st century warming below the critical 2 ∘C threshold.

Emissions Overhaul: By 2030, global emissions would be approximately 14 GtCO₂e lower than expected under current policies, rising to 18 GtCO₂e lower by 2035. For the G20 nations—which account for about 80% of global emissions—this commitment alone would deliver reductions of around 11 GtCO₂e by 2030.

Crucially, this action provides an immediate buffer against accelerating climate impacts. Implementing the goals would immediately begin to slow the rate of warming, reducing it by a third in the next decade, and effectively halving it by 2040. This rapid deceleration is vital, offering the world a fighting chance to "catch up" on adaptation, giving communities and vulnerable ecosystems the precious time needed to cope with rising impacts.

The Three Pillars of Decarbonization

The three goals are a mutually reinforcing engine of change, each delivering a massive share of the required emissions cuts:

Tripling Renewables: This is the backbone of the energy transition. It drives fossil fuels out of the power system and provides the clean energy needed for economy-wide electrification. This goal accounts for roughly 40% of the G20's total emissions reductions.

Doubling Energy Efficiency: This pillar contributes another 40% of the total reductions. By striving for the most efficient use of energy in buildings, industry, and transport, efficiency minimizes waste and maximizes electrification across demand sectors.

Cutting Methane: Although methane reductions account for only about 20% of the total emissions cuts, the warming benefit is disproportionately large. Fast-acting methane mitigation, especially in the energy sector, contributes between one-third and one-half of the overall reduction in the rate of warming.

The Path Beyond the Pivot

While the implementation of these goals is technically feasible with existing technologies, the fight is far from over.

The 1.7 ∘C outcome, while a monumental improvement, represents a temperature that would still overshoot the Paris Agreement's 1.5 ∘C limit by at least 0.2 ∘C to 0.3 ∘C. The planet would still face a peak temperature of around 1.8 ∘C in this scenario.

To truly align with the Paris Agreement and limit the duration of this overshoot, further, deeper action is non-negotiable. This includes additional measures, such as halting deforestation by 2030, cutting other non-CO₂ emissions, and scaling up carbon dioxide removal.

The most immediate challenge, however, is one of global solidarity. The success of this planetary rescue mission hinges on scaled-up financial support. It is critical that richer countries step up to provide the necessary climate finance for poorer countries that lack the resources to act at the scale required.

The COP28 Energy and Methane goals are not merely ambitious suggestions; they are the agreed-upon, indispensable foundations for a resilient, low-carbon global economy and a decisive advance at the most critical juncture in human history. The analysis is clear: this is our clearest, fastest, and most achievable path to bending the warming curve and keeping a safe future within sight. The time for implementation is now.

The Methane Reckoning: Progress is a Whisper, The 1.5°C Gap is a Roar

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Belém, Brazil, COP30 – November 17, 2025

The global climate fight arrived at a moment of stark clarity on the sidelines of COP30 in Belém. The Global Methane Status Report (GMSR), a joint assessment by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC), reveals a gripping tension: humanity has bent the arc of projected methane emissions, yet remains terrifyingly short of the decisive action needed to avert climate disaster.

Methane (CH₄)—a potent greenhouse gas responsible for nearly a third of all current warming—is rising. But amidst the grim statistics, a fragile hope flickers. The GMSR, launch confirms that the Global Methane Pledge (GMP), launched in 2021, is already yielding results. Current legislation has lowered projected 2030 emissions compared to earlier forecasts, a consequence of new waste regulations in Europe and North America and slower natural gas market growth between 2020 and 2024.

The Glimmer of Hope: Historic Progress Within Reach

The report paints a picture of what is achievable when nations commit. Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and Methane Action Plans submitted by mid-2025 could translate into an 8% cut by 2030 below 2020 levels. This is not mere incremental change; if fully implemented, it would mark the largest and most sustained decline in methane emissions in history.

"The Global Methane Pledge has transformed ambition into tangible progress," affirmed European Commissioner for Energy and Housing, Dan Jørgensen. "Across sectors and continents, countries and companies are proving that methane reductions are achievable."

Yet, this hard-won progress is shadowed by an overwhelming warning. To meet the Pledge's critical goal—a 30% reduction from 2020 levels by 2030, a target essential to keeping the 1.5°C limit within reach—requires a dramatic, global mobilization. The report is unequivocal: only full-scale implementation of maximum technically feasible reductions globally will close the gap.

The Available Arsenal: Solutions That Pay for Themselves

The most dramatically compelling finding of the GMSR is the sheer readiness and cost-effectiveness of the necessary solutions. The technology to fix the crisis is not waiting in a lab; it is available and proven today:

Energy Sector (72% of mitigation potential): Leak detection and repair programmes, and the plugging of abandoned wells in the oil and gas sector.

Waste Sector (18% of mitigation potential): Source separation and treatment of organic waste.

Agriculture Sector (10% of mitigation potential): Water management measures for rice cultivation.

In a stunning indictment of inaction, the report finds that over 80% of 2030 emissions reduction potential can be achieved at low cost. For the fossil fuel industry, the cost of full mitigation could be deployed at just 2% of the sector’s 2023 income.

The Human Stakes and the Call for Accountability

The benefits of decisive action far outweigh the minimal costs, extending well beyond climate stability and into the core of human health and food security. Full implementation of technically feasible reductions could prevent over 180,000 premature deaths and secure 19 million tonnes of crop losses each year by 2030.

"Reducing methane emissions is one of the most immediate and effective steps we can take to slow the climate crisis while protecting human health," said Inger Andersen, Executive Director of UNEP.

The onus falls heavily on the world's economic powers: Seventy-two percent of global methane mitigation potential lies in G20+ countries. These nations could see their emissions fall by 36% by 2030, but only if they aggressively target methane across the agriculture, waste, and fossil fuel sectors.

Ministers attending the Global Methane Pledge Ministerial in Belém stressed that the pathway forward requires two non-negotiable elements: rapid scale-up of existing policies, technologies, and partnerships, and a dramatic increase in transparency on ambition and action to accurately track progress.

As Canada's Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Julie Dabrusin, stated, "We must continue to drive faster, deeper methane cuts. Every tonne reduced brings us closer to cleaner air, more resilient communities, and a thriving global economy."

The GMSR 2025 is more than a report; it is a critical mandate. The choices made in the next five years will determine whether the world seizes this monumental opportunity—an opportunity to unlock cleaner air, stronger economies, and a safer climate for generations to come. The solutions are waiting; only the political will remains to be unleashed.

A Turning Point in the Climate Fight: World Leaders Seal Historic Deal to Defeat Disinformation at COP30

Wazzup Pilipinas!? 

COP30, Belém, Brazil – November 12, 2025

In a dramatic and unprecedented move, nations at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP30) have sealed a landmark agreement, marking the first time that information integrity has been formally prioritized on the global climate agenda. Against a backdrop of rising temperatures and escalating political tension, the launch of the Declaration on Information Integrity on Climate Change signals a decisive offensive against the "obscurantists" and denialists who threaten global climate action.

The air in Belém was charged with urgency as the Global Initiative for Information Integrity on Climate Change unveiled the Declaration, establishing a shared international commitment to combat climate disinformation, misinformation, and the systematic attacks against the scientists and journalists who report the truth.

"Climate change is no longer a threat of the future; it is a tragedy of the present," declared President of Brazil, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. "We live in an era in which obscurantists reject scientific evidence and attack institutions. It is time to deliver yet another defeat to denialism."

A Frontline Against Denialism

The Declaration, drafted in collaboration with civil society members of the Global Initiative Advisory Group, has been swiftly endorsed by ten founding countries: Brazil, Canada, Chile, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Spain, Sweden, and Uruguay. Since the initial drafting, the Initiative has gained even more momentum, with Belgium, Canada, Finland, and Germany joining as new members, bringing the total number of signatory states to thirteen.

This expanded membership underscores a deepening international consensus: the threats to information integrity are not a secondary issue, but a "defining challenge of our time," actively undermining the foundations of public debate and society's capacity to forge collective climate solutions.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres, who has long championed the cause, emphasized the stakes: "We must fight mis- and disinformation, online harassment, and greenwashing... Scientists and researchers should never fear telling the truth."

Mobilizing Society: Key Commitments

The core of the Declaration lies in its call to action across all sectors—governments, the private sector, civil society, and academia. It stresses that mobilizing every actor in society is impossible without access to consistent, reliable, and evidence-based information.

The most compelling commitments made by the signatories include:

Protecting Fundamental Rights: Promoting the integrity of climate information in line with international human rights law, including rigorous freedom of expression standards.

Empowering the Media: Supporting the sustainability of a diverse and resilient media ecosystem to ensure accurate and reliable coverage on climate and environmental issues.

Safeguarding Truth-Tellers: Fostering cooperation and capacity-building to protect those reporting on and researching climate issues, often "at great risk to themselves," as noted by UNESCO’s Director-General, Audrey Azoulay.

Global Access and Equity: Advancing equitable access to accurate, understandable information for all, especially through the UNFCCC's Action for Climate Empowerment agenda.

The Private Sector and The Global Fund

In a crucial appeal for financial and ethical responsibility, the Declaration directly urges the private sector to commit to information integrity in their business practices, demanding transparent, human-rights responsible advertising that bolsters reliable journalism and counters "greenwashing."

Furthermore, recognizing that resources are desperately short, the Declaration calls on governments to ensure sufficient funding for research, particularly in developing countries. The Global Fund for Information Integrity on Climate Change, launched in June 2025, is already a force for change.

With an initial seed funding of USD 1 million from the Government of Brazil, the Fund has been overwhelmed by the need, receiving 447 proposals from nearly 100 countries. Notably, nearly two-thirds of the eligible proposals originate from the Global South, highlighting the disproportionate impact of disinformation in vulnerable regions. The Fund has already begun supporting its first wave of vital projects across multiple continents.

The New Climate Consensus

The declaration at COP30 is more than a policy statement; it is an acknowledgment that the battle for the planet is also a battle for reality itself. By prioritizing the integrity of information, world leaders have declared that the manipulation of truth is as potent a threat to humanity’s future as greenhouse gas emissions.

The question now is whether the momentum generated in Belém can be sustained, translating ambitious commitments into effective, global counter-disinformation strategies before the rising tide of denialism and the rising sea levels make action too late.

Bohol's PADI Tide Dive Festival: A Triumphant Return to the Deep, Forging a Future of Sustainable Tourism

Wazzup Pilipinas!? 

In a powerful demonstration of environmental stewardship and a major strategic push to reclaim its title as a premier dive destination, Bohol successfully hosted the PADI Tide Dive Festival on Saturday, November 8, 2025. With the Bohol Beach Club in Panglao serving as the stunning backdrop , the festival captivated the Chinese market and underscored the Philippines' profound commitment to sustainable dive tourism.

A Dive for Conservation

The festival was a joint effort organized by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines and the Department of Tourism (DOT) Shanghai Office, in partnership with the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) China. The core goal was to re-establish the Philippines as the top choice for the rapidly expanding Chinese market while deeply embedding the values of marine conservation and cultural immersion.

The commitment to ocean health was vividly displayed when 100 Chinese divers and five PADI ambassadors dove into the tropical waters of Panglao Island. Their mission: the removal of the invasive crown-of-thorns starfish.

This crucial conservation activity, guided by local marine NGOs and PADI's Project AWARE , showcased the Philippines' deep commitment to ocean sustainability.

TPB COO Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles stated that by including conservation activities, "we invite Chinese divers to actively participate in preserving our world-class marine biodiversity," which will be instrumental in making the Philippines "among the premier and most responsible dive destinations in Asia".

Shaping the Future of Dive Tourism

In the afternoon, the focus shifted from the water to the sand with a vital beachside dialogue and panel discussion. Stakeholders convened to explore critical topics:

Sustainable tourism models 

Marine conservation best practices 

Innovative dive industry partnerships 

The clear objective was to ensure that the continued growth of dive tourism in Bohol is managed responsibly, thereby preserving the destination's rich biodiversity for future generations. The festival was strategically designed to position Bohol as the ideal destination for travelers seeking rich marine life, world-class dive sites, and a trusted network of PADI-certified dive centers.

A Celebration of Adventure, Heritage, and Hospitality

The main event was a lively celebration, underscoring the united national and local efforts to welcome back international visitors.

The celebration featured remarks from key officials, including Francis Lardizabal (Tourism Attaché for PDOT Shanghai Office), Riza Marie S. Macaibay (Supervising Tourism Operations Officer for DOT Central Visayas Region), and Ms. Joanne Pinat (Officer-in-charge of the Bohol Provincial Tourism Office).

Guests were treated to the spirited cultural performances of the WinArts Dance Anatomy and Lumad Panglaoanon Cultural Dance Troupe.

These performances proved that Bohol offers a unique blend of adventure, heritage, and genuine Filipino hospitality.

The memorable day concluded with networking and a grand raffle where participants won prizes like dive gear, resort accommodations, and sponsored airline tickets.

TPB COO Nograles encapsulated the festival's success, stating, "The PADI Tide Dive Festival in Bohol elevates the Philippines' brand, showcasing our commitment to both high-value tourism and sustainability". The success firmly anchors the Philippines' commitment to high-quality tourism and environmental stewardship.

Acknowledgments

The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines extended its sincere gratitude to the Provincial Government of Bohol, led by Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado, for their invaluable support.

Sponsors and partners recognized for making the event possible include:

Bohol Beach Club 

The Bohol Association of Hotels, Resorts and Restaurants Inc. (BAHRR) 

The Department of Tourism Central Visayas Region 

This milestone event sets a powerful benchmark for future international engagements, proving that the Philippines is ready to welcome the world back to its magnificent underwater kingdom with a focus on preservation and responsible growth.

The Rise of the Phoenix: How the Philippines is Reclaiming its Destiny Through the Humble Coconut

Wazzup Pilipinas?!

A Nation's Crisis, a Golden Opportunity

The narrative of the Philippine coconut industry has long been a story of potential shackled by neglect. For decades, the 25 million Filipinos whose lives revolve around the "Tree of Life" faced fragmentation, low yields, and an uncertain global market.

But a seismic shift is underway.

Addressing the Coconut Farmers Cooperative Summit in Davao City, the collective voices of government, industry champions, and, crucially, the farmers themselves, declared a new era. This is not just an industry plan; it is a national crusade to transform a struggling sector into a thriving, resilient, and inclusive engine of economic growth.

The Big Bold Bet: 100 Million Palms and $52.9 Billion

The scale of the ambition is breathtaking.

The cornerstone of this crusade is the BAYANIHAN Campaign, spearheaded by PCA Administrator Benjamin R. Madrigal Jr., with a singular, immense goal: to plant and rehabilitate 100 million coconut palms by 2028.

This isn't just about planting; it’s about transformation. By 2034, the Philippines aims to:

 * Add 3.9 billion nuts to the supply chain.

 * Grow the annual nut yield to 6.4 billion nuts.

 * Create massive opportunities for farmers, suppliers, processors, and exporters.

This push is vital because, in 2023, the industry already accounted for a massive $52.9 billion in coconut oil and derivative exports, supporting 37% of the total coconut farming global trade. The goal is to not just maintain, but aggressively grow, this global footprint.

Fortifying the Future: R.E.S.I.L.I.E.N.T. Farmers

The transformation starts with the people who till the land. The government’s renewed commitment is visible through several key initiatives:

1. Economic Empowerment and Credit

The revised CFIDP 2024-2028 ensures that farmers, through their registered cooperatives, gain:

 * Access to Capitalization: Easier and faster access to credit.

 * Modern Facilities: Shared processing facilities to boost quality and efficiency.

 * Bargaining Power: Stronger market leverage and direct connection to buyers.

2. Education and Skills Training

The TESDA/ATI training programs offer crucial skills in crop production, entrepreneurship, GAP (Good Agricultural Practices), and cooperative governance. Over 7,000 scholars have already graduated, proving that expertise is the new fertilizer.

3. Health and Welfare

Beyond the farm, the focus is on the farmer’s well-being. This includes expanded health, medical, and social programs, including free check-ups, diagnostics, medicines, and surgical assistance through partners like PhilHealth and PCSO.

From Seedling to Global Powerhouse

The strategy is a multi-pronged attack on traditional weaknesses:

The Planting Revolution

The Coconut Fertilization Program (CFP) is injecting life into existing farms. It aims to fertilize 170 million nutrient-deficient palms and target 2025 to fertilize 19.66 million palms to boost yield immediately by 25-50%.

The Innovation Factory

The sector is embracing modern science. Research and development, including tissue culture and biotechnology, are essential to develop resilient, high-yielding, and climate-resistant coconut varieties. This includes the push for intercropping, and the promotion of value-added products like coco sugar, coir, VCO, and virgin coconut oil.

The Culinary Connection

The establishment of Coconut Culinary aims to connect the industry directly to the hospitality and culinary sectors. By linking production to high-end consumption, the industry ensures a stable, quality domestic market while elevating the global profile of Philippine coconut products.

A Call to Unity: The Power of Cooperation

Ultimately, this success story hinges on cooperation.

“The greatest strength is the unity of cooperative leaders and the story of the new Filipino, mature, capable, and responsive to the times, for employment and livelihood opportunity.”

The message is clear: the future of the coconut industry will be farmer-owned, empowered, and innovation-driven. Through strong partnerships with the PCA, CDA, PhilHealth, DTI, and COOP-NABAGO, the industry is transitioning from survival to prosperity.

This is the promise: to build an industry that is masagana (abundant), maunlad (progressive), and maginhawa (prosperous). The humble coconut is no longer just a commodity; it is the symbol of the Philippines' resilient spirit and its thriving, inclusive future.

DOST-TAPI Lunduyan 2025: Pagtatagpo ng Dunong at Paglalakbay ng Inobasyon

Wazzup Pilipinas!? 

“Sumisilip na ang liwanag, hudyat ng paglalayag…” Sa pagpasok ng himig na ito mula sa opisyal na awitin ng Lunduyan, malinaw ang isinasalaysay: may bagong kabanata na namang binubuksan para sa mga pinoy inventors, innovators, technopreneurs, at katuwang na institusyon ng bansa. At sa pagdiriwang noong Nobyembre 7, 2025 sa Alabang, Muntinlupa City, matagumpay na ginunita ng Department of Science and Technology -Technology Application and Promotion Institute (DOST-TAPI) ang Lunduyan 2025, ang taunang pagtitipong muling naglaan ng pagkakataon para sa pagkilala, pag-uugnay, at pagbibigay-halaga sa mga teknolohiyang Pilipino.

Lunduyan Bilang Tagpuan ng Ugnayan at Paglikha

Ngayong taon, tampok ang dalawampu’t-apat (24) na aprubadong proyekto para sa taong 2025 at apat (4) na matagumpay na proyektong unang itinanghal sa Lunduyan noong 2024. Sa kabuuan, ang dalawampu't walong (28) teknolohiyang ipinamalas ay nagpapatunay ng lumalawak na kakayahan ng Filipino innovators at ng patuloy na paggabay ng DOST-TAPI sa kanilang paglalakbay, mula sa pagbuo ng ideya, paggawa ng prototype, pagsusuri, hanggang sa pagsulong sa merkado. Ang Lunduyan ay nabuo bilang isang sentrong nagsisilbing tagpuan ng iba’t ibang sektor, industriya, at adbokasiya. Sa bawat taong pagdaraos nito, mas tumitibay ang layunin nitong lumikha ng puwang kung saan maaaring makilala, maipakilala, at mapagtibay ang mga proyektong may kakayahang baguhin ang buhay, kabuhayan, at kinabukasan ng komunidad. Bilang pangunahing ahensya sa ilalim ng DOST para sa commercialization support, ang DOST-TAPI ang gumagabay sa mga teknolohiyang Pilipino upang makatawid mula laboratoryo patungong lipunan. Sa pamamagitan ng kanilang mga inisyatibo, inilalapit nila ang agham at inobasyon sa merkado bilang tugon sa pangangailangan ng bawat mamamayan.

Sa kanyang pambungad na mensahe, ibinahagi ni Atty. Marion Ivy D. Decena, Director ng DOST-TAPI, na ang Lunduyan ay hindi lamang pagtatanghal ng mga proyektong matagumpay na naisakatuparan, kundi isang patunay na nagtatagpo ang agham, teknolohiya, at pangarap upang makabuo ng mga solusyong tunay na makabuluhan. Binigyang-diin niya kung papaano nakakatulong ang DOST-TAPI sa mga Filipino innovator sa pamamagitan ng mga programang tulad ng Grants and Assistance to Leverage Innovations for National Growth o GALING Program, Technology Innovation for Commercialization o TECHNiCOM Program, at Expanded Venture Financing Program o EVFP ay nagiging gabay ng paglalakbay tungo sa commercialization. “Mula sa ideation, prototyping hanggang commercialization, kayo ay patunay na kapag pinagsama-sama ang siyensya, dedikasyon, at suporta, walang imposible,” banggit pa ni Director Decena.

Naki-isa rin sa pagdiriwang si Asec. Napoleon K. Juanillo, Jr., DOST Assistant Secretary for Technology Transfer, Communications, and Commercialization, na naghatid ng mensahe sa ngalan ni DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. Ipinahayag niya na ang Lunduyan ay isang larawan ng kapangyarihan ng pagkakabuklod-buklod at pagtutulungan at ng tibay ng loob ng mga Pilipinong innovator. Sa kanyang talumpati, binigyang diin niya ang pag-angat ng bansa sa Global Innovation Index 2025 mula Rank 53 tungo sa Rank 50 at kung paanong ang mga inisyatibo ng DOST-TAPI ay may malaking ambag dito. Aniya, ang mga kwento ng tagumpay sa Lunduyan ay hindi lamang kwento ng teknolohiya, kundi kwento ng pag-asa at pag-unlad na kayang marating ng sambayanang Pilipino sa tulong ng agham at inobasyon.

Mga Kuwento ng Tagumpay at Pag-usbong

Isa sa mga itinampok na kwento ng tagumpay ngayong taon ang DOON Transport Technologies Inc., proponent ng TECHNiCOM Program, na patuloy na lumalawak bilang pioneer ng peer-to-peer car-sharing sa bansa. Mula sa simpleng ideya tungkol sa hindi pantay na access sa mobility, nakamit nila ang 6x increase sa angel funding, mahigit 5,000 verified users, 700 na sasakyang naka-register, at operasyon sa higit 90 lungsod sa buong Pilipinas. Sa mga salitang binitawan ni Miguel Locsin, co-founder ng DOON: “The breakthrough came when DOST-TAPI believed in our mission. Their support didn’t just fund us, it validated us.” Dahil sa tulong ng TAPI, nakapagpatibay sila ng legal groundwork at nakapagsagawa ng pag-aaral na makatutulong para sa pagbuo ng mga patakaran tungkol sa car-sharing sa bansa.

Kasama rin sa mga kinilala si Alvin Phoebe Artemis Valdez, founder ng Farmesto Technologies Inc., proponent ng GALING Program, na nagpaunlad ng AI-based dosing system para sa greenhouse operations. Ayon kay Valdez, ang kanilang inobasyon ay nabuo mula sa pagnanais na tugunan ang paulit-ulit na hamon sa agrikultura tulad inefficiency, unpredictability, at kakulangan sa data-driven insights. Sa tulong ng GALING Program, na-enhance nila ang kanilang prototype at nagkaroon ng access sa mga tools at network na kailangan upang maipakilala ang teknolohiya sa merkado. Sa kanyang talumpati, binigyang-diin niya na “Ang tunay na inobasyon ay hindi lamang technical novelty, kundi ang kakayahang lutasin ang tunay na problema ng magsasaka.”

Hindi rin nagpahuli ang FASI Form System sa ilalim ng Innovation and Technology Lending Program o ii-TECH Lending Program. Mula sa pangarap noong dekada ‘70 na lumikha ng mas matibay at reusable panel forms kapalit ng plywood, ipinamalas ni Frederick Erum kung paano nagiging solusyon ang teknolohiya sa mga hamon ng industriya ng konstruksyon. Sa tulong ng i-TECH Loan, napanatili nila ang buffer stock at naipatupad ang rental system upang mas mabilis na tugunan ang pangangailangan ng mga contractor. Ayon kay Erum, “Napakahalaga ng tulong ng gobyerno. It gives inventors like us the confidence to keep building solutions for the country.”

Isang Simula at Pagtatagpo sa Susunod na Yugto

Sa kabuuan ng pagdiriwang, hindi lamang mga teknolohiya ang ipinakita kundi ang mga mukha, boses, at pangarap na bumubuo sa innovation ecosystem ng Pilipinas. Ang seremonya ng parangal para sa mga 2025 Invention and Innovation Champions, ang pagpapakilala sa mga bagong inisyatiba, at ang paglagda sa MOU kasama ang AHG Lab ay nagsisilbing patunay na lumalawak ang komunidad na kumikilala sa agham at teknolohiya bilang sa pangunahing haligi tungo sa kaunlaran ng bansa.

Sa pagtatapos ng programa, muling umalingawngaw ang mga linya ng awitin: “Ang tadhana’y luukit na ng mga palad mo, ipapakita ang pagiging malikhain mo…” At sa pagbalik-tanaw ng lahat sa mga inobasyong nakita at mga kuwentong narinig, naging malinaw na ang Lunduyan ay hindi isang destinasyon, ito ay pinanggagalingan ng susunod na yugto.

Isang tagpuan kung saan nagsisimula ang panibagong paglalakbay.

Isang sentro kung saan nagtatagpo ang agham, talino, at pag-asa.

Isang paalala na ang inobasyon ay patuloy na nabubuhay sa bawat Pilipinong handang mangarap at kumilos.

Sa pagtatapos ng pagtitipon, iisa malinaw na mensahe ang iniwan sa bawat dumalo:

Magtatagpo tayong muli. Magtatagpo sa Lunduyan.

_____________________________________________________________________

Lunduyan serves as the annual culminating event of DOST-TAPI, highlighting approved invention and innovation projects that embody the nation’s scientific and technological progress. Symbolizing the convergence of diverse sectors, industries, and advocacies, Lunduyan celebrates the collective journey toward a more connected and empowered society through science, technology, and innovation.

The Department of Science and Technology - Technology Application and Promotion Institute (DOST-TAPI) is among the DOST’s service agencies tasked to promote technology commercialization and innovation support services, created under the Executive Order No.128 on 30 January 1987.

For more information about DOST-TAPI’s programs and services, you may email info@tapi.dost.gov.ph, call (02) 8582 1450, or visit the official DOST-TAPI Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/DOST.TAPI.

IN PHOTO (from left to right): Dr. Annabelle V. Briones, Director of Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI); Atty. Lucieden G. Raz, Deputy Director of Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI); Engr. Maria Teresa Bien De Guzman, Assistant Secretary for Countryside Development of DOST; Dr. Teodoro Gatchalian, Undersecretary for Special Concerns of DOST; Atty. Marion Ivy D. Decena, Director of Technology Application and Promotion Institute (DOST-TAPI); Dr. Napoleon K. Juanillo, Jr., Assistant Secretary for Technology Transfer, Communications, and Commercialization, along with DOST-TAPI partners and supported innovators.

DepEd pushes long-term education fixes as nationwide MANCOM convenes in Palawan

Wazzup Pilipinas!? 

PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, 17 November 2025 — The Department of Education emphasized long-term structural reforms in basic education as regional officials from across the country met in Palawan for the nationwide Management Committee Meeting, using MIMAROPA’s conditions as a working case to strengthen learning continuity, system integrity, and school readiness in disaster-prone areas.

“Ang bilin ng Pangulong Bongbong Marcos Jr., tungkulin natin ay hindi lang tumugon sa problema,” said Education Secretary Sonny Angara, who accompanied the President during the post-disaster rehabilitation efforts in Negros Occidental over the weekend. “Ang tungkulin natin ay ayusin ang ugat ng problema para hindi na ito maulit sa susunod na henerasyon.”

The meeting reviewed how recent typhoons disrupted classes nationwide and exposed long-standing vulnerabilities in schools. In Palawan, division reports confirmed 781 damaged classrooms due to Typhoon Tino, with repairs ongoing, while shifts to modular and digital Alternative Delivery Modes (ADMs) continue where power and connectivity remain unstable.

DepEd said the school damage in island provinces reinforces the need for resilient construction, stronger ADM systems, and funding strategies that match recurring risks, noting that divisions with frequent class suspensions require more predictable support.

Regional directors also reported on its response to recent typhoons, detailing classroom damages and the ongoing use of modular and digital learning across Regions II, CAR, IV-A, V, NIR, and VII, as officials discussed nationwide strategies.

National reforms were also presented, including updates to the Strengthened Senior High School Program, wherein the 1st quarter rapid assessment yielded generally positive results.

Field piloting and finalization of the SSHS Monitoring Tool (SSHSMT) are underway. With MIMAROPA’s labor market centered on agriculture, fisheries, and ecotourism, aligning course offering with actual market performance and industry roadmap of the region under the program was also discussed to improve the program.

A significant portion of the meeting also focused on internal governance and the credibility of teacher qualifications. DepEd reported that the new guidelines establishing a national registry of recognized teacher education programs have been finalized, allowing the department to verify credentials submitted for hiring and promotion, issue advisories to field offices, and coordinate with oversight agencies to prevent the acceptance of unaccredited programs.

These measures, in coordination with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Teacher Education Council (TEC), Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), and Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II), aim to shut down opportunities for “diploma mill” operations and safeguard promotion processes nationwide.

Meanwhile, DepEd said investigations on the supposed “items-for-sale” activities remain active and are being carried out under established procedures. Preventive measures are in place, and additional safeguards are being introduced to protect appointment and promotion processes.

Prior to the meeting, Sec. Angara also met with Palawan Governor Amy Alvarez and visited Palawan National School, the largest public school in Region IV-B, serving around 10,000 students under the Puerto Princesa City Schools Division Office.

The agency noted that actions taken in MIMAROPA form part of a broader national effort to strengthen learning recovery, improve system transparency, and professionalize the education workforce. Outputs from the MANCOM will feed into upcoming policy adjustments on resilient infrastructure, early-grade literacy, SHS alignment, and expanded career progression.

UP Alumnus Leads Digital Health Initiative for PH Marginalized Communities

 

Wazzup Pilipinas!? 

The ATIPAN Project aims to bring digital health to marginalized communities. 

Remote communities in the Philippines face challenges that hinder their access to quality healthcare services. In response, Dr. Romulo De Castro and his team implemented the ATIPAN Project, which aims to bring digital health to marginalized communities.

Drawing inspiration from the Hiligaynon word atipan—which means “to take care of”—and from the Ati communities Dr. De Castro’s team serves, the project was launched in 2021 to offer free teleconsultations, provide technology and training for health workers in partner indigenous people and rural low income communities in Western Visayas, as well as supply basic medication and health essentials.

The ATIPAN Project has received positive feedback from communities, who highlighted the benefits of telehealth in their area. While the long-term impacts of the project have yet to be fully assessed, there is already evidence of its potential to transform health care delivery in remote and under-resourced communities, primarily by improving local access to health services.

Currently funded by foreign agencies, the ongoing project looks forward to seeing its expansion plans and innovations come to fruition.

Dr. De Castro is an alumnus of the University of the Philippines – Diliman College of Science (UPD-CS), graduating with a degree in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology. He is now the Director of the Center for Informatics of the University of San Agustin in Iloilo City.

Dr. De Castro was the resource speaker of the recent “Innovation Impact Stories: A Webinar Series on the Societal Impacts of Science Innovation” of UPD-CS’ Innovation Program held last October 15, 2025.

Innovation Impact Stories is a webinar series that explores how science, technology, and innovation drive real-world impact. This initiative highlights the journeys, challenges, and successes behind research-driven innovations that have made meaningful contributions across various fields. It aims to inform and inspire students, researchers, and faculty to foster a culture of purposeful and collaborative innovation that bridges academic theory with practical application.

Gen V Launch Ignites Youth-Led Movement for Prevention and Everyday Wellness

Wazzup Pilipinas!? 

Filipino youth leaders, creators, and advocates came together for the launch of Gen V: Your Vibe, Your Move, a youth-driven movement that aims to make preventive health a natural and empowering part of everyday life. Grounded in visibility, authenticity, and informed choices, Gen V encourages Gen Zs and Millennials to take charge of their well-being by understanding the human papillomavirus (HPV) and the diseases it can cause.

 

Caption: Influential creators came together at  the Gen V: Your Vibe, Your Move launch, joining energizing dance and wellness activities that underscored the movement’s call for early protection, open conversations, and a culture of prevention.  

At the heart of Gen V is a clear message: prevention is power. HPV is one of the most common viral infections worldwide, affecting people of all genders. While many infections clear on their own, certain high-risk strains can lead to cervical cancer, penile cancer, anal cancer, and oropharyngeal cancers. In the Philippines, cervical cancer remains a major health burden, 12 Filipinas die from the disease every day, even though it is highly preventable through vaccination, screening, and early care.

A Movement That Connects Science With Youth Culture

More than a campaign, Gen V is an ethos that balances science with culture. It brings together evidence-based health information and the everyday realities, values, and creative energy of today’s youth. The launch gathered influential creators such as Karina Bautista, Fonzi, Killa Kushla, and Kylie Celebre, along with other digital advocates who used their platforms to ask questions, join discussions, and help break long-standing misconceptions about HPV.

 

Caption: A dynamic mix of content creators and health advocates come together at the GenV launch, captured here as they champion conversations on preventive health and HPV vaccination – where science and culture meet to empower today’s youth.

The conversations sparked through Gen V underscored essential truths: HPV vaccination works best before exposure, making it ideal for preteens, teens, and young adults. Protection benefits everyone, regardless of gender. By grounding scientific facts in relatable dialogue, Gen V empowers young Filipinos to view prevention as a form of self-care, one that protects their health, their goals, and their future.

Prevention, Power, and the Role of the Youth

As a key supporter of the movement, MSD in the Philippines emphasized the importance of making preventive care accessible, inclusive, and aligned with how the youth consume information and influence one another. Prevention extends beyond vaccination, it involves routine screening for women, safer day-to-day practices, and lifestyle habits that support long-term health.

 

Caption: During the launch, participants engaged in fun but powerful conversations that clarified the myths and truths surrounding preventive health and HPV-related diseases. 

Young Filipinos were encouraged to seek credible information, consult healthcare providers, and access HPV vaccines through accredited clinics, local health centers, and select pharmacies offering immunization programs. They were also urged to foster open, judgment-free conversations about health within their circles, creating spaces where accurate information, responsible decisions, and preventive habits can be discussed without stigma.

“You are the generation that uses your platform to spark change. When prevention goes viral, it saves lives,” said Dr. Maan Galang-Escalona, Country Medical Lead of MSD in the Philippines, highlighting the influence young people wield in shaping public understanding.

She added, “Your voices, your stories, and even the simplest posts you share can shift mindsets and correct misconceptions that have persisted for years. Prevention isn’t just a medical choice—it’s an act of empowerment, one that protects your future and the people you care about. By talking openly about HPV, learning the facts, and encouraging others to do the same, you become catalysts for a healthier, more informed generation.”

Your Move Starts Now

Gen V calls on Filipino youth to lead the shift toward a culture of prevention, ask questions, learn the facts, talk openly, and take proactive steps to protect yourself and your community.

To learn more about HPV, cervical cancer prevention, and where to access vaccination, visit www.GuardAgainstHPV.ph and explore credible resources that can help you make informed choices.

By transforming awareness into action, Gen V aims to build a generation that not only protects itself but also helps others thrive, proving that when young people lead with knowledge, the whole community becomes stronger.