JG Summit Holdings, Inc. recently hosted an insightful learning session in partnership with Carbon PH Coalition, bringing together government leaders and industry representatives to deepen understanding of the Philippines’ climate policy and financing landscape.
The program opened with remarks from Yvonne Flores, JG Summit Sustainability Head, who emphasized the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in accelerating climate action and building long-term resilience across communities.
From left to right: Ezra Barboza, Carbon Project Consultant, Aboitiz Equity Venture Inc.; Congressman Jose Manuel “Manoy” Alba of Bukidnon’s 1st District; Yvonne Flores, Sustainability Head - JG Summit Holdings, Inc.; Director John Adrian M. Narag, Department of Finance; Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar, Chief Reputation and Sustainability Officer - Aboitiz Equity Venture Inc.
The discussion began with Director John Narag from the Department of Finance, who shared how climate finance mechanisms can empower Local Government Units (LGUs) to strengthen adaptation and mitigation efforts. He explained eligibility requirements for accessing climate finance, common barriers faced by smaller municipalities, and the DOF’s ongoing capacity-building programs that help LGUs prepare bankable and impactful climate projects. Director Narag also highlighted successful blended finance models and underscored the need for transparency and accountability in climate fund utilization.
The conversation then shifted to climate legislation with Congressman Jose Manuel “Manoy” Alba of Bukidnon’s 1st District, who discussed key climate-related bills currently being deliberated in Congress. Drawing from insights from COP30, he highlighted how proposed measures—especially those under the Demand Asset Market approach—could open pathways for more investable climate projects in the Philippines. He also stressed the importance of alignment with agencies such as the Department of Finance and the Climate Change Commission to ensure effective implementation once the bills are enacted.
Bukidnon 1st District Representative Hon. Jose Manuel "Manoy" Alba discusses the need for a complete legislative architecture supporting economic resilience in the face of climate change.
Both discussions culminated in an engaging open forum, where participants asked practical and forward-looking questions related to climate finance access for LGUs, ways to align local climate action with national priorities, and opportunities in green bonds and carbon markets. Attendees also inquired about private sector roles in supporting proposed climate legislation, scaling carbon investments, and demonstrating to policymakers how climate bills can unlock jobs and economic growth.
Attendees at the Carbon PH Education Series 2025 session hosted by JG Summit and Carbon PH Coalition.
The learning session marked an important step in strengthening collaboration between government and industry in pursuit of a more sustainable future. By creating a platform where policymakers, technical experts, and private sector leaders can openly exchange insights, JG Summit reinforces its commitment to fostering informed action, enabling climate investments, and empowering local communities. The company looks forward to building on this momentum—continuing to support knowledge-sharing initiatives, contribute to national climate goals, and champion solutions that advance resilience, innovation, and inclusive growth for the Philippines.
