Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno is seeking the expanded role of local government units in the fight against climate change as he backs the passage of a bill that will either regulate or tax the consumption of single-use plastics.
In a statement over the weekend, Diokno said the bill would be among the country’s contributions to the global movement to reduce pollution and adopt more sustainable practices.
He said LGUs should play a broader role in helping reduce the country’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by teaming up with the national government in implementing “green” programs, such as reforestation and the rehabilitation and development of mangroves, as well as transitioning to clean and renewable energy sources.
He said LGUs should scale up efforts in adaptation in light of the increasing vulnerability of coastal communities from extreme weather events.
Another key factor is mobilizing climate finance through the “Green Force” or the Inter-Agency Task Force for Sustainable Finance formed during the Duterte administration, Diokno said.