THE Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) started the development of the Just Transition Program for the energy and transport sectors which account for 56 percent of the country’s greenhouse gas emissions.

DENR said in a statement yesterday the program is intended to minimize the adverse impacts on vulnerable sectors while the country implements its climate response and promotes sustainable development.

A Just Transition Program is intended primarily for people who are at the frontline of the transition, especially workers or retiring sectors who are at risk of unemployment, displacement and economic dislocation apart from possible vulnerabilities due to climate change.

DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga, who is also the official representative of the President to the Climate Change Commission, stressed the importance of re-skilling and upskilling the workforce in the energy and transport sectors as these are both heavily reliant on the use of conventional energy.

“The transition should focus not only on minimizing the negative impacts on affected sectors but also on equipping our workforce with the necessary skills for emerging opportunities in fields such as renewable and climate-friendly technologies,” Loyzaga said.

DENR noted the need to consider the potential of new industries that can emerge from the transition as they can provide support to conventional ones.

 The DENR also said other national government agencies like the Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Labor and Employment and the Department of Transportation have been identified as leaders for the development of the Just Transition Program.

These agencies will also lead consultations across sectors and regions in the coming months with support from the Asian Development Bank. 

These consultations will also inform the development of a National Just Transition Framework and Roadmap which will guide the Philippines in its shift to a low-carbon, sustainable and resilient economy.

In a separate statement, the DOE said the Philippines was honored at the recently concluded 2024 Asean Energy Awards, highlighting the nation’s continued commitment to energy efficiency and conservation (EEC) as well as sustainable development in the region.

DOE said for the EEC Best Practices Awards 2024 – Building and Industry Category, two local establishments were recognized for their outstanding practices in maximizing efficiency through innovative technologies and construction techniques aimed at reducing energy consumption and enhancing performance.