Texts and photos by Monsi A. Serrano
The United Kingdom reaffirmed its strong partnership with the Philippines in advancing sustainable development, ocean protection, and renewable energy through the blue economy.
Speaking at a recent event in Manila, Unlocking Blue Horizons: The Potential of Blue Finance, Blue Carbon and Blue Resilience, Ms. Ruth Davis, UK Special Representative for Nature, highlighted the deep connections between the two island nations. “The oceans and coasts are not just environmental treasures — they are central to people’s livelihoods, economic growth, and innovation. Protecting and restoring them unlocks extraordinary opportunities for communities and development,” she said.
Ms. Davis underscored the importance of the UK-Philippines Blue Planet Fund Strategy, which supports the Philippines’ Blue Carbon Roadmap and marine spatial planning. She also pointed to the UK’s global leadership in offshore wind energy and expressed enthusiasm for exploring joint opportunities with the Philippines to advance renewable energy while protecting marine ecosystems.
For his part, British Embassy Manila Chargé d’Affaires Mike Welch highlighted the vast maritime wealth of the Philippines and its crucial role in driving economic growth, creating jobs, and protecting the environment. He noted that the country’s 2.2 million square kilometers of maritime domain is a treasure trove for blue economy potential — from carbon-capturing ecosystems to offshore renewable energy and vital shipping lanes.
CDA Welch also emphasized the urgency of global collaboration, reaffirming the UK’s commitment to working closely with the Philippines, civil society, the private sector, and multilateral partners to protect oceans and secure a sustainable future.
Together, the UK and the Philippines are strengthening cooperation through initiatives such as the Coast Philippines Innovation Grant Fund, which provides support to coastal communities in developing sustainable fisheries, nature-based solutions, and innovative approaches to ecosystem management. This builds on existing collaborations in marine protected areas, mangrove restoration, seaweed farming, and early warning systems.
Ms. Davis praised the Philippines’ leadership in international climate and biodiversity efforts, particularly as a member of the High Ambition Coalition for Nature and People (30×30) and the Global Ocean Alliance. She described the country’s voice in the global community as one of “authenticity, credibility, and experience.”
“As the UK and the Philippines work together to protect biodiversity and drive innovation, we are also building a safer, more prosperous, and inclusive future,” she said.