UK, PH Strengthen Climate and Nature Partnership

The United Kingdom and the Philippines deepened their climate and environmental cooperation at the 6th UK–Philippines Climate Change and Environment (CCE) Dialogue, with both sides committing to joint action on biodiversity, renewable energy, and climate finance.

Led by British Ambassador to the Philippines Sarah Hulton OBE and DENR Undersecretary Analiza Rebuelta-Teh, the dialogue highlighted shared priorities in strategic partnerships, science-informed resilience, biodiversity protection, and mobilizing finance for a just energy transition. The discussions coincided with the UK’s fifth year as an ASEAN Dialogue Partner and the 80th anniversary of UK–Philippines diplomatic relations.

The dialogue builds on milestones from 2025, including the localization of the Philippines’ National Adaptation Plan, support for sustainable mining, and a new partnership on marine ecosystems.

Ambassador Hulton emphasized the value of collaboration. “Our partnership with the Philippines reflects our shared commitment to tackling climate challenges. Today’s discussions lay the groundwork for transformative action, expanding access to climate and nature finance while ensuring growth and environmental stewardship go hand in hand,” she said.

Both countries agreed to institutionalize the Adaptation Investment Learning Course and launch the Adaptation Investment Platform, aiming to mobilize £250 million for adaptation projects in food and water sectors.

The dialogue also addressed boosting the blue economy through Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) and Blue Economy Frameworks. These initiatives will support fisheries and aquaculture, advance offshore wind development, and explore new renewable energy opportunities, including tidal and wave energy.

Undersecretary Rebuelta-Teh, speaking for incoming DENR Acting Secretary Juan Miguel Cuna, noted: “Our partnership is a strategic driver for mobilizing catalytic capital. The £250 million Adaptation Investment Platform bridges the financing gap for the Philippine National Adaptation Plan. By institutionalizing frameworks for the blue economy and offshore wind, we are shaping a resilient, net-zero future that protects our environment and people.”

The event also highlighted the role of capital markets in climate finance. Past successes, such as UK investment in the IPO of Citicore Renewables, show how strategic financing can attract institutional investors and scale nature-positive initiatives.