The National Youth Commission called for the immediate passage of the proposed Climate Change Education Act, which seeks to integrate climate change education in the science curriculum of Grade 2 to senior high school students.

The bill will capacitate young people to play an essential role in climate change adaptation and mitigation in their communities, the group said.

“This bill gives recognition to the struggles of climate advocates, both in the private and public sector, for a holistic and inclusive approach in fighting climate change. This measure will ensure that all our efforts today will bear fruit and will benefit the next generation,” NYC Commissioner Paul Pangilinan said.

Pangilinan pointed out the importance of an inclusive strategy that includes out-of-school and indigenous youth.

He also noted the need for a climate education that is “rights-based and gender-responsive,” stressing that “climate change and disasters also increase inequalities that further aggravate their impacts.”

“We are happy that our leaders see the importance of raising climate change awareness among young people through education. We hope that this measure will also take a look at how young Filipinos outside the formal education system can also meaningfully participate and make their contribution,” he said.

He reiterated that NYC continues to implement climate action and disaster resilience campaigns under its Youth in Climate Action initiative.

“This initiative has also been elevated by NYC to the regional level with the ASEAN Leaders’ adoption of the Declaration of the ASEAN Youth in Climate Action and Disaster Resilience Day which is celebrated every November 25,” he said.