On March 25, 2025, UPRI representatives Mr. Jose Abraham Ongkiko and Ms. Jerzyne Anne Corpuz participated in the UN Women-WomenbizPH Workshop and Networking Event held at the MERALCO Lighthouse. The event, titled Kababihan, Kalikasan, Kabuhayan: Building Climate-Resilient Livelihoods for Women, was organized by Women Business Council Philippines, Inc. (WomenbizPH) in partnership with UN Women.
The event began with inspiring opening remarks from Ms. Rhoda Castro Caliwara, President of WomenbizPH, who highlighted the importance of collaboration in addressing the dual challenges of climate change and its impact on women’s livelihoods. She emphasized how the rising cost of goods and environmental changes are particularly affecting Filipino women entrepreneurs, urging the need for collective action.
Undersecretary Blesila Lanyona from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) reinforced the message by highlighting that women are not only beneficiaries of climate-resilient initiatives but also pivotal contributors to building sustainable, resilient livelihoods.
Mr. Silvestre Barrameda Jr., Executive Director of the National Resilience Council (NRC), further emphasized the significant role of women in driving partnerships for climate resilience. He shared the NRC’s multi-level, multi-sectoral approach and the importance of working closely with local government units (LGUs) to integrate strategic planning for resilience and ensure continuity of services during calamities.
Ms. Rachel Ann Herrera, Commissioner of the Climate Change Commission (CCC), introduced the Green Climate Fund, which supports climate adaptation and mitigation efforts, particularly in green industries that create job opportunities for women. She highlighted the importance of fostering economic opportunities for women through industries like renewable energy, waste management, and sustainable agriculture.
The panel discussion on Sustainable Supply Chains and Financial Resilience, moderated by Attorney Loran Kapunina, featured Ms. Rosemari Rafel and Ms. Ida Ceniza Tiongson, Vice Chairperson of IC. The discussion focused on the need for efficient and strategic investments to build sustainable supply chains, emphasizing collaboration among stakeholders to ensure long-term resilience.
Ms. Mitzi Jonelle Tan, representing the youth sector, brought forth a compelling perspective on gender and climate issues. She urged for urgent action, justice, and climate finance, stressing that young people must be included in decision-making processes to create inclusive and gender-responsive climate actions.
The session concluded with Ms. Angie Tijam presenting the KITA Initiative, an empowering case study on women entrepreneurs. The KITA Initiative focuses on providing women with the tools, resources, and training necessary to create and sustain businesses, fostering economic independence and leadership in their communities.
Finally, the event wrapped up with an interactive open forum, where participants shared valuable insights, discussed challenges, and explored ways forward to empower women through climate resilience and sustainable development.