The Climate Change Commission (CCC) stressed the vital role of barangay health workers (BHWs) in addressing climate-related health issues, as climate change increasingly threatens public health.
CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Secretary Robert E.A. Borje, during the pilot session of the Accelerated Climate Action and Transformation for Local Communities (ACT LOCAL) program in Caloocan City, said that climate change is more than an environmental issue—it’s a growing health crisis.
“Ang patuloy na pagtaas ng temperatura at pabago-bagong panahon ay nagdudulot ng paglaganap ng iba’t ibang sakit (The continuous rise in temperature and changing weather conditions are causing the spread of various diseases),” said Borje.
He emphasized that BHWs are the first responders in communities most affected by climate change. “Kayo ang frontline ng mga komunidad at katuwang sa pagsagip ng buhay mula sa anumang epekto ng climate change sa kalusugan ng tao (You are the frontline of communities and partners in saving lives from any impact of climate change on human health),” he added.
Extreme weather, rising temperatures, and shifting disease patterns are putting more pressure on vulnerable sectors. To address this, the ACT LOCAL program is designed to give communities the tools and knowledge they need to respond effectively.
Currently, around 253,000 BHWs across the country are trained in first aid, child healthcare, and immunization. Borje thanked them for their service, noting that prevention and resilience are key to saving lives amid worsening climate conditions.
The ACT LOCAL initiative is part of the Marcos administration’s whole-of-government approach to boost health and climate resilience through grassroots empowerment and science-driven solutions.
The CCC reaffirmed its commitment to support local government units and communities, ensuring that climate efforts are inclusive, sustainable, and responsive to the changing needs of Filipinos.