President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday called for stronger global cooperation and reforms in international financing systems to accelerate sustainable development and climate action, as he addressed world leaders and experts at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW).
“Borrowing costs for climate-vulnerable countries exceed growth rates, while debt burdens crowd out investments in health, education, and resilience. This is not simply a matter of finance. It is a matter of equity, stability, and shared responsibility,” Marcos said, urging reforms in global financial institutions to make climate and development funding fairer and more accessible.
Marcos said sustainability is a shared responsibility requiring action across governments, the private sector, and civil society.
“The Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week reminds us that sustainability is no longer the concern of any single sector but a shared imperative. This year’s theme, ‘The Nexus of Next: All Systems Go,’ captures this reality well. Progress today means that we must move together with purpose,” he added.
The President highlighted the Philippines’ climate and development programs, including the People’s Survival Fund, a community-led mechanism supporting vulnerable communities with adaptation projects, climate data, and technology.
“The Philippines views the People’s Survival Fund as complementing the Green Climate Fund, Adaptation Fund, and the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage—three global mechanisms where we are board members. We are also the proud host to the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage,” Marcos said.
He emphasized the administration’s “Whole-of-Nation PLUS” strategy to broaden partnerships, boost inclusivity, and accelerate renewable energy deployment, clean infrastructure, and responsible consumption. ADSW gathers global leaders to advance climate solutions, clean energy, and sustainable development.
