CFO, UN Laureate Launch Global Climate Action Program

The Commission on Filipinos Overseas has launched a landmark partnership with UN Sasakawa Laureate Glenn Banaguas to transform diaspora engagement through climate action and sustainability programs.

The initiative, led by CFO Chairperson and Secretary Dante “Klink” Ang II, aims to position overseas Filipinos as key players in global environmental resilience and innovation.

At the center of the collaboration is the Programs for Climate Action in the Diaspora, a groundbreaking effort to connect overseas Filipinos with climate-focused projects in the Philippines and their countries of residence.

These include investments in renewable energy, community-based reforestation, and climate-smart enterprises that integrate sustainable agriculture and eco-innovations.

“By bridging scientific expertise, CFO ensures that Filipinos abroad do not only remain connected to their homeland but actively shape its future, contributing to national and global climate resilience,” the commission said.

Through Banaguas’ internationally recognized leadership in science diplomacy, the program taps into the unique strengths of the diaspora to support clean energy solutions, biodiversity conservation, and carbon sequestration.

Another pillar of the initiative is climate education and capacity-building for overseas Filipinos, delivered through CFO’s Community Education Program and specialized workshops.

These activities aim to improve understanding of climate adaptation, disaster risk reduction, and environmental sustainability.

Filipinos abroad will be trained to develop localized solutions, support environmental policies, and promote sustainable financing strategies aligned with national and global goals.

“Equipping Filipinos worldwide with scientific tools and evidence-based knowledge fosters an engaged global citizenry capable of driving meaningful change,” Banaguas said.

The partnership builds on CFO’s long-standing programs such as LINKAPIL and Peso Sense, which support diaspora-driven development projects.

By integrating climate science and sustainability into these platforms, CFO redefines its mandate to include environmental governance and global cooperation.

The initiative also supports the Philippine Development Plan and aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those addressing climate justice, disaster preparedness, and environmental security.

“Together, we set a new benchmark for diaspora engagement in climate action,” Banaguas added.

“This is more than a shared vision. It is a catalyst for change.”

CFO said the partnership reflects a broader push to engage Filipinos across borders not just as remittance senders but as leaders in climate resilience and sustainability.

By uniting science-based strategies with community-driven action, the agency seeks to expand its influence in shaping global discourse on environmental diplomacy and ethical governance.

“Filipinos worldwide are not just contributors to their homeland’s growth,” Ang said.

“They are architects of its sustainable future.”