Girls’ Climate Advocacy Network Launches in Visayas

A new network of young female climate change advocates launched in the Visayas on Friday, October 11, in celebration of International Day of the Girl.

The group, composed of girls from Samar and Leyte, gathered to amplify the voices of those affected by disasters and empower them to lead climate action and promote disaster resilience in their communities.

Supported by Plan International Pilipinas and the Regional Sub-Committee on the Welfare of Children-Region VIII, the initiative is part of the Girls in Crisis campaign, which will run for three years. The campaign addresses the vulnerabilities faced by girls during emergencies and advocates for their participation in creating stronger policies to protect their rights.

“Frequent disasters turn children’s and young people’s lives upside down, and among them, girls and young women are the most vulnerable. They often lose their sense of security and stability, especially when home and school are affected,” said Telesforo Laplana, Disaster Preparedness and Early Response Portfolio Manager at Plan International Pilipinas.

In December 2011, the United Nations declared October 11 as International Day of the Girl, recognizing the need to empower and invest in girls. The declaration encourages the public to support girls, especially those vulnerable to discrimination and violence during climate crises.

As part of the campaign, a Youth Manifesto was read, calling for stronger government implementation of laws protecting children during disasters, increased community involvement in disaster preparedness, and the inclusion of disaster education in school curriculums.

The Regional Sub-Committee on the Welfare of Children pledged its support. “It is our commitment to advance the four categorical rights of the child: protection, survival, development, and participation,” said Francis Genell Berida, RSCWC Regional Coordinator.

Plan International Pilipinas emphasized the importance of giving girls a platform to be heard. “At your own right, you are leaders. This is proof that you have the strength. You can do it,” said Roy Soledad, Plan International Pilipinas Head of Operations-Visayas.

The Philippines is one of the most disaster-prone countries globally, frequently facing typhoons, floods, and earthquakes, which disrupt millions of lives.

A 2023 study by Plan International, Real Choices, Real Lives: Climate Change and Girls’ Education, highlighted that adolescent girls are among the most vulnerable during disasters. The study found that girls’ education is often disrupted by damaged schools, unsafe travel, and financial challenges.

Reyna, a 16-year-old from the Philippines, shared: “As a young farmer, I know how hard it is when our crops are damaged by bad weather. Sometimes I miss school, and my family struggles to put food on the table. It’s important for young people to learn how to appreciate what we have, use resources wisely, and take care of nature.”