UNICEF Pushes Climate-Resilient Schools in Philippines

As millions of Filipino children return to class this rainy season, UNICEF Philippines is calling on the government to prioritize child-sensitive climate action by integrating education into the country’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC 3.0) ahead of COP30 in Brazil.

UNICEF’s appeal comes amid alarming data showing the Philippines ranks highest in global disaster risk for three consecutive years, with children among the most vulnerable to climate shocks.

A recent UNICEF report ranks the country second in East Asia and the Pacific in terms of climate risk from a child’s perspective.

“The climate crisis is not just changing the planet, it is changing children,” said Behzad Noubary, UNICEF Philippines Representative Ad Interim.

“Climate-related class disruptions deprive them of opportunities to develop the necessary foundational and socioemotional skills to thrive in the future,” he added.

Noubary urged the government to ensure the NDCs include adaptation measures that guarantee safe, equitable, and continuous access to education for all Filipino children.

He warned, “Later is too late. We need to transform climate goals into reality for children now.”

According to the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II) Year 2 Report, Filipino students lose up to one month of school annually due to climate-related disruptions.

The report noted schools often serve as evacuation centers during disasters, despite Republic Act No. 10821 mandating they be used only as a last resort.

The Department of Education also reportedly suffers PHP17.98 billion in annual losses due to disaster-related damage to school infrastructure, learning materials, and transportation access.

UNICEF emphasized that climate-resilient education systems not only safeguard students but also prepare school communities with knowledge and skills essential for a green economy.

The organization is calling for investments in climate-smart infrastructure, flexible learning delivery, curriculum updates, and teacher training to reduce learning loss during crises.

UNICEF also supports schools by building capacity for disaster preparedness, inclusive risk reduction, and empowering students to take part in climate advocacy.

These efforts aim to ensure education continuity and protect children’s rights as climate threats intensify across the Philippines.