Boosting Iloilo City’s Climate Resilience: How DENR’s Project TRANSFORM is Making a Difference

Iloilo City is stepping up its game in climate resilience and sustainability through an important initiative called Project TRANSFORM. This project, led by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Region 6, aims to put science and community input at the heart of local governance.

Climate change is hitting hard, and places like Iloilo are feeling the pressure. To tackle this, DENR-6 recently held a gathering for community members and businesses. They focused on how to track greenhouse gases and build a disaster management system grounded in science. This effort is all about making Iloilo a greener and safer place.

Raul Lorilla, DENR’s regional executive director, highlighted the significance of creating green spaces and infrastructure in the city. “While businesses thrive, it’s crucial they also contribute to protecting our environment,” he said. This sentiment echoes a growing awareness that sustainability must be a part of everyday business practices.

The event brought together a mix of folks—business leaders, educators, and local citizens—to discuss urban greening and carbon emissions. Experts like Jessica Dator-Bercilla, a Science Resilience Fellow, shared insights on how Project TRANSFORM can address ongoing climate challenges. They emphasized that understanding the long-term impacts of greenhouse gases is vital for city development.

Local government representatives also played a key role. Ronald Cartagena from the Iloilo City Planning Office outlined how to implement strategies from Project TRANSFORM, while Engineer Antonio P. Caliston Jr. discussed the crucial role of green infrastructure in city planning.

This initiative stands out as a pioneering effort to blend scientific knowledge, governance, and community involvement into a cohesive plan for environmental resilience. As Iloilo City takes the lead, it reflects a broader trend in which cities globally are tapping into community voices and scientific insights to battle climate change.

Recent studies show that cities with active green initiatives can reduce urban heat by up to 5 degrees Celsius. This not only enhances livability but also helps lower energy consumption significantly. As Project TRANSFORM moves forward, its success could serve as a model for other urban centers facing similar climate threats.

In summary, Project TRANSFORM is more than just a plan—it’s a path forward that acknowledges the urgent need for community action and scientific backing in creating a resilient future for Iloilo and beyond.

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