Key Takeaways: Marcos Jr.’s Vision for Environmental Action in His 4th SONA

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. faced backlash after his fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA). Environmental groups criticized his remarks as insufficient during a time when the Philippines is grappling with climate disasters.

The Center for Energy, Ecology and Development (CEED), an independent think tank, pointed out that the president offered few concrete plans for tackling climate change. They noted a continued “business-as-usual” approach, lacking urgency in addressing environmental issues.

Marcos briefly mentioned a shift to renewable energy, but experts warned that ambitious energy projects can harm if not carefully implemented. Krishna Ariola from CEED urged the president to focus on real solutions, like cutting emissions and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

The Protect VIP group, which safeguards the Verde Island Passage marine corridor, also criticized Marcos. Father Edwin Gariguez, their lead convenor, said the president’s focus on community discipline felt like a “shameful relinquishing” of government responsibility.

Many, including Kalikasan Peoples Network for the Environment Chairperson Jonila Castro, emphasized that real disaster resilience requires more than public cooperation—it demands strong governance and accountability from those in power.

During his address, Marcos called for public cooperation and vigilance. He urged citizens to be disciplined about waste disposal and to know evacuation routes. While citizen participation is crucial, many believe the government must also present long-term solutions.

Marcos highlighted renewable energy sources like solar and wind, claiming the Philippines prioritizes these technologies. However, he also promoted natural gas, which critics argue still emits greenhouse gases and harms communities. Ariola expressed concern that this signals to energy companies that coal and gas expansion can continue.

Moreover, Marcos promised to build 200 power plants in his last three years. He cited the millions without electricity, but Gariguez pointed out that natural gas projects have devastated local fishing communities and marine ecosystems, particularly noting the severe 2023 Mindoro oil spill.

What’s more troubling is what he didn’t say. Not once did Marcos mention “environment” or “kalikasan” during his address. His only reference to climate was in the context of disaster preparedness. He acknowledged worsening disasters as the “new normal,” echoing his past statements.

Critics noted the lack of mention for harmful reclamation projects and fossil fuel developments. Marcos mostly discussed renewable energy, flood-control projects, and evacuation centers, leaving many wanting more from his environmental strategy.

Castro criticized what she termed “greenwashing,” wherein the administration promotes renewable energy while overlooking associated human rights abuses. She highlighted the alarming reality that the Philippines is the deadliest country in Asia for environmental defenders, with perpetrators often going unpunished.

This pattern suggests that if the Marcos administration is serious about addressing energy security and disaster preparedness, it must first protect the rights of communities and environmental defenders. It is crucial for development to serve all citizens, not just corporate interests.

Statistics underscore this issue: a report from Global Witness noted nearly seven in ten killings of environmental defenders in Asia happened in the Philippines in 2023. Without substantial changes, this legacy of violence and neglect will continue to harm both the environment and those attempting to safeguard it. For more information on this pressing issue, you can refer to trusted sources like [Global Witness](https://www.globalwitness.org/en/campaigns/environmental-activists/philippines/).

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