Highlights

• UK launches COAST Facility in the Philippines and offers grants up to £500,000 for projects in sustainable fisheries, aquaculture, and coastal protection.
• UK-Philippines partnership expands on climate adaptation, carbon markets, blue economy, and biodiversity ahead of COP30.
• Local communities and research institutions play a larger role in shaping solutions for climate resilience and sustainable development.

The UK Special Representative for Nature, Ruth Davis, recently visited the Philippines to expand partnership on climate action, ocean protection, and biodiversity conservation.

This visit comes as part of preparations for COP30, where countries will review progress on global climate goals.

By meeting with senior Philippine officials, including Environment Secretary Raphael Lotilla, Davis reaffirmed the UK’s support and opened discussions on areas such as climate adaptation, carbon markets, critical minerals, and the blue economy.

Both the UK and the Philippines agreed that protecting nature requires stronger links through platforms, including ASEAN, which the Philippines will chair in 2026. This sets the stage for closer collaboration on mobilising climate finance, sustainable resource management, and ocean conservation.

Read More: Blue Bonds: Catalysing Investment in Marine Conservation

A central moment of the trip was the launch of the UK’s Climate and Ocean Adaptation and Sustainable Transition (COAST) Facility and Innovation Grant Fund in the Philippines.

Backed by the Blue Planet Fund, this programme offers grants of up to £500,000 for local organisations.

The funding will support innovative projects in sustainable fisheries and aquaculture, blue finance, and nature-based coastal protection solutions, and provide new opportunities for community-driven development.

Philippine leaders underlined the urgency of the initiative. Senator Loren Legarda zeroed in on the need for creative financial tools such as debt-for-nature swaps and blue bonds, which could turn funding into long-term protection of natural resources.

In the meantime, Climate Change Commission Secretary Robert Borje added that success depends on involving fisherfolk, indigenous groups, and local leaders, whose knowledge and participation are paramount in shaping sustainable solutions.

In addition to policy discussions, Davis met with top organisations such as the Asian Development Bank, UNDP, and FAO to discuss resilient agri-food systems, rural transition, and scaling up climate finance.

Also Read: Money Meets Mission: The Climate Fintech Revolution

She also visited research institutions in Los Baños, including the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity and the International Rice Research Institute, recognising the Philippines’ world-class scientific expertise and its potential to guide global climate and nature action.

Through this visit, the UK signalled its commitment to building a stronger climate and ocean partnership with the Philippines, combining finance, innovation, science, and community engagement to support environmental protection and sustainable growth.

Ends/

Looking to grow your sustainable operations with expert guidance? Tap into a broad network of ESG and sustainability service providers offering a wide range of green solutions.

Stay informed with KnowESG’s Social and Governance coverage for the latest updates and insights.

Don’t miss our updated ESG Online Courses—see what's new.

Source: UK Govt.