In the dynamic arena of Philippine politics, where power shifts like shifting tides, taking a firm stance on green issues becomes a complex dance of principles and pragmatism. This complexity was vividly showcased in today’s exchange at The Agenda media forum in Club Pilipino, where Ka Leony Montemayor, Chairman of the Federation of Free Farmers (FFF), and Rommel Ortega, Secretary-General of the Makakalikasan Party, engaged in a nuanced discussion.
Central to the forum were pressing national issues intricately linked with environmental concerns. The recent leadership change in the Philippine Senate, with Chiz Escudero now Senate President, sets the stage for a reconsideration of legislative priorities, especially with President Bongbong Marcos’ upcoming State of the Nation Address (SONA) and amidst China’s growing influence in Philippine politics, sparking debates on national sovereignty and West Philippine Seas conservation.
Key environmental battlegrounds were highlighted, each presenting unique challenges and opportunities. Proposed amendments to the rice tariffication law aimed at addressing food security underline the delicate balance between economic interests and sustainable agricultural practices. While small farmers seek their due benefits from this, the long-term sustainability goal remains organic food sovereignty, a vision closely aligned with the Makakalikasan Party.
The complexity of political stances was underscored by a clarificatory statement prompted by a limited question comparing nuclear energy and coal-fired power. Secretary-General Ortega clarified that while nuclear energy is cleaner than coal, it does not imply the Party’s endorsement of it.
Similarly, advocating for a mining moratorium now for future sustainable utilization where our green industrialization has already been drawn out and not the current ore-only export oriented mineral extraction doesn’t equate to being anti-mining; rather, it reflects a commitment to sustainable industrialization and resource conservation. He underscored the need for a moratorium to allow our mining-ravaged lands to rest and regenerate. This moratorium aligns with our vision of conserving resources for future sustainable utilization. The current ore-export-oriented industry lacks the necessary midstream and downstream capabilities to support a circular economic system essential for sustainable industrialization. Recycling already mined minerals should be prioritized.
SecGen Ortega acknowledged the recent legislation signed by President Marcos institutionalizing nationwide natural resource accounting. This is crucial for understanding our resource depletion and setting no-go areas for future mining activities, ensuring minerals are used for green industrialization.
On the issue of China’s influence in Philippine politics and the West Philippine Seas dispute, the Makakalikasan Party advocates for common ecological security among Asian nations, rooted in shared cultural and historical bonds.
Secretary-General Ortega reiterated the Makakalikasan Party’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions, advocating for green energy development, sustainable mining practices, and organic food security. The call for immediate and effective climate action through green governance resonates with the urgency of combating climate change and securing a sustainable future for the Philippines. Finally, he emphasized the urgent need for viable climate action in the form of GREEN COMMUNES, grounded in deep communitarian ecologism, as detailed in the party’s recent publications.
In conclusion, navigating the green maze of Philippine politics demands a holistic approach, considering environmental complexities alongside economic and geopolitical factors. It requires confronting entrenched interests and embracing innovative solutions prioritizing sustainability and ecological stewardship. As the nation stands at a crossroads, choices made today will shape our collective future, underscoring the importance of decisive action and collaborative efforts towards a greener, more resilient Philippines.
