Drivers and Barriers in Climate i UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES
OPEN UNIVERSITY
MASTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT
RUBY ROSE S. POLICARPIO
DRIVERS AND BARRIERS IN CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION AND ADAPTATION IN INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT IN ILOILO PROVINCE
Thesis Adviser:
DR. RAMIRO PLOPINO
Faculty of Management and Development Studies
12 February 2023
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DRIVERS AND BARRIERS IN CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION AND ADAPTATION IN INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT IN ILOILO PROVINCE
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Drivers and Barriers in Climate iii Acceptance Page:
This Special Project titled: DRIVERS AND BARRIERS IN CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION AND ADAPTATION IN INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT IN ILOILO PROVINCE is hereby accepted by the Faculty of Management and Development Studies, U.P. Open University, in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree Master of Environment and Natural Resources Management.
DR. RAMIRO PLOPINO 3/1/2023
Faculty-in-Charge, ENRM 290 (Special Problem) (Date)
DR. CONSUELO DL. HABITO
Program Chair (Date)
DR. JOANE V. SERRANO Dean
Faculty of Management and Development Studies _________________
(Date)
3/8/2023
10 March 2023
Drivers and Barriers in Climate iv DECLARATION
This is to certify that:
I. The special problem comprises only my original work towards the MENRM except where indicated in the Preface.
II. Due acknowledgment has been made in the text to all other material used.
III. The special problem is fewer than 25,000 words in length, exclusive of tables, maps, bibliographies and appendices.
____________________________________
Ruby Rose S. Policarpio
Drivers and Barriers in Climate v Acknowledgment
The completion of this work has been possible through the constant love and inspiration from my siblings, Seigfred, April, and Sundy. I am forever grateful for the strength and comfort you are providing when lifes challenges seem gargantuan.
To the rest of my family, and colleagues, friends, acquaintances who continue to inspire me through their selflessness to continue to do good; who endure hardship to reach their goals; who find beauty in the journey despite the difficulties; who seize potentials of cohesion in diversity; and who value learning in every correction, thank you for sharing with me a part of yourselves and for the inspiration to persevere in this educational journey.
I am grateful to my ENRM 290 adviser, Dr. Ramiro Plopino, for his patience in providing inputs, guidance, and insights that enabled me to complete this paper. To Dr. Consuelo Habito, Program Chair, and all my mentors in UPOU, I am thankful for the immense learning.
All of you have been part of my growth.
Drivers and Barriers in Climate vi TABLE OF CONTENTS
Title Page i
University Permission Page ii
Acceptance Page iii
Declaration iv
Acknowledgment v
Table of Contents vi
List of Tables vii
List of Figures ix
List of Appendices x
ABSTRACT xi
I. INTRODUCTION 1
II. REVIEW OF LITERATURE 5
III. STATEMENT OF THE STUDY 25
IV. OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY 29
V. RATIONALE 30
VI. SCOPE AND LIMITATIONS 31
VII. DESCRIPTION OF THE STUDY AREA 33
VIII. METHODOLOGY 35
IX. RESULTS 39
X. ANALYSIS AND DISCUSSION 82
XI. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION 84
XII. REFERENCES 87
Drivers and Barriers in Climate vii List of Tables
Table 1 Respondents 36
Table 2 Respondents and Number of Years in their Current Designation/Position 39 Table 3 Respondents and Positions they Occupied Prior to their Current
Positions 40
Table 4 Educational Background and Relevant Education/Training of
Respondents 40
Table 5 Relevant Training of Respondents on Environmental Management/Climate
Change Mitigation/Climate Change Adaptation 41
Table 6 Relevance of Respondents Key Responsibilities to Climate Change
Mitigation and/or Adaptation 42
Table 7 Importance of Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation 43 Table 8 Respondents Responses to Cost-effectiveness, Environmental Soundness, and Capacity for Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation of the Utilization of Renewable Energy for Supplying Power to Local Government Infrastructures 45 Table 9 Respondents Responses to Cost Effectiveness, Environmental Soundness, and Capacity for Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation of Rainwater Harvesting for Supplying Water to Local Government Infrastructures 49 Table 10 Respondents Responses to Cost-effectiveness, Environmental
Soundness, and Capacity for Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation of the Integration of Green Spaces in Local Government Infrastructures 54 Table 11 Periodicity of Infrastructure Projects Implementation 57
Table 12 Form of Infrastructure Activities 58
Table 13 Annual Allocation for Infrastructure Activities 59 Table 14 National Support for Infrastructure Projects 60
Drivers and Barriers in Climate viii Table 15 Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Measures in LGU
Infrastructures 61
Table 16 Infrastructure Projects that Have Integrated Climate Change Mitigation and
Adaptation Measures 62
Table 17 Drivers of Integration of Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation
Measures in Local Government Infrastructures 68
Table 18 Barriers to Integration of Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation
Measures in Local Government Infrastructures 70
Table 19 Mechanisms for Enhancing the Integration of Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Measures in Local Government Infrastructures 76
Drivers and Barriers in Climate ix List of Figures
Figure 1 Conceptual Framework of the Study 27
Drivers and Barriers in Climate x List of Appendices
Appendix 1 Questionnaire 97
Appendix 2 Infrastructure Projects Implemented in the Municipality of Dumangas,
from 2019-2021 115
Drivers and Barriers in Climate xi Abstract
Anchored on the importance of local governments in national and global climate change initiatives, this study delves into the drivers of, barriers to, and recommendations for, enhancing the integration of climate change mitigation and adaptation measures in local government infrastructures in Dumangas, Iloilo, Philippines.
As a qualitative study, analysis was undertaken per review of Dumangas Municipality s annual accomplishment reports, development and action plans, ordinances, and other local policies; and responses of respondents to a semi- structured questionnaire. Using purposive sampling, 60 local government officials were targeted as respondents and received the questionnaire; 47 of the 60 target respondents (78%) completed and returned the questionnaires.
Current drivers of climate change mitigation and adaptation in local government infrastructures in Dumangas include the presence of champions/avid supporters, financial assistance from foreign/national donors, and technical assistance from foreign/national donors. Local capacities, local funds dedicated to climate change mitigation and adaptation measures, and climate change mitigation and adaptation measures imbedded into Local Comprehensive Development Plan/Local Climate Change Plan, are not playing key roles in the current integration of climate change mitigation and adaptation measures into local government infrastructures.
Barriers to climate change mitigation and adaptation measures integration in local government infrastructures are difficulties in conceptualizing the design,
Drivers and Barriers in Climate xii allocating funds, sourcing out materials, obtaining expertise, and legislating local ordinances.
Recommendations for enhancing the integration of climate change mitigation and adaptation in local government infrastructures, to supplement and complement the current drivers, include the establishing of technical expertise, capacity building of local government officials, putting in place of local legislations with annual fund allocation, and strengthening of executive-legislative coordination.
Validation of the study could be conducted in other LGUs, for strengthening climate change adaptation and mitigation policies and initiatives in specific municipalities and/or across municipalities in the Philippines.
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 1 I. INTRODUCTION
Background of the Study
Climate change is defined by the United Nations (1992) as the change of climate influenced, directly or indirectly, by anthropogenic activities that have
increased greenhouse gasses concentrations in the atmosphere. This increases the warming of the earth, causing adverse impacts on ecosystems and societies.
Managing climate change is two-pronged: mitigation, for reducing greenhouse gasses/carbon emissions or augmenting carbon sinks (United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change [UNFCCC], n.d.); and adaptation, for responding to climate impacts to reduce anticipated damages and advancing opportunities
(UNFCCC, n.d.). Mitigation, in the context of climate change, refers to activities that reduce greenhouse gasses emissions and increases sinks for absorbing these emissions (UNFCCC, n.d.). On the other hand, adaptation is alterations in
processes, practices, and structures to moderate potential damages or to benefit from opportunities associated with climate change (UNFCCC, n.d.).
While the above can be undertaken separately, efforts can be pursued at synergizing these strategies (Hoppe et al., 2014; Duguma et al., 2014a, as cited by Ngum et al., 2018), as both mitigation and adaptation are important, and synergizing both measures could multiply their benefits (Duguma et al., 2014a, as cited by Ngum et al., 2018).
Infrastructure, defined as the system of public works of a country, state or region (Merriam-Webster Dictionary, n.d.) is strategic for climate change mitigation and adaptation (United Nations Office for Project Services [UNOPS], 2021). While
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 2 salient for development (Independent Evaluation Group [IEG], 2007) and essential in managing climate risks (Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development [OECD], 2018), infrastructures also contribute to the acceleration of greenhouse gas emissions (IEG, 2007) that is conducive to global warming-induced climate change.
Hence, with investments in appropriate technology, the salience of infrastructures being crucial to both reduction of carbon emissions and coping with future climate is recognized (IPCC, 2007, as cited by Lindfield and Steinberg, 2012; UNOPS, 2021).
This potential of infrastructures in merging various functionalities, including that for contributing to reduced carbon emissions, decreased environmental disturbances, and enhanced resilience have been acknowledged in many countries. Munyasya and Chileshe (2018) enthused that the acceleration of the economic, social, and environmental balance can be attributed to infrastructure, among others, in various developing states. Similarly, United Nations Environment Programme [UNEP, n.d.]
underscores that a key area for reducing adverse impacts on the environment while contributing to sustainable development goals advancement is the sector of building and construction.
Anchored on the concepts of green buildings and green infrastructures, this study brings forward the role of Philippine local government infrastructure development in climate change mitigation and adaptation.
The significance of introducing measures for the reduction of the carbon footprint from infrastructures has been paramount following the cognizance of the massive spike in energy and resource use and greenhouse gasses (GHGs) emissions (Van den Bosch et al., 2004). This growth is calculated at around 70% from the pre- industrial period (IPCC, 2007 as cited by Lindfield and Steinberg, 2012). This
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 3 recognition put into context the importance, particularly of urban areas as incubators for innovation vis-à-vis green economy which strives for, among others, a low-carbon and resource-efficient economy. The concept of future cities, previously revolving around the qualities of inclusiveness and equality, has broadened to also include resilience to climate change particularly reduced carbon consumption and ecological footprints resulting in demand for low-/zero-carbon areas (UNEP, 2011 as cited by Lindfield and Steinberg, 2012). As infrastructures are consequential to climate change mitigation, they are similarly of import in climate change adaptation, particularly due to their capacity to protect essential services and shield the population from climate change impacts (UNOPS, 2021).
Moreover, the salience of climate change, while being a global phenomenon, is at the local level where the causes are generated (Fagiewicz et al., 2021) and the degree by which action can be undertaken (Hoppe et al., 2014; Deri and Alam, 2008) and sustained for environmental protection (Hoppe et al., 2014) and resilience (Deri and Alam, 2008). As rural communities are converted into built-up areas, the
importance of integration of climate change mitigation and adaptation measures in infrastructures is ubiquitous amid pressures associated with a changing climate.
In the Philippines, due to the devolution of powers as mandated by RA 7160 or the Local Government Code of 1991, local government units (LGUs) particularly municipalities and cities are in the strategic position of authority to implement development initiatives that integrate measures in infrastructures for climate change mitigation and adaptation. Through development plans and zoning/building codes, among others, LGUs can stipulate appropriate infrastructure requirements that are aligned with national/local policies.
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 4 This study pores into the drivers and barriers of the integration of climate change mitigation and adaptation measures into local government-funded and/or local government-facilitated infrastructures in a local government in the Philippines, the Dumangas Municipality in Iloilo Province, considering that the extent to which the country achieves its national targets in reducing carbon emissions and making
institutions and communities resilient to climate change impacts rely on contributions of local governments.
By climate change mitigation and adaptation measures, this study specifically focuses on a) utilization of renewable energy sources to provide power to local government infrastructures, b) rainwater harvesting for supplying water to local government facilities, and c) integration of green spaces/vegetation areas in local government infrastructures.
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 5 II. REVIEW OF LITERATURE
Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation in Infrastructures and Related Concepts
Climate change is defined by the United Nations (n.d.) as the change of climate over time influenced by anthropogenic activities; this climate change is on top of natural climate variability. UNFCCC (2006) elaborates that anthropogenic activities cause GHG emissions, trapping heat and increasing warming over the earth, which leads to shifts in climate patterns and increased risks associated with climate-related events.
Climate change management is a two-pronged approach: climate change mitigation and adaptation. Climate change mitigation is the reduction of GHG emissions that lead to anthropogenic-driven warming of the earth. Strategies for climate change mitigation include making buildings more energy efficient, shifting to renewable sources of energy, and promoting sustainable land and forest uses (Global Environment Facility [GEF], 2021). On the other hand, climate change adaptation refers to changes in processes, practices, and structures to moderate potential damages or to benefit from opportunities associated with climate change (UNFCCC, n.d.). Climate change adaptation can include infrastructure modifications, behavioral changes, and shifts in agricultural practices (World Wildlife Fund [WWF], 2021), early warning system establishment, improved communication mechanisms, better business environments, and tailored government policies (UNFCCC, n.d.), to suit the anticipated future climate. IPCC (2014), in its Fifth Assessment Report, iterates investments in environmentally sound technologies and infrastructure for
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 6 enabling climate change mitigation and adaptation both investments contributing to curbing carbon emissions and improving resilience to future climate.
Meanwhile, infrastructure, in this study, is referred to as material public capital as put forward by Nijkamp (2000) and cited by Buhr (2003). Material public capital includes buildings, roads, railways, ports, pipelines, and other relevant facilities.
The salience for introducing measures for the reduction of the carbon footprint from infrastructures has been paramount following the recognition of the massive spike in energy and resource use and GHG emissions (Van den Bosch et al., 2004).
This growth is calculated at around 70% from the pre-industrial period (IPCC, 2007 as cited by Lindfield and Steinberg, 2012). This recognition put into context the importance, particularly of urban areas as incubators for innovation vis-à-vis green economy which strives for, among others, a low-carbon and resource-efficient economy. The concept of future cities, previously revolving around the qualities of inclusiveness and equality, has broadened to also include resilience to climate
change particularly reduced carbon consumption and ecological footprints resulting in demand for low-/zero-carbon areas (UNEP, 2011 as cited by Lindfield and
Steinberg, 2012).
Climate change adaptation, on the other hand, complements climate change mitigation and is indispensable for managing/reducing the negative impacts of climate change (Government of Canada, 2015). According to IPCC (2007), as cited by Mimura et al. (2010), while climate change may be mitigated, the possible extent of climate change impacts in the future necessitates climate change adaptation strategies for ensuring safe, secure, and sustainable societies.
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 7 This study builds upon the concepts of green buildings and green
infrastructures as mechanisms for climate change mitigation and adaptation. Green buildings, as defined by Allen et al. (2015), pin on minimizing environmental impacts via the reduction in energy and water usage and environmental disturbances, and enhancing human health through healthy indoor environments. This is aligned with UNEP (n.d.). which put forward the Sustainable Buildings and Climate Initiative (SBCI), in 2006, with foci on a) energy efficiency and b) reduction of GHG emission;
and Environmental Protection Agency [EPA, 2013], which put forward that the goal of sustainable building designs is for the integration of local ecology into design and construction to reduce impacts to the environment and enhance the quality of life.
On the other hand, the concept of green infrastructure according to Wright (2011) as cited by Baro et al., (2015) continues to evolve, and thus lacks a clear and single definition; the concept has been used across disciplines, with conceptually variable meanings (European Environment Agency [EEA], 2011 as cited by Baro et al., 2015). Baro et al. (2015), taking forward European Commission (2013), iterates that green infrastructure integrates green spaces (or blue spaces for aquatic
ecosystems). On the other hand, the European Commission s Green Infrastructure Strategy identifies green infrastructure as a strategically planned network of natural and semi-natural areas with other environmental features designed and managed to deliver a wide range of ecosystem services in both rural and urban settings
(European Commission, 2013 as cited by EEA, 2020). In the green infrastructure concept, gray spaces refer to man-made, constructed infrastructure. The green infrastructure concept adheres to multi-functionality, taking forward various functions of the same land area for ensuring a healthy ecosystem and its associated goods and services (EEA, 2020). Moreover, the United States Environmental Protection
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 8 Agency (2015) espouses green infrastructure as using natural processes to improve water quality and manage water quantity by restoring the hydrologic function of the urban landscape, managing stormwater at its source, and reducing the need for additional gray infrastructure in many instances . The United States Environmental Protection Agency (2015) further elaborates that green infrastructure practices can be integrated into existing features of the built environment, including streets, parking lots and landscaped areas . Further, Benedict and McMahon (2006) as cited by Interreg (n.d.) defines green infrastructure as an interconnected network of natural areas and other open spaces that conserves natural ecosystem values and
functions, sustains clean air and water, and provides a wide array of benefits to people and wildlife .
Anchored on these concepts of green buildings and green infrastructures, this study brings forward the role of infrastructure development in local governments in the Philippines particularly in the Municipality of Dumangas for both climate change mitigation and adaptation. This potential of infrastructures to merge various functionalities, including that for contributing to reduced carbon emissions and resilience to climate-related events, has been acknowledged in many countries.
Munyasya and Chileshe (2018) enthused that the acceleration of the economic, social, and environmental balance can be attributed to infrastructure, among others, in various developing states. Similarly, UNEP (n.d.) underscores that a key area for reducing adverse impacts on the environment while contributing to sustainable development goals advancement is the sector of building and construction.
In this study, climate change mitigation and adaptation measures in local government infrastructures refer specifically to:
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 9 utilization of renewable energy for supplying power to local government
infrastructures
rainwater harvesting for supplying water to local government infrastructures injection of green spaces/vegetation areas in local government infrastructures
Anthropogenic Global Warming
The vast majority of relevant studies attribute the rapid shifts in climate to anthropogenic activities causing increased emissions of greenhouse gases (Johnson et al., 2021). While many GHGs are naturally occurring, human activities have been increasing greenhouse gasses concentration in the atmosphere (European
Commission, n.d.) from the pre-industrial period owing to economic development and population increase (IPCC, 2014; Johnson et al., (2021) and have been
considered the biggest global warming contributor. Of the anthropogenic greenhouse gases, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and fluorinated gases are the most prominent. (European Commission, n.d.). According to the IPCC (2014), the atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide have been unprecedented in at least the last 800 years. Their effects, together with those of other anthropogenic drivers, have been detected throughout the climate system and are extremely likely to have been the dominant cause of the observed warming since the mid-20th century.
Over 50% of greenhouse gas emissions have been observed in recent decades, with the period between 2000 and 2010 observing the most substantial increases from 1970 (Johnson et al., 2021). The increased greenhouse gases
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 10 concentration is attributed mainly to the burning of fossil fuels (Seman, n.d.; Johnson et al., 2021).
Infrastructure (energy, transport, water, waste management, digital
communications) contributes 79% of all greenhouse gas emissions (UNOPS, 2021).
Considering the contribution of infrastructure to greenhouse gas emissions, Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) of countries focus significantly on sustainable infrastructure as a key mitigation strategy. Decision-making in
infrastructure is crucial to achieving the various targets and objectives of both the Paris Agreement and the SDGs (UNOPS, 2021).
Observed Climate and Climate Change Scenarios in the Philippines and Potential Implications
Temperature
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services
Administration (PAGASA, 2018) records an average warming of 0.1 C per decade in the Philippines, based on an analysis of observed climate data from 1951 to 2015.
This average warming in annual mean temperature is reflected in the rise of the annual maximum temperature of about 0.05 C per decade and the rise in annual minimum temperature of around 0.15 C per decade. The warming trend is likely to persist in the future.
Per analysis of historical temperature data and based on moderate emission scenario (i.e. Representative Concentration Pathway RCP 4.5), the temperature in
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 11 the Philippines is projected to increase by 0.9 C to 1.9 C by around 2036-2065.
Analyzed using the same moderate emission scenario, the period 2070-2099 is likely to be warmer where the increase in temperature could be within 1.3 C 2.5 C
against baseline temperature. On the other hand, applying a high emission scenario (RCP8.5), the period 2036 2065 is likely to be warmer by 1.2 C 2.3 C, while the period 2070 2099 is projected to have a temperature increase from 2.5 C 4.1 C against baseline temperature (PAGASA, 2018).
Rainfall
Analysis of historical rainfall data from 1951 to 2010 indicates decreasing rainfall trends over Northern Luzon, Palawan, Western Visayas, and Central and Western Mindanao. Increasing rainfall behavior, on the other hand, is observed particularly in Central Luzon, Eastern Visayas, and Northeastern and Southwestern Mindanao at a rate of 10mm to 40mm per decade; the increasing rainfall trend in these areas is influenced by extreme rainfall events (PAGASA, 2018).
PAGASA s (2018) analysis of rainfall data shows that rainfall variability in the Philippines is both spatial and temporal (i.e. seasonal). The rainfall trend is
significantly increasing in Northeastern Mindanao and Eastern Visayas from
December to February; an increasing rainfall trend is also recorded in Central Luzon and Northeastern Mindanao from March to May. Moreover, a similar upward rainfall trend is analyzed for Southern and Northern Ilocos Region, and Northeastern and Southern Mindanao from June to August and from September to October; for the same period, a downward rainfall trend is registered in many areas of the
Philippines. In PAGASA s (2018) analysis using the same baseline rainfall data,
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 12 significantly lesser rainfall is observed in Northeastern Luzon, and Central and
Northwestern Mindanao across nearly all the seasons.
Rainfall projections for the Philippines, using the 1971-2000 baseline period and considering RCP8.5, suggest the highest rainfall reduction of 40%, especially in Mindanao, by 2036-2065; the highest possible rainfall increase, moreover, could be over 40%, especially in Luzon, Western Visayas, and some areas in Mindanao. The median potential rainfall conditions in the future are estimated to be within the range of natural variability, except for Central Mindanao which may exhibit drier conditions for the seasons September to November and December to February (PAGASA, 2018).
Tropical Cyclones
PAGASA (2018), in its analysis of tropical cyclone data from 1951-2015, found a slight downward trend in the incidence and landfall of tropical cyclones within the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR). On the other hand, from 1980 to 2015, the incidence of very strong tropical cyclones (i.e. over 170 kph in maximum
sustained winds) has slightly increased.
Applying the RCP8.5 GHG concentration scenario and analyzing simulations from five regional climate models, the behavior of tropical cyclones in the Philippines from 2036 to 2065 suggests a likelihood of a decrease in incidence (i.e. three models suggest a decrease in incidence; two models suggest potential no change), and increase in intensity (i.e. four models projects increase in intensity, with two suggesting that the increase is significant). Further, outputs of model simulations indicate marked inter-annual variability in the future PAGASA (2018).
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 13 These projected future behaviors in temperature, rainfall, and tropical
cyclones, among others, are likely to impact various sectors. These also provide avenues for enhancing adaptation measures for the reduction of risks and managing opportunities.
Policies on Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation in Infrastructure Development
The direction towards the greening of infrastructures is embodied in the Local Agenda 21, born of the 1992 Rio Earth Summit, for supporting the achievements of relevant targets of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs); and reiterated during the 2012 Rio+20 UN Conference on Sustainable Development (United Nations, 2012, as cited by Lindfield and Steinberg, 2012). Moreover, Lindfield and Steinberg (2012) underscore that the said direction is especially relevant in Asia-Pacific where energy and carbon are consumed and GHGs are emitted immensely due to the regional economic growth. Additionally, UNEP (n.d.), building on the World Bank (1994), OECD (2007), G20 Argentina 2018 (n.d.), and the Global Commission on the Economy and Climate (2018), iterates the indubitable relationship between
infrastructure and development (i.e. infrastructure as among the key drivers of development), which has been recognized for more than two decades; the focus on the same has zeroed-in on sustainable infrastructure for supporting the achievement of relevant Sustainable Development Goals. This is further supported by Stagrum et al. (2020) as they put forward that the anticipated exacerbated pressures from a changing climate on built structures necessitate adaptation measures for
sustainability.
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 14 In the Philippines, the government has committed to a reduction of 70% in carbon emissions by 2030 (ASEAN Briefing, 2017). Further, building on the potential impacts and challenges associated with climate change, the Philippine Government has put in place its climate change agenda via various policies (Republic of the Philippines, 2015).
Pursuing its global commitments and addressing national and local requirements, in the context of climate change mitigation and adaptation, the Philippine government put in place the following policies, among others:
The Philippine Green Building Code (2015), a Referral Code to Presidential Decree (P.D.) No. 1096, defines green building as adopting measures that promote resource management efficiency and site sustainability while minimizing the negative impact of buildings on human health and the
environment . Specifically, the Philippine Green Building Code sets minimum standards for enhancing building efficiency for enhancing the quality of life and mitigating climate change. These minimum standards relate to a) energy efficiency, b) water efficiency, c) material sustainability, d) solid waste
management, e) site sustainability, and f) indoor environmental quality.
Republic Act (RA) No. 9729 or the Climate Change Act of 2009 provides the integration of climate change in policy, development, poverty reduction, and others, and mandates the formulation, planning, and implementation of Local Climate Change Action Plans in LGUs.
RA No. 10121 or An Act Strengthening the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management System, Providing for the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Framework and Institutionalizing the National Disaster Risk
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 15 Reduction and Management Plan, Appropriating Funds Therefor and for other Purposes puts forward proactive changes to its predecessor, the P.D. 1566 or the Strengthening the Philippine Disaster Control, Capability and Establishing the National Program on Community Disaster Preparedness, for enhancing preparedness for and response to natural disaster and climate change risks.
RA No. 7279 or the Urban Development and Housing Act of 1992 commits to reduction in urban dysfunctions, particularly those that adversely affect public health, safety and ecology ; and specifies that LGUs coordinate with DENR for mechanisms for planning and regulating urban activities for the
conservation and protection of vital, unique and sensitive ecosystems, scenic landscapes, cultural sites and other similar resource areas
RA No. 9513, or An Act Promoting the Development, Utilization and
Commercialization of Renewable Energy Resources and For Other Purposes otherwise known as the Renewable Energy Act of 2008, promotes the
development of renewable energy resources including solar energy for energy self-reliance to shield the local economy from fluctuations of fossil fuel prices in the international markets and for effectively curbing greenhouse gases emissions for balancing the growth and development of the economy and environmental health.
RA No. 6716 or An Act Providing for the Construction of Water Wells, Rainwater Collectors, Development of Springs and Rehabilitation of Existing Water Wells in All Barangays in the Philippines promotes the tapping of rainwater for ensuring water supply in all barangays in the Philippines.
Anchored on the Urban Development and Housing Act of 1992, the Climate Change Act of 2009, the Disaster Risk Reduction Management Act of 2010,
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 16 and the Local Government Code of 1991, the National Urban Development and Housing Framework (NUDHF) 2017-2022 puts forward as one of its key framework principles the sustainable urban environment, where protection of ecosystems and urban biodiversity, and efficient, affordable, and clean energy are part of key considerations in local development planning.
Salience of Local Actors in Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation
The role of local actors in realizing the impacts of climate change mitigation and adaptation interventions is immense. This is in conjunction, where applicable, with the role of international and national actors (i.e. donors, governments, and technical institutions) in facilitating enabling environments, and financial and technical resources for climate change mitigation and adaptation interventions (International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies [IFRC] et al., 2009). In the context of mitigation, development anchored on international
commitments, and alignment of priorities nationally, sub-nationally, and locally, is essential (Keskitalo, et al., 2016). Particularly on adaptation, the level of impact locally depends largely on the capacity of local actors to respond to anticipated changes (World Resources Institute [WRI], n.d. as cited by IFRC, 2009; UNFCCC, 2009); the value of adaptation measures is in its on-ground impacts and how, and the capacity of, local actors particularly local authorities and community-based organizations integrate into the process is pivotal (UNFCCC, 2009).
Local governments are key to responding to climate change in many studies, local governments are identified as key actors in sustainability. This role is rooted, among others, in the local governments extensive connection with people
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 17 and business entities thus, which provide local governments the impetus to act as an example and to facilitate local action ; and on the local governments immense potential to influence change due to direct impacts, of local decisions, to the environment. These local decisions can include regulation of local transportation, building construction, spatial planning, and economic matters (Hoppe et al., 2014).
Hoppe et al. (2014) and Agrawal et al. (2008) elaborate that responses of communities to environment-related challenges have been historically honed by local institutions. These same institutions, hence, are instruments for converting extrinsic climate change intervention initiatives locally. And this local nature of climate change interventions underscores the crucial function of local institutions in the direction of climate change-related measures and the capacity building of the vulnerable.
Agrawal et al. (2008) identify that local institutions could include civic, public, and private in their formal and informal forms . They further defined local public
institutions to include local governments/agencies.
In the Philippines, Republic Act No. 7160 or the Local Government Code of 1991 decentralized powers execution, resources management, and services delivery vis-à-vis various government priorities to local governments (provinces, cities,
municipalities, and barangays). This decentralization of execution of powers,
management of resources, and services delivery emphasizes the importance of local government units (LGUs) in pursuing initiatives for meeting national and local
policies; the delivery of basic services in health agriculture, social welfare, and environmental sectors have been entrusted to local governments (Asian Development Bank [ADB], n.d.).
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 18 Climate Change Mitigation Measures in Local Government Infrastructures in
the Philippines
Renewable Energy Sources and Applications
The Philippines is among Asian countries where power prices are most expensive due largely to its dependence on coal and diesel sourced abroad, despite the country s possession of viable sources of renewable energy (Ahmed, 2019;
Marquardt, 2017). The optimization of the development and utilization of renewable energy sources is key to the Philippines strategy for low carbon emissions (Agaton and Karl, 2018); the country has vast, yet mostly untapped, sources of renewable energy. The country s medium- and long-term targets in renewable energy are fueled by its goal of being energy-secure and front runner in a) geothermal energy global stage, b) utilization of wind energy in Southeast Asia, and c) solar manufacturing in the region. The DOE s 2012-2030 Philippine Energy Plan (PEP) underscores the promotion of a low-carbon future and a climate-proof energy sector, among others (Brahim, 2014).
While addressing climate change, renewable energy sources also respond to issues of energy security and access to energy (Department of Energy [DOE], 2012 as cited by Agaton and Karl, 2018). Renewable energy sources are copious, cleaner, and highly available, and thus promising as alternatives to fossil fuel-based energy sources (Agaton and Karl, 2018). However, due to a variety of reasons, renewable energy sources only accounts for about 14% of the energy generation mix in the world in 2015 (International Energy Agency [IEA], 2017 as cited by Agaton and Karl, 2018); in the same year in the Philippines, renewable energy sources sum up to 25%
of the national electricity generation mix, with only 1% generated from wind and solar
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 19 energy (DOE, 2016 as cited by Agaton and Karl, 2018). This renewable energy share vis-à-vis the national energy mix increased to 39.8% in 2010 and 40.7% in 2011. Launched in 2011, the National Renewable Energy Program (NREP) specifies on-grid renewable energy capacity increase targets, viz.: geothermal capacity by 75%; hydropower by 160%; and enhanced biomass, wind, and solar power
capacities (Brahim, 2014). The Philippines renewable energy potential includes over 4,000 MW of geothermal energy; more than 76,600 MW from wind energy; above 10,000 MW from hydropower; over 5 kWh/m2/day from solar energy; and more than 500MW from biomass (Delos Santos, n.d.).
Agaton and Karl (2018) investigated the attractiveness of investments in renewable energy sources for substituting diesel-based power generation using the real options approach (ROA). The ROA applies the option pricing theory for the valuation of non-financial assets. Agaton and Karl s (2018) analyses indicate that switching to renewable energy sources is preferable for imported fuel-dependent developing countries like the Philippines, given fluctuations in the prices of diesel and electricity, and the externality tax for diesel fuel. The authors recommended policies at enhancing investments in sustainable energy sources.
In the Philippines, several areas have demonstrated the utilization of renewable energy (on-grid). Examples of these are communities in Palawan
Province, viz.: Sitio Green Island in Roxas Municipality and Barangay Cabayugan. In Sitio Green Island, power is supported by renewable energy, from a 25.5 kW Hybrid Renewable Energy Power System comprised of biomass gasifier, solar panels, and wind turbines. The system was supported by the United States Agency for
International Development (US Embassy in the Philippines, 2014). On the other
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 20 hand, in Barangay Cabayugan, a hybrid mini-grid system that integrates solar
panels, batteries, and diesel engines was operationalized in 2019, providing the community with power, for a fee, for supporting 10 public buildings, 18 small businesses, 19 hotels and restaurants, and 583 households (Lagare, 2019).
One of the efforts of the Department of Energy (DOE), with support from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), is the Renewable Energy Applications Mainstreaming and Market
Sustainability (DREAMS) project, which focuses on the promotion of
commercialization of renewable energy markets for reducing GHG emissions. Iloilo Province is among the LGUs targeted for the project, focusing on the Municipalities of Ajuy, Carles, and Concepcion, and in partnership with Iloilo Electric Cooperative (ILECO), for evolving their Local Renewable Energy Planning Processes. The Iloilo Provincial Government is committed to the integration of renewable energy policies and projects in the provincial development agenda (DOE, 2019).
Via Department Circular 2020-12-0026, DOE required buildings for installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) and other relevant/applicable renewable energy
technologies. This Department Circular puts a baseline of a minimum of 1% of anticipated energy requirements for covered buildings of electrical requirement of around 112.5 kilovolt-amperes (kVa) or a gross floor area of 10,000 square meters or more (Crismundo, 2021).
Materials on the utilization of renewable energy for supplying power to local government infrastructures and operations have been scanty.
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 21 Rainwater Harvesting Installations and Utilization
Various national policies in the Philippines have emphasized the harvesting and utilization of rainwater for addressing water requirements in buildings and communities. The Green Building Code of the Philippines elaborates that rainwater should be collected for non-potable purposes for new buildings of various
classifications. As early as 1989, RA 6716, otherwise known as An act providing for the construction of water wells, rainwater collectors, development of springs and rehabilitation of existing water wells in all barangays in the Philippines , calls for the capacity building of all barangays to tap and make use of rainwater for addressing water requirements of the community population. Moreover, the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Memorandum Circular No. 2017 76, supporting P.D. No. 1067, otherwise known as the Water Code, elaborates on the construction of rainwater collection system (RWCS) for water conservation and flood control, against the backdrop of environmental protection and sustainable
development. The same Memorandum Circular specifies that LGUs include RWCS technologies at the local level and include the same in development plans/Climate Change Action Plans.
Moreover, various studies highlight the viability of rainwater harvesting for supplying non-potable water supply, due to the copious rainfall received in the Philippines during the rainy and typhoon seasons (Contreras et al., 2013; Necesito et al., 2013). Comprised of catchment area and delivery and storage mechanisms (Worm and Hatum, 2006 as cited by Necesito et al., 2013), rainwater harvesting systems could bridge the water requirements of the increasing population (ADB, 2007 as cited
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 22 by Necesito et al., 2013; Lumbera et al., n.d.) and reduce runoff from high rainfall intensity (Worm and Hatum, 2006 as cited by Necesito, et al., 2013).
There have been numerous documentation of the use of rainwater harvesting in households and sectors. Ciriaco et al. (2022) documented household-level
rainwater harvesting and utilization in Malangabang Island, Concepcion Municipality, Philippines, where rainwater harvesting has been useful for household requirements;
the study recommended, among others, the establishment of rainwater utility
infrastructure on the island. On the other hand, Contreras et al. (2013), studied eight small water impounding projects (SWIPs), as rainwater harvesting facilities in
Talugtog, Nueva Ecija, Philippines; the study suggests multiple benefits from SWIPS, including supplemental irrigation, inland fish production, and water for domestic purposes and livestock production . Contreras et al. (2013) put forward that rainwater harvesting aids in groundwater recharge, flood mitigation, soil and water conservation, and other benefits to the environment.
The Dumangas Municipality (2016), in its Climate/Disaster Risk Assessment and Vulnerability Assessment Report, indicates that most of the local population depends on the Dumangas-Barotac Nuevo Water District (DBNWD); water for agricultural use, on the other hand, is dependent on the National Irrigation
Administration (NIA); while in rainfed areas or when rainfall is scant, many farmers rely on shallow tube wells to draw underground water for supplying water to
farmlands. Water requirements, by government infrastructures, are largely dependent on the DBNWD and/or underground water sources, except for a few infrastructures including: the eatery section of the new market building; school
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 23 buildings in Barangays Cali, Dacutan, and Maquina; and new health centers in
Barangays Buenaflor-Embarcadero and Cayos.
Green Spaces/Vegetation Areas in Infrastructures
The Green Building Code of the Philippines underscores the importance of green/landscaped areas for indigenous or adaptable species of grass, shrubs and trees for improving surface permeability in open areas of building developments for facilitating recharging of natural ground water reservoir, control storm water surface run-off, cool the building surroundings, and provide indoor to outdoor connectivity .
According to Pennino, Mcdonald, and Jaffe (2016), Saleh and Weinstein (2016), and Sutton-Grier, Wowk, and Bamford (2015), as cited by Zuniga-Teran, et al.
(2020), green infrastructure enhances ecosystems vis-à-vis reduced flooding risk, urban heat island reduction, improved air quality, reduced energy consumption in buildings, carbon storage, conservation of wildlife habitat, and the provision of recreation and leisure amenities that improve well-being .
While not in the Philippines, Tbilisi, Georgia can be a good model for the integration of green spaces/vegetation areas in infrastructure development. Tbilisi owns and maintains recreational and green spaces in the city to include 10 city parks, almost 300 pocket parks, and several hundreds of green areas , for enhancing the residents quality of life. The green spaces in the city total 278,429,606 square meters and are integrated into the Tbilisi Land Use Master Plan (Tbilisi Municipality, 2021).
In the Philippines, the New Clark City, geared towards sustainable development, has integrated green features, among others, into its master plan, albeit
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 24 there have been recommendations for utilizing native species for green spaces and consultations with botanists/ecologists on the same (Cordova & Malabrigo, 2019).
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 25 III. STATEMENT OF THE STUDY
The importance of local governments has been recognized globally in climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts. How effectively local governments perform in mitigating and adapting to climate change will impact how the national government meets its targets in carbon emissions reduction and climate change resilience.
By climate change mitigation and adaptation measures, this study specifically focuses on a) utilization of renewable energy sources to provide power to local government infrastructures, b) rainwater harvesting for supplying water to local government facilities, and c) integration of green spaces/vegetation areas in local government infrastructures.
This study can aid Dumangas and other local governments in enhancing policies and guidelines, and implementing mechanisms, for better integration of climate change mitigation and adaptation measures in infrastructures.
This study is hinged on the following research questions:
1) What are the drivers of the integration of climate change mitigation and adaptation measures into government-funded and/or government- facilitated infrastructures in Dumangas?
2) What are the barriers to the integration of climate change mitigation and adaptation measures into government-funded and/or government-
facilitated infrastructures in Dumangas?
3) What recommendations could be proposed from the perspective of the respondents to enhance the integration of climate change mitigation and
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 26 adaptation measures into government-funded and/or government-facilitated infrastructures in Dumangas?
Conceptual Framework
Despite climate change being a global issue, its salience is distinct at the local level as the causes are generated therein (Fagiewicz et al., 2021) and the impacts are location-specific (Agrawal et al., 2008). Hence, local governments are key to climate change responses, both mitigation and adaptation. This focus on local governments can be attributed, among others, to the extent of their influence to direct and sustain local action and the transformative potential of its local decisions and policies for environmental protection (Hoppe et al., 2014) and resilience (Deri and Alam, 2008). Deri and Alam (2008) identify local governments as closest to people, closest to action .
Hoppe et al. (2014) further put forward that climate change action should take forward both mitigation and adaptation, particularly from the local level, and hence, local governments should provide ample attention to both climate change mitigation and adaptation.
Simonet and Leseur (2018) postulate that investigation into drivers of and barriers to climate change adaptation (and mitigation) is requisite to understanding the mismatch between the acceleration of climate impacts and the slow efforts at addressing the same; similarly, Kay et al. (2018) investigated organizational barriers in local governments in California, for developing and testing the Adaptation and Capability Advancement Toolkit.
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 27 Moreover, Fagiewicz et al. (2021) focused on identifying needs, barriers, and drivers for strengthening climate change adaptation and mitigation, in the context of strengthening drivers and addressing barriers.
The above concepts, reflected in the following diagram, provide a framework for assessing drivers and barriers in the integration of climate change mitigation and adaptation measures in Dumangas Municipality, in the context of local government- funded/local government-facilitated infrastructures.
Figure 1. Conceptual framework of the study.
The diagram reflects the salient role of local governments in both climate change mitigation and adaptation. The identification of drivers and barriers for integration of climate change mitigation and adaptation measures in local
Perceptions of climate change mitigation and adaptation
Current integration of climate change mitigation and
adaptation into LG infrastructures
Drivers Barriers
Recommendations for enhancements
Recommendations for enhancements
Integration of climate change mitigation and adaptation measures
in LG infrastructures
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 28 government infrastructures in Dumangas Municipality is essential for optimizing the drivers and addressing the barriers.
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 29 IV. OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY
The main objective of the study is to identify the drivers and barriers of, and propose recommendations from the respondents perspective to enhance, the integration of climate change mitigation and adaptation measures into government- funded and/or government-facilitated infrastructures in Dumangas.
The specific aims of the study are:
a) Explore the perceptions of local government officials of climate change mitigation and adaptation, and climate change mitigation and adaptation measures in local government infrastructures;
b) Describe the current integration of climate change mitigation and adaptation measures into government-funded/government-facilitated infrastructures in Dumangas;
c) Explore drivers and barriers that facilitate and impede the integration of climate change mitigation and adaptation measures into government- funded/government-facilitated infrastructures in Dumangas; and
d) Recommend measures for the advancement of the integration of climate change mitigation and adaptation measures into government-
funded/government-facilitated infrastructures in Dumangas in particular, and in similar local governments in general.
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 30 V. RATIONALE
Anchored on the concepts of green buildings and green infrastructures, this study brings forward the role of infrastructure development in local governments in the Philippines particularly in the Municipality of Dumangas for both climate change mitigation and adaptation. This potential of infrastructures to merge various functionalities, including that for contributing to reduced carbon emissions and resilience to climate-related events, has been acknowledged in many countries.
Munyasya and Chileshe (2018) enthused that the acceleration of the economic, social, and environmental balance can be attributed to infrastructure, among others, in various developing states. Similarly, UNEP (n.d.) underscores that a key area for reducing adverse impacts on the environment while contributing to sustainable development goals advancement is the sector of building and construction.
This study will contribute to the still limited body of knowledge on the
capacities and gaps in the integration of climate change mitigation and adaptation measures in local government-funded/local government-facilitated infrastructures in the Philippines. The results of the study can aid the Dumangas Municipality, and similar local governments, in crafting/revising policies and their corresponding guidelines, and implementing mechanisms for enhancing the integration of climate change mitigation and adaptation measures in infrastructures.
Further, this study could provide an impetus for a possible review of local regulations/codes/ordinances for the integration of climate change mitigation and adaptation measures in local infrastructures, whether public, residential, commercial, or industrial in nature.
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 31 VI. SCOPE AND LIMITATIONS
The study is focused on Dumangas, a first-class municipality in Iloilo. Data used in this study are based on analysis of annual accomplishment reports,
development and action plans, ordinances, and other local policies; and responses of respondents to a semi-structured questionnaire (attached as Appendix 1).
Municipal officials and Punong Barangays, key decision makers in the planning and implementation of development interventions in Dumangas, were asked about their perceptions vis-à-vis climate change mitigation and adaptation, climate change mitigation and adaptation measures in local government
infrastructure projects, drivers and barriers to integration of climate change mitigation and adaptation measures in infrastructures, and the potential for enhancing
integration of climate change mitigation and adaptation measures into local government infrastructures.
In this study, climate change mitigation and adaptation measures in local government infrastructures refer specifically to a) utilization of renewable energy for supplying power to local government infrastructures; b) rainwater harvesting for supplying water to local government infrastructures; and c) injection of green spaces/vegetation areas in local government infrastructures.
This study is undertaken only in Dumangas, which may have limited the analysis of drivers and barriers to climate change adaptation and mitigation in Iloilo Province. A validation of this study could be undertaken in other municipalities. Due to COVID-19, data gathering was limited to individual responses of respondents to a semi-structured questionnaire. Other data collection techniques, like focus group
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 32 discussion, were not undertaken due to government restrictions in conducting
meetings/gatherings.
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 33 VII. DESCRIPTION OF THE STUDY AREA
Dumangas Municipality is among the 42 municipalities of Iloilo Province. It is comprised of 12,870 hectares straddling 10 49 north and 122 43 east. There are 45 barangays in the municipality 10 are classified as urban and 35 as rural.
Dumangas has invested significantly, using resources both from local coffers and from national/international donors, for enhancing basic services and for furthering economic development. Appendix 2 provides a list of infrastructure projects undertaken and/or facilitated by the LGU either locally or externally funded.
Every year, 20% of the LGU s Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) is allotted for capital outlays; this is called the 20% Development Fund. In 2020, almost PhP 38 million of its total IRA of PhP 188,564,254 is earmarked as the 20% Development Fund. Additionally, annual income from Real Property Taxes (PhP 5.8 million in 2020) is also committed to capital outlays for various sectors and infrastructure development (Municipality of Dumangas, 2020). These funds for capital outlays/infrastructure development are complemented/supplemented by funds from congressional, provincial, and national governments as well as from local and international development partners of the LGU.
In keeping with its development trajectory, the LGU s CDP indicates further infrastructure development for basic services and for harnessing current and potential socio-economic opportunities. This thrust for infrastructure development provides windows of opportunity for the integration of climate change mitigation and adaptation measures into infrastructures.
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 34 The Municipality of Dumangas, in its CDP, has identified numerous environmental programs; these, however, do not specifically include the integration of climate change mitigation and adaptation measures.
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 35 VIII. METHODOLOGY
This study is qualitative and based on data obtained from two streams: 1) analysis of the Municipality of Dumangas annual accomplishment reports, development and action plans, ordinances, and other local policies; and 2) responses of respondents to a semi-structured questionnaire (in Appendix 1).
Annual accomplishment/project reports, development and action plans, ordinances, and other local policies were requested from relevant offices in Dumangas Municipality.
The respondents, chosen using purposive sampling, are key decision-makers in the planning and implementation of development interventions, including infrastructures, in the Municipality of Dumangas and its inclusive 45 barangays. The respondents also have primary responsibilities in the formulation and/or implementation of local policies, including those related to climate change mitigation and adaptation. The respondents further constitute the majority of the Municipal Development Council (MDC), which, as mandated by the Local Government Code of 1991, prioritizes the annual development thrusts of the local government, particularly relative to its 20% Development Fund. The MDC, led by the Municipal Mayor, is composed of a) all Punong Barangays in the Municipality, b) the Chair of the Sangguniang Bayan s Committee on Appropriations, c) the Congressman or his/her representative, and d) representatives of NGOs (Local Government Code, 1991). The respondents are presented in Table 1.
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 36 Table 1
Respondents
Position Number Responsibilities Municipal Mayor
1
Chief executive in the municipality;
mandated to a) exercise general supervision and control over all programs, projects, services, and activities of the municipal
government ; b) enforce/implement all laws, ordinances, policies, programs, projects, services, and activities relevant to the municipality ; c) manage resources and revenues generation, and apply the same for the pursuance of development plans, program objectives, and priorities of the municipality; d) ensure that basic services are delivered and adequate facilities are provided; and e) exercise other powers as mandated and
relevant (Local Government Code, 1991)
Sangguniang Bayan/Municipal
11
Mandated with local legislation in the municipality; the Vice Mayor presides
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 37 Legislative Council
(1 Vice Mayor and 10 Sangguniang Bayan Members)
over the Sangguniang Bayan. The Sangguaning Bayan enact
ordinances, approve resolutions, and appropriate funds for the general welfare of the municipality and its constituents (Local Government Code of 1991)
Punong
Barangays (from each of the 45 barangays of Dumangas Municipality)
45
Punong Barangays hold the unique position of being both the chief executive of the barangay and the presiding officer of the barangay legislative council, the Sangguniang Barangay (Local Government Code, 1991).
Municipal Engineer
1
Takes charge of the Municipal
Engineering Office and is responsible for the overall supervision,
administration, and implementation of infrastructure development and public works in the municipality (Local
Government Code, 1991) Municipal Planning
and Development Officer
1
Takes the lead of the Municipal
Planning and Development Office and is tasked with the formulation for the consideration of the LGU, and
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 38 coordination, monitoring, and
evaluation of multi-sectoral development
plans/policies/development planning instruments; acts as the head of the Secretariat of the MDC (Local Government Code, 1991) Municipal
Environment and Natural Resources Officer
1
Takes the lead in and provides technical inputs on the environment and natural resources-related development plans, programs, and projects (Local Government Code, 1991)
Total 60
The questionnaires were distributed to 60 respondents. The author received completed questionnaires from 47 respondents, who represent 78% of the target respondents. Analysis of the respondents responses used descriptive statistics, mainly percentages, for presenting the said respondents responses for addressing the research questions.
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 39 IX. RESULTS
Responden s Experience and Training
The respondents have served Dumangas in their positions for varying periods, from one to three years, to more than ten years.
Table 2
Respondents and Number of Years in their Current Designation/Position
Years Number of
respondents
Percentage
1-3 15 32%
4-6 8 17%
7-9 10 21%
10 and above 14 30%
The highest percentage of respondents (32%) are in their current position for the shortest period category (1-3 years). The longest period category for the same designation/position, on the other hand, is being served by 30% of the respondents.
The vast majority of these respondents have held previous positions that were related or similar to their current positions. The minority served in previous positions in unrelated fields.
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 40 Table 3
Respondents and Positions they Occupied Prior to their Current Positions Previous Position
Relevant to Current Position
Number of Respondents
Percentage
Previous position same as current
position
15 32%
Previous position related to current
position
24 51%
Previous position unrelated to current
position
8 17%
Of the respondents, 51% occupied positions related to their current position, while 32% were in the same positions as they were previously; 8% of the respondents held positions that were unrelated to their current positions.
The respondents have variable levels of education/training.
Table 4
Educational Background and Relevant Education/Training of Respondents
Education Attained Number of Respondents
Percentage
High School 6 13%
College 37 79%
Post-graduate 4 8%
Drivers and Barriers in Climate 41 Most (79%) of the respondents either have a college education or completed their college degree, while 13% of the respondents have a high school education.
Moreover, 8% of the respondents have/pursuing post-graduate education.
Over half of the respondents indicated that they have relevant trainings in environmental management and/or climate change mitigation/adaptation. These trainings, as elaborated by respondents, were comprised of seminars/symposiums/awareness activities/trainings on climate change mitigation/adaptation which are usually conducted following their assumption to the office and whenever there are relevant projects that provide support to these trainings.
One respondent had pursued a post-graduate course on environmental management.
Table 5
Relevant Training of Respondents on Environmental Management/Climate Change Mitigation/Climate Change Adaptation
Training Number of
Respondents
Percentage
Relevant training 28 60%
No relevant training 19 40%
Relevant training on environmental management/climate change mitigation/adaptation was undertaken by 60% of the respondents, while 40% of the respondents indicated they were not able to undertake relevant training.
The respondents have differing views on their responsibilities relevant to environmental management/climate change mitigation/adaptation. Those who indicated that environmental management/climate change mitigation/adaptation is part of their responsibilities (74% of the respondents) elaborated that these
