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This profile provides an overview of climate risks facing the Philippines, including how climate change will potentially impact human health, energy and urban infrastructure, coastal ecosystems, agriculture, and water resources. The brief includes an overview of the Philippines’ geography and landscape, observed historical climate changes, and projected changes to key climate stressors. The profile also contains information about national climate strategies and plans, the climate finance landscape, and notable sector vulnerabilities. Recognizing the unique skills and knowledge that local populations in the Philippines bring to addressing climate risks, the profile details specific risks to critical populations living in highly vulnerable conditions.
A nation of over 7,600 islands, the Philippines is highly exposed to climate stressors and their impacts, particularly tropical cyclones (typhoons), sea level rise, flooding, and landslides. Described as one of the most “typhoon-ravaged countries in the world,” the Philippines experiences an average of 20 typhoons per year. An estimated 36 million people—70 percent of urban residents—live in low-lying coastal areas, facing risks from rising sea levels and increasing frequency of extreme weather events. Economic losses from storms are increasing over time, and the country could experience damages of 13.6 percent of its GDP by 2040.