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Context
The Philippines is confronted with a multitude of challenges, with a key concern being its susceptibility to severe weather conditions. In the global arena, the country features prominently for its exposure to risks, as seen in its top ranking in the 2023 World Risk Index and 17th position in the 2021 Global Climate Risk Index. A striking 60 per cent of the Philippine landmass is exposed to various hazards, impacting a significant 74 per cent of the population. Compounding this, a substantial 85.2 per cent of production sources are under threat from diverse perils, leading to anticipated GDP losses in the range of one to two per cent.
The adverse effects of climate change vibrate nationwide, affecting natural resources, marine ecosystems, healthcare services, and poverty levels. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic further strained the country’s resilience, amplifying existing challenges and hindering economic progress. Ongoing issues such as widespread migration and displacement persist, with regions such as Southern Mindanao enduring prolonged instability that has uprooted thousands of individuals over many years, primarily due to disasters and conflicts.
Despite being ranked 116th in the most recent Human Development Report, the Philippines contends with pressing issues related to urban development, disaster readiness, healthcare access and housing concerns. Notably, a considerable portion (22.4 per cent) of the population lives below the poverty line, contributing to food insecurity affecting 1 in 10 individuals. Vulnerabilities are especially acute among agricultural households, who spend over half their earnings on purchasing essential food items.
On 28 January 2024, the northeast monsoon and the trough of the low-pressure area affected Mindanao. The trough of the low-pressure area continued to bring light to heavy rains in Mindanao until 02 February 2024. This resulted in flooding, landslide and other incidents in Mindanao.