PH seeks bigger GGGI role in climate finance, green industries

The Philippines is looking to deepen its partnership with the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), with cooperation expected to expand in renewable energy, green industries, agriculture, and climate finance as the country accelerates its transition toward sustainable development.

Department of Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for Administration Maria Theresa B. Dizon-De Vega discussed these priorities during a meeting with GGGI Executive Director Sanghyup Kim on June 9, underscoring Manila’s commitment to climate action and inclusive green growth.

During the meeting, Dizon-De Vega welcomed GGGI’s continued support for projects promoting green transitions and sustainable development in the Philippines and across Southeast Asia.

She also reaffirmed the Philippines’ support for the Seoul-based international organization, describing it as part of the country’s longstanding commitment to advancing climate action and sustainable economic growth.

DFA Undersecretary Dizon-De Vega (center right) with GGGI Executive Director Kim (center left), Mr. Hakseok Ryu, Director for Partnerships, Governance and Communications of GGGI (leftmost), Mr. Marcel Silvius, Country Representative Philippines (second from left), DFA UNIO Director Jet Olfato (second from right), and Ms. Junghwa Kwon, Program Officer of GGGI (rightmost). PHOTO FROM DFA

The DFA official said the Philippines is keen to broaden collaboration with GGGI, particularly in renewable energy development, green industries, agriculture, and improving access to climate finance.

Dizon-De Vega likewise encouraged programs that directly benefit local communities to ensure that “no one is left behind.”

For his part, Kim expressed gratitude for the Philippines’ voluntary contributions to GGGI and reiterated the organization’s appreciation for the country’s continued engagement.

Founded in 2012 and headquartered in Seoul, GGGI is a treaty-based international organization that promotes inclusive and sustainable economic growth in developing and emerging economies. It currently supports more than 50 member states and partner countries through climate finance mobilization, technical assistance, and green investment facilitation.

Also present at the meeting were DFA United Nations and International Organizations Office Director Jet Olfato, GGGI Director for Partnerships, Governance, and Communications Hakseok Ryu, GGGI Philippines Country Representative Marcel Silvius, and Program Officer Junghwa Kwon.