HOUSE Ways and Means Chair Joey Sarte Salceda urged the Climate Change Commission (CCC) and the Department of Finance (DOF) to prioritize the country’s right to affordable energy while pursuing decarbonization efforts.
Salceda’s call came amid discussions on proposals to compel high-emitting sectors, such as power and manufacturing, to reduce carbon emissions.
As the first Asian co-chair of the United Nations’ Green Climate Fund (GCF), Salceda made his statement during deliberations by the House Committee on Ways and Means on the tax provisions of the Unnumbered Substitute Bill to House Bills No. 7705 and 10633.
The proposed legislation, titled “An Act Promoting Investments in Low Carbon Economy, Establishing for this Purpose a Carbon Emission Pricing Framework and Implementation Mechanism to Achieve Low Carbon and Resilient Economic Development,” is authored by Reps. Chatto, Magsino, and others.
Salceda emphasized the principles of the Paris Agreement, citing Article 3, which underscores equity and the differentiated responsibilities of developed and developing countries, and Article 4, which prioritizes economic development and poverty eradication for developing nations.
“These provisions affirm our right to affordable energy,” Salceda remarked. “Our ability to meet decarbonization obligations depends on developed countries taking the lead.”
Salceda warned that rapid decarbonization could impose heavy costs on Filipino consumers, estimating electricity prices could surge to as high as ₱18 per kilowatt-hour.
He also voiced concerns about allocating tax incentives and government funds for decarbonization without receiving corresponding climate financing from wealthier nations.
“Not a single centavo should be shouldered by Filipinos—we are the victims. Every step of decarbonization should be financed by developed countries,” Salceda asserted.
He highlighted the Paris Agreement’s principle that developed countries must lead and finance climate initiatives. “If they want us to act on their behalf, they should pay us to do so.”
Salceda also honored Filipinos who played significant roles in advancing global climate negotiations.
He cited Ambassador Bernarditas Muller for championing the UN Green Climate Fund and expert Baby Supetran for advocating the creation of the Loss and Damage Fund hosted by the Philippines.
“Filipinos have long been at the forefront of climate diplomacy,” Salceda concluded, urging continued advocacy for equitable and sustainable climate solutions.