The Climate Change Commission (CCC) is reviewing its organizational structure, resources and operations to improve efficiency and speed up climate program delivery amid the country’s growing climate risks.

In a news release Monday, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje said the agency is carrying out the review through its Optimization Program, which includes strategic and operational planning workshops involving representatives from its divisions, units and offices.

“Climate change continues to pose complex and evolving risks, as seen in recent extreme weather events. Strengthening how we organize, plan, and deliver our programs is essential to ensuring that our policies translate into timely, effective, and meaningful action on the ground,” Borje said.

Focused on aligning institutional priorities, he said the workshops identified areas for improvement while strengthening coordination within the Commission.

The CCC said the effort is also intended to strengthen its capacity to implement national climate adaptation and mitigation policies by improving its use of climate data and science, measurement, reporting and verification (MRV) and monitoring, evaluation, accountability and learning (MEAL) systems.

These systems are expected to help the CCC improve planning, monitoring and decision-making as climate risks and the country’s needs continue to change.

CCC Deputy Executive Director Romell Antonio Cuenca stressed that reviewing the Commission’s structure and processes is an ongoing effort essential to delivering responsive public service.

“By continuously reviewing and improving our structure, processes, and priorities, we are working to make the Commission more responsive and effective in delivering climate action for the Filipino people,” Cuenca said.

The CCC said its Optimization Program is part of the broader Government Optimization Program under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., which seeks to make the bureaucracy more efficient and responsive.

The Commission assured continuous improvement of its internal coordination and operations as it works to strengthen the delivery of climate policies and programs supporting climate resilience and sustainable development. (PNA)