Representing DILG Undersecretary Marlo L. Iringan, DILG XII Regional Director, Atty. Rochelle D. Mahinay-Sero, CESO III, together with LGOO VI Sheila Mae G. Kubik, joined the stakeholder consultation on the Sarangani Bay proposal for accessing climate-related loss and damage funds on April 16, 2026 at Greenleaf Hotel, General Santos City.

Led by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and facilitated by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the activity focused on addressing climate-induced economic and non-economic losses.

The consultation supported Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage (FRLD) project preparations through local engagement, data gathering, and documentation of capacities, gaps, and initiatives. Stakeholders in Sarangani Bay shared experiences and identified adaptation measures, highlighting community efforts to restore marine ecosystems and sustain fisheries livelihoods. The activity also emphasized the vulnerability of indigenous communities whose cultural identity and traditions are tied to coastal ecosystems, which are increasingly affected by climate change.

Participants included NGAs, LGUs, members of the local sanggunian, FARMCs, academe, research institutions, and the private sector, in a shared push for stronger climate resilience