New delhi: The Philippines has officially joined the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), a global partnership aimed at helping countries strengthen infrastructure and protect communities from climate and disaster risks. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. announced the Philippines' membership in a Facebook post, emphasizing the nation's commitment to building infrastructure that can withstand disasters and protect Filipino communities for future generations.
According to Philippines News Agency, President Marcos highlighted the importance of the Filipino 'bayanihan' (cooperation) spirit while underscoring the necessity of embedding resilience into essential infrastructure like roads, bridges, communication systems, and public buildings. The announcement came as the President met with CDRI officials on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) Summit in New Delhi, India, where the Philippines was welcomed as the 71st member of the global coalition.
Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Acting Secretary Dave Gomez noted that membership in the coalition would allow the Philippines to benefit from the experiences and technical expertise of other member countries. This collaboration aims to develop disaster-resilient infrastructure and provide access to financing for infrastructure projects designed to withstand climate and disaster risks. Gomez stressed that investing in resilient infrastructure before disasters occur is more cost-effective than post-disaster reconstruction efforts.
CDRI Director-General Amit Prothi expressed eagerness to collaborate with Philippine institutions on disaster-resilient infrastructure. The Philippines' membership aligns with the Philippines-India Strategic Partnership and supports key national plans, including the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Plan 2020-2030.
The Department of Public Works and Highways has been designated to represent the Philippines in the CDRI. High-profile officials, including Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro, Finance Secretary Frederick Go, Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez, and Philippine Ambassador to India Josel Ignacio, were present during the meeting with CDRI officials.
Launched by India in 2019, the CDRI is a voluntary and non-binding global partnership focused on strengthening infrastructure against disasters and climate change. Members gain access to global expertise, funding, technical support, research opportunities, and innovative solutions. The coalition aims to drive USD10 trillion of investments for disaster- and climate-resilient infrastructure, improving environmental quality, livelihoods, and well-being for over three billion people worldwide. The platform is supported by voluntary contributions from member countries and organizations, including the United States, the United Kingdom, European Union, and World Bank.
