The Climate Change Commission (CCC) has called for stronger and more transparent systems to track climate-related spending across Southeast Asia, emphasizing the need to ensure public funds are used effectively for climate action.
During ASEAN Climate Week, Vice Chairperson Robert E.A. Borje said improved tracking systems would allow the public to see how government climate funds are spent and ensure they are directed to intended programs.
He cited the Philippines’ Climate Change Expenditure Tagging (CCET) system, which identifies and monitors government spending on climate-related projects.
Borje said the system strengthens transparency and accountability in public finance and helps ensure funds are used for initiatives that reduce risks from floods, typhoons, and extreme heat.
“For taxpayers and communities, this means climate funds are tracked and linked to programs such as safer roads, protected farms, and disaster risk reduction efforts,” the commission said in its statement.
Borje also stressed the importance of coordination among government agencies to avoid duplication and maximize limited resources.
ASEAN Climate Week, held from April 27 to May 1, served as a regional platform for countries to share practices on climate finance tracking and management.
The CCC said it will continue strengthening these systems to support infrastructure, agriculture, and communities increasingly affected by climate risks.
