Assistant Professor Karl Villegas, Program Chair of the Diploma in/Master of Environment and Natural Resources Management (D/MENRM) Program at the Faculty of Management and Development Studies (FMDS) was invited as a resource speaker at the ASEAN Matters Technical Board (AMTB) Planning Workshop held on 27 January 2025 in Manila.

The workshop is a crucial preparatory activity for the Philippine Chairship of ASEAN in 2026, aiming to shape the region’s priorities and themes for the ASEAN summit. In alignment with this vision, Assistant Prof. Villegas delivered an engaging presentation on “Environment and Climate Change,” emphasizing ASEAN’s critical role in addressing global climate issues and environmental concerns, as well as the Philippines’ leadership in driving action during its ASEAN Chairship in 2026.

As one of the panel discussants on the theme “Global and Regional Trends,” Assistant Prof. Villegas highlighted the urgent need for collaborative climate action and the role of academic institutions like UPOU in fostering climate change education, policy development, and sustainable practices across the region. His insights were particularly timely, given the President’s emphasis on climate change as one of the key priority areas for the Philippines’ leadership in 2026.

During the workshop, key discussions revolved around the intersection of climate change across various sectors such as economics, trade, maritime, and geopolitical security, underscoring the complexity and urgency of addressing this global challenge. The workshop also marked an important milestone for UPOU, as the university was officially recognized as a permanent member of the substantive committee involved in the planning and preparation for the ASEAN 2026 Chairship.

As the Philippines prepares to take the helm of ASEAN in 2026, UPOU’s involvement in shaping these critical discussions demonstrates the university’s commitment to supporting sustainability, climate resilience, and the promotion of biodiversity conservation both on national and regional levels. Through programs such as the Diploma in/Master of Environment and Natural Resources Management, UPOU continues to contribute toward advancing education, research, and public service on sustainable development challenges.

#ASEAN2026 #ClimateChange #Environment #SDG4 #SDG13 #SDG14 #SDG15 #SDG17

Written by: Asst. Prof. Karl Villegas • Edited by: Larry N. Cruz

Sustainable Development Goals

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