The University of the Philippines Open University’s Faculty of Management and Development Studies (UPOU-FMDS) congratulates the outstanding achievement of Princess Yvonne Donila, a student of the Master of Environment and Natural Resources Management (MENRM) program, who secured 2nd place in the Master’s category of the Climate Opinion Essay Contest at the Global Development Conference 2024 (GDC 2024) held on 26-28 November 2024 in Suva, Fiji. The conference, organized by the Global Development Network (GDN), in partnership with the University of the South Pacific and the Government of Fiji, carried the theme “Global Synergies: Climate Resilience Strategies for a Sustainable Tomorrow”, serves as a platform for emerging voices in global development to share innovative solutions and perspectives.
Her award-winning essay, titled “Katatagan sa Gitna ng Delubyo: Exploring the Cons of Filipino Resilience and Its Power to Combat Climate Change”, presents a compelling critique of Filipino resilience in the context of climate change. The essay examines how the cultural value of resilience, while often celebrated, may inadvertently hinder the effective implementation of climate policies by fostering complacency and limiting accountability.
Drawing on recent events, such as the devastating floods brought by Typhoon Carina (Gaemi) in July 2024, Donila highlights the urgent need for stronger climate policies and mitigation efforts. She argues that while resilience is an admirable quality deeply rooted in Filipino culture, it must evolve to include a proactive stance on climate policy enforcement and disaster risk reduction.
Donila’s essay further proposes solutions to leverage resilience positively, such as engaging indigenous communities, enhancing international partnerships, and strengthening education to empower citizens in the fight against climate change.
As 2nd place winner, Donila will receive a Certificate of Achievement from the Global Development Network (GDN). She has also been invited to attend the Global Development Conference 2024 virtually, where she will join global leaders and experts in discussions on sustainable development and climate action.
Once again, the UPOU-FMDS congratulates Princess Yvonne Donila on her remarkable achievement and valuable contribution to the discourse on climate resilience and policy in the Philippines which aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 13 (Climate Action).
Written by Dona Lyn M. Piamonte ♦ Edited by Larry Cruz ♦ Cross-posted from FMDS Website
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