Brian Poe named honorary advisor of Climate Field School

DEL CARMEN, Surigao del Norte — Rep. Brian Poe of the FPJ Panday Bayanihan party-list has been named honorary adviser of the Climate Field School, reaffirming his commitment to advancing climate resilience and sustainable livelihoods in Siargao.

Poe was represented by his chief for political affairs, Leaross Valerio, at the Siargao Climate and Circular Economy Forum held in Del Carmen, Surigao del Norte, within the Siargao Island Protected Landscape and Seascape.

The forum brought together national and local government officials, development partners and community stakeholders to advance climate resilience, environmental conservation and sustainable livelihoods, particularly for farmers and fisherfolk in island communities.

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Among the key participants were Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum Jr.; Interior and Local Government Assistant Secretary for International Relations Lilian de Leon; European Union representative Tsvetomir Svilenov; United Nations Development Programme Philippines Deputy Resident Representative Amanthi Wickramasinghe; and Del Carmen Mayor Alfredo “JR” Coro II.

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Representing Poe, Valerio conveyed the lawmaker’s support for the Climate Field School and its mission to bring science, technology and practical climate solutions closer to farmers and fisherfolk.

“The farmers and fisherfolk are the reason there is a Climate Field School. This recognition reminds us of whom this school is ultimately meant to serve. Para po ito sa inyo,” Valerio said on Poe’s behalf.

Valerio also emphasized the importance of ensuring that the experiences and concerns of local communities inform policymaking and legislative initiatives, particularly those involving climate adaptation, agricultural and fisheries support, and sustained public investment in climate resilience.

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The forum underscored the need to protect natural ecosystems while strengthening local economies. Coro stressed that environmental protection and economic development must go hand in hand.

“Protecting nature and building a strong local economy are not two separate goals or jobs. They are one same job,” the mayor said.

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Solidum likewise highlighted the role of science and technology in translating environmental priorities into practical solutions.

“A circular Siargao must be a climate-resilient Siargao,” he said.