Drivers and barriers in climate change mitigation and adaptation in infrastructure development in Iloilo Province

Abstract

Anchored on the importance of local governments in national and global climate change initiatives, this study delves into the drivers of, barriers to, and recommendations for, enhancing the integration of climate change mitigation and adaptation measures in local government infrastructures in Dumangas, Iloilo, Philippines.

As a qualitative study, analysis was undertaken per review of Dumangas Municipality’s annual accomplishment reports, development and action plans, ordinances, and other local policies; and responses of respondents to a semi-structured questionnaire. Using purposive sampling, 60 local government officials were targeted as respondents and received the questionnaire; 47 of the 60 target respondents (78%) completed and returned the questionnaires.

Current drivers of climate change mitigation and adaptation in local government infrastructures in Dumangas include the presence of champions/avid supporters, financial assistance from foreign/national donors, and technical assistance from foreign/national donors. Local capacities, local funds dedicated to climate change mitigation and adaptation measures, and climate change mitigation and adaptation measures imbedded into Local Comprehensive Development Plan/Local Climate Change Plan, are not playing key roles in the current integration of climate change mitigation and adaptation measures into local government infrastructures.

Barriers to climate change mitigation and adaptation measures integration in local government infrastructures are difficulties in conceptualizing the design, allocating funds, sourcing out materials, obtaining expertise, and legislating local ordinances.

Recommendations for enhancing the integration of climate change mitigation and adaptation in local government infrastructures, to supplement and complement the current drivers, include the establishing of technical expertise, capacity building of local government officials, putting in place of local legislations with annual fund allocation, and strengthening of executive-legislative coordination.

Validation of the study could be conducted in other LGUs, for strengthening climate change adaptation and mitigation policies and initiatives in specific municipalities and/or across municipalities in the Philippines.