Mariano Marcos State University launches Subnational Competence Center on Climate Information Services and Health

The Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU), in partnership with the University of the Philippines Manila - National Institutes of Health (UPM-NIH), the Climate Change Commission, and GIZ, has launched the Subnational Competence Center on Climate Information Services and Health. The Center, which is part of the GIZ-implemented Project "South-South Collaboration on Climate Information Services (SSCIS)" aims to enhance climate resilience and public health preparedness by providing accurate and actionable climate data to communities in the region.

The launch event, held at MMSU’s campus in Batac, Ilocos Norte, marks a significant milestone in strengthening the integration of climate science and health systems at the subnational level. By combining the expertise of local, national, and international partners, the center will serve as a hub for developing and disseminating tailored climate information to help communities mitigate the impacts of climate-related health risks.

The Center will focus on producing and sharing climate information services that address health vulnerabilities exacerbated by climate change, such as vector-borne diseases, heat stress, and waterborne illnesses. It will also support local decision-makers, health professionals, and the general public by providing critical tools and resources for adaptive health management.

Key features of the Center include: Evidence-based knowledge products; Capacity building and training; Community of Practice on CIS and Health; and Research and collaboration.

"We are thrilled to launch this Center, which is a testament to the growing importance of addressing climate and health as interconnected challenges. With the support of our partners, we aim to build a knowledge base that empowers local communities to act proactively in the face of climate risks," said Assistant Secretary Romell Cuenca, CCC Deputy Executive Director.

The collaboration with GIZ further underscores the shared commitment to addressing the dual challenges of climate change and public health in the Philippines and beyond. GIZ, through its expertise in climate adaptation has been instrumental in supporting the establishment of this Center.

Dr. Eva Cutiongco-De la Paz, Executive Director of UPM-NIH, emphasized the importance of the center’s work in strengthening health systems. “The integration of climate data into public health planning is critical as we face new health challenges associated with climate change. This center will help guide our response to climate-related health risks and ensure that we are better prepared for future health emergencies.”

The Center represents a significant step toward creating a climate-resilient, health-conscious future for the Philippines and serves as a model for other regions in the Southeast Asian region.