Davao City is among the returning cities participating in the One Planet City Challenge (OPCC) 2025–2026.
According to the official statement from One Planet Cities (OPC), Davao is among the 28 cities recognized for prioritizing the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and advocating for sustainable development.
Since 2015, WWF-Philippines has been implementing the global WWF OPC program and its flagship One Planet City Challenge, which provides cities the opportunity to showcase and strengthen their environmental initiatives.
It is a biennial, global initiative that assists cities in acting as catalysts for transformation by implementing integrated and inclusive plans in line with the 1.5°C climate target, while ensuring urban climate resilience and unlocking individual and collective climate actions.
City Planning and Development Coordinator Engr. Ivan C. Cortez told Madayaw on Tuesday that he was proud of the city’s achievements as one of the participants of the challenge this year.
“I am proud and excited that Davao City has once again been recognized as part of the One Planet Cities Program (OPC). This achievement highlights the city’s continued commitment to sustainability and climate action. The One Planet City Challenge (OPCC), organized by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), provides cities like Davao with an opportunity to showcase and strengthen their environmental initiatives,” Cortez said.
He added that although Davao was not a finalist in the 2023–2024 cycle, its consistent participation since 2019 and its recognition as a finalist in the 2021–2022 cycle demonstrated resilience and determination.
“Being tagged as a ‘returning city’ is not just recognition of past efforts but also a strong encouragement for Davao to push even further toward ambitious climate goals. I believe this reflects the city’s serious commitment to reducing carbon emissions, enhancing climate resilience, and creating a greener, more sustainable future for its people,” he added.
Cortez attributed the achievement to Davao City’s strong commitment to environmental protection, climate change adaptation, and sustainable development.
“The city’s proactive policies, programs, and consistent participation in global initiatives like the One Planet City Challenge reflect its dedication to building a climate-resilient and sustainable future,” he said.
He further emphasized that the recognition was due to the strong political will of Davao City’s local government, the collaborative efforts of the Davao City Climate Change Committee, and the active involvement of the community and various organizations.
Cortez said this opportunity opens doors for new partnerships, funding, and technical support to further enhance the city’s environmental programs. CIO
