MANILA, Philippines: Former United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon is set to address the Philippine Senate later today. This significant event comes as senators are preparing to concur in the ratification of the agreement between the Philippines and the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), which aims to promote sustainable economic growth.
Ban Ki-Moon currently serves as the GGGI’s Assembly President and Council Chairman. The GGGI is an international organization dedicated to fostering sustainable economic growth in developing countries.
Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri, speaking at the end of Monday’s session, reminded his fellow senators about the visit of the esteemed former UN Secretary-General. He stated, “Just a reminder: Tomorrow we will be having a very important visitor, former UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon.”
On December 19, 2023, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ratified the Host Country Agreement between the Philippines and the GGGI. The instrument of ratification was subsequently transmitted to the Senate on January 11, 2024.
Senator Maria Josefa Imelda “Imee” Marcos, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, sponsored Senate Proposed Resolution 936, which concurs in the ratification of the Host Country Agreement. This agreement establishes an office for the GGGI in the Philippines.
The GGGI, headquartered in Seoul, South Korea, is dedicated to supporting and promoting a model of economic growth known as “green growth,” as highlighted by Senator Marcos.
Senate President Pro Tempore Lorna Regina “Loren” Legarda, a co-sponsor of Resolution 936, emphasized the valuable contributions of the GGGI. Through technical and financial assistance amounting to approximately $10 million, the GGGI has supported the Philippines’ efforts in climate resilience and green growth development, resulting in tangible and measurable outcomes.
Legarda further stressed that this agreement signifies the country’s unwavering commitment to sustainable development and green growth initiatives. She stated, “By partnering with the GGGI, the Philippines has been able to advance initiatives in climate action, climate-resilient agriculture, waste management, e-mobility, bioplastics, and sustainable landscape management.”
Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo expressed his delight in reconnecting with former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon. Secretary Manalo described Ban Ki-Moon as “a very good friend of the Philippines.” Their meeting, which preceded Ban Ki-Moon’s discussion with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., focused on “green partnerships for climate resilience and 75 years of Philippine-South Korean friendship for Asia’s peace and prosperity,” as shared by Secretary Manalo on X (formerly Twitter).
The upcoming address by former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon to the Philippine Senate serves as a testament to the country’s dedication to sustainable economic growth. Through its partnership with the GGGI, the Philippines continues to make strides in climate resilience, environmental sustainability, and green initiatives, contributing to a better future for all.
Source: The Manila Times
