Philippines targets 75% emissions cut by 2035, builds carbon market
The Marcos administration is actively seeking private investment for green projects and developing a tradable carbon credit market to meet its enhanced 2026 Nationally Determined Contribution.
Manila Seeks Private Green Capital
The Philippine government is intensifying its efforts to attract private capital for environmentally friendly projects, aiming to accelerate the nation's progress towards its climate objectives. Environment Secretary Juan Miguel Cuna urged investors and business leaders to fund clean technologies and engage with local carbon offset frameworks.
Speaking at the Philippine Net Zero Conference 2026, hosted by the Net Zero Carbon Alliance, Cuna called on financial institutions to make green financing more accessible and scalable, moving away from high-risk perceptions.
75% Emissions Reduction by 2035
The Marcos administration has set an ambitious target to reduce and avoid net emissions by 75% through 2035, according to Environment Secretary Cuna. This goal is outlined in the country's enhanced 2026 Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), a commitment under the Paris Agreement.
Cuna described the 2026 NDC as a national economic platform, directly linking climate action with critical areas such as energy security, economic stability, fiscal resilience, and social protection.
Developing a Tradable Carbon Credit Market
As part of its climate strategy, the Philippines is currently formulating policies to establish a domestic carbon credit market. These policies will define clear criteria for mitigation activities, projects, and programmes eligible to generate carbon credit certificates.
Each certificate will represent one tonne of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions either reduced or removed from the atmosphere, and these certificates will be tradable. This initiative aims to provide a market-based mechanism for companies to offset their emissions.
The government's push creates significant opportunities for financial institutions and businesses in the Philippines. Investors can look to participate in green financing, clean technology development, and the nascent carbon credit market, which is expected to formalise with new policies.
This framework could provide new avenues for capital deployment aligned with the country's climate resilience goals, offering both environmental impact and potential economic returns in a climate-vulnerable nation.
This article is journalism, not investment advice; consult a licensed professional before making financial decisions. Market data is indicative, may be delayed, and should be verified with your broker or exchange before use.
Comments.
Comments are moderated. We remove what is unlawful, abusive or off-topic, and and you remain responsible for what you post.
Reader comments open soon. Until then, corrections and responses go to our newsroom, and we publish what we get wrong on Corrections.