President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. is set to visit the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in December to attend the 28th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28). The confirmation of his participation came today through a source close to The Global Filipino Magazine.
Hosted by the UAE, COP28 will take place at Expo City Dubai from November 30 to December 12, 2023. This event serves as a pivotal meeting platform, bringing nations together to strategize and commit to ambitious solutions addressing the pressing global climate crisis.
Notably, COP28 will conclude the first Global Stocktake, evaluating the progress of the Paris Agreement goals. Recognizing current gaps in achieving these goals, the COP28 Presidency intends to focus on upholding the 1.5°C target and formulating a clear action plan. A spotlight will also be cast on sustainable agriculture, aiming to foster innovative methods in food production.
Dr. Al Jaber emphasized the commitment of the UAE, as the event host, to catalyze a significant shift towards reducing emissions and ensuring energy security. The nation also seeks to bridge international efforts, especially focusing on the Global South and countries most impacted by climate change.
In context, President Marcos Jr. has shown significant popularity among Filipinos in the UAE. In the 2022 overseas absentee voting, he secured 46,382 votes compared to Vice President Leni Robredo’s 9,924.