The Philippines is stepping up its involvement in regional carbon markets through private-sector engagement with the ASEAN Common Carbon Framework, or ACCF.
Aboitiz Foundation is joining the framework as an observer and participating in a Memorandum of Collaboration signing at the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference in Antalya, Türkiye.
The engagement brings Philippine perspectives on carbon market standards, financing, and cross-border cooperation to regional discussions. It also highlights the growing role of private-sector initiatives in forest restoration and nature-based climate solutions. The signing coincides with a two-year renewal of the ACCF Memorandum of Collaboration.
“ASEAN has the natural capital and economic dynamism to become a significant player in global carbon markets,” said Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar, Aboitiz Chief Reputation and Sustainability Officer and President of Aboitiz Foundation.
“Through the CarbonPH Coalition and our work in nature-based solutions, we hope to contribute Philippine perspectives and practical experience to this regional effort,” she added. She added that the aim is to help build a market where integrity attracts investment and communities share in the value created.
Private-Sector Climate Action
The Philippines’ participation builds on ongoing efforts by private entities to strengthen the domestic carbon market ecosystem through industry collaboration and capacity building. The CarbonPH Coalition brings together stakeholders to explore credible carbon market development. Alongside the Philippines Nature-based Solutions Group, the coalition maintains a long-term initiative focused on forest restoration, biodiversity conservation, watershed protection, and community development.
Established in 2024, the ACCF unites carbon organizations from Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and Thailand alongside the ASEAN Alliance on Carbon Markets. The framework prioritizes broader representation, international alignment, and technical cooperation under its 2026–2028 strategy. Aboitiz Equity Ventures, a major Philippine conglomerate with investments in power, banking, and infrastructure, supports these ESG-driven initiatives through its sustainability synergy model.
Questions About ACCF and Philippine Representation at COP31
What is the ASEAN Common Carbon Framework?
Established in 2024, the ACCF brings together carbon market organizations from Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, and the ASEAN Alliance on Carbon Markets to strengthen regional coordination and advance high-integrity carbon markets.
Who is representing the Philippines at COP31?
Aboitiz Foundation is representing the CarbonPH Coalition and the Philippines Nature-based Solutions Group as an observer at the climate conference in Antalya, Türkiye.
Worth a look