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June 2, 2026

Climate Dialogue Strengthens ASEAN Carbon Market Cooperation

• Cities & Policy

ASEAN Climate Action Dialogue Advances Regional Cooperation on Carbon Markets and Net-Zero Transition

Makati City, Philippines — The ASEAN Climate Action Dialogue successfully concluded at the Asian Institute of Management (AIM) on 24 February 2026, bringing together key stakeholders from across Southeast Asia to strengthen regional collaboration and accelerate climate action. Organized by the Global Compact Network Philippines (GCNP) and Race to Net Zero Philippines, the high-level gathering marked a significant step toward transforming climate ambition into coordinated implementation.

Held in partnership with the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP), the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), and the Climate & Clean Air Coalition (CCAC), the Dialogue convened leaders from government, business, and academia to address critical implementation gaps in the region’s climate agenda and explore pathways toward a unified ASEAN approach to decarbonization.

The event featured keynote addresses from Hon. Jose Manuel Alba, Representative of the First District of Bukidnon and principal author of the proposed Low Carbon Economy Bill; Dr. Jongsoo Shin, Regional Director for Asia of IRRI; and Shaurya Ritwik, Strategic Director of the Solar Futures Alliance. Former Department of Agriculture Secretary William Dar also joined as a panelist, contributing valuable insights on the role of agriculture in advancing climate resilience and sustainable development.

Throughout the Dialogue, speakers emphasized the importance of harmonizing governance frameworks, strengthening digital Measurement, Reporting and Verification (d-MRV) systems, and developing high-integrity carbon markets capable of attracting climate investments while supporting inclusive economic growth.

Three plenary sessions explored key opportunities for regional cooperation, including the ASEAN Common Carbon Framework (ACCF), the legislative momentum behind the Philippines’ Low Carbon Economy Bill, the potential of agri-carbon initiatives in scaling emissions reductions, and innovative climate finance mechanisms to support the region’s transition.

Participants highlighted that carbon markets should not be viewed merely as compliance mechanisms but as enabling infrastructure that can unlock investments, strengthen climate accountability, and accelerate the delivery of net-zero commitments across Southeast Asia.

“This Dialogue represents an important shift from fragmented climate action toward a more coordinated regional approach,” organizers noted. “Building a credible and effective ASEAN carbon market architecture requires strong partnerships, robust systems, and a shared commitment to ensuring that the transition to a low-carbon economy is both equitable and inclusive.”

The ASEAN Climate Action Dialogue concluded with a renewed commitment among stakeholders to continue advancing collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and policy alignment across the region. As ASEAN countries navigate the challenges and opportunities of the net-zero transition, the momentum generated by the Dialogue is expected to contribute to stronger climate governance, greater investment readiness, and more effective implementation of climate solutions on the ground.

The Dialogue serves as a foundational step toward building a resilient, low-carbon future for Southeast Asia—one grounded in partnership, innovation, and a commitment to a just transition.

Photo Gallery: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCLszU

About Race to Net Zero Philippines

Race to Zero Philippines is a national campaign established by the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP) that mobilizes businesses, local governments, academic institutions, and civil society organizations to accelerate climate action and support the transition toward a net-zero future, aligned with the goals of the UN-backed Race to Zero campaign.

For inquiries, contact us at programs@racetozeroph.com