Bill for ‘environmental migrants’ in PH filed
ENVIRONMENTAL migrants, particularly from small island developing states (SIDS) constantly facing threats due to climate change, may soon find the Philippines their refuge once a bill that would allow them entry gets Congress’ nod.
House Bill 10490, which will amend Section 47 of Commonwealth Act 613 or the Philippine Immigration Act of 1940, was filed by Reps. Edcel Lagman, Pablo John Garcia, Zia Alonto Adiong, Samuel Versoza Jr. and Robert Ace Barbers last May 27.
The bill’s authors highlighted a commitment to humanitarian duty and stressed the Filipino tradition of offering refuge in times of crisis, as research from the Intercontinental Panel on Climate Change underscores the urgency of the issue.
“As a nation that has historically opened its doors to refugees, we must recognize and respond to the new challenges posed by climate change,” Adiong said.
Versoza said the bill was a “testament” to the Philippines’ commitment to uphold human rights and international responsibility.
“It is a proactive measure that not only addresses the immediate needs of climate refugees but also sets a precedent for global responses to similar crises,” Versoza added.
As proposed, the bill will include a new paragraph in the Philippine Immigration Act that will allow the President of the Philippines to admit foreigners who are “environmental migrants” seeking protection from climate change-related harms.
“This amendment is a response to the escalating crisis faced by populations in low-lying island nations, who are at risk of losing their homes due to rising sea levels and severe weather events,” the authors said.
The authors believe that the Philippines, despite experiencing its own severe weather impacts, is also positioned as a leader in advocating for the rights and protections of climate refugees on the international stage.