The original version of this article can be found on the WWF-Philippines website. Banner image from WWF-Philippines Facebook page.

Makati City has been named the National Winner of WWF’s 2024 One Planet City Challenge (OPCC), the largest climate initiative for cities globally which this year saw 359 participating cities from 48 countries. 62 global finalists have been declared, with Makati, Baguio, and Tagum topping the Philippine entries.

Experts from various global organizations, including ICLEI, evaluated the cities based on ambitious climate targets, preparedness for future challenges, and the comprehensiveness of their climate action plans, among other criteria.

“Studies have shown that cities are among the biggest contributors of greenhouse gases and so it is also at the city level where solutions must come in the form of appropriate environmental policies and climate action plans,” Imee Bellen, WWF-Philippines OPC Project Manager said. “With its critical role as a financial district of Metro Manila, Makati City has strongly displayed the need for urban areas to signify its commitment to sustainable development and alignment to the Paris Agreement,” Bellen added.

Makati, with a population of about 630,000, stood out among participants for its dedication to urban climate action. The 2024 jury, impressed by Makati’s climate visions and 1.5°C alignment for 2030 and 2050 development goals, praised the city’s diverse and inclusive climate actions.

The OPCC encourages cities to set ambitious climate goals in line with the Paris Agreement. This year saw increased city participation and alignment with the 1.5°C global warming limit.

As a national winner, Makati will compete in WWF’s We Love Cities contest, where residents can vote and suggest local sustainability improvements. This contest will run starting on October, concluding on World Cities Day, October 31.

The OPCC Global Winners will be announced in November 2024 at the UN World Urban Forum in Cairo.

A local award ceremony will be held for all participating Philippine cities before the end of the year, with regional ceremonies planned for selected national finalists and winners.