by Klaus Döring
The close relations between the Philippines and the Federal Republic of Germany have been evident in all aspects, especially in the economic and cultural fields. From the 1970s to the 1990s several agreements have been made on financial and technical cooperation, in which the Federal Republic of Germany has become one of the most active partners in the progress and development of the Philippines.
Of course, the Philippine-German relations are built on the strong foundations that link the people and culture of two countries. Formal relations began only in the 1950s, but everything started already earlier, when Philippine national hero Dr. Jose Rizal stayed in Germany from 1886 to 1887. It was in Berlin where he published his novel NOLI ME TANGERE, which inspired the Philippine revolution of 1896.
Right now Germany helps the Philippines address climate change concerns. Of course, climate change is indeed a burning issue with social, economic and ecological concerns. Germany is addressing these global concerns with innovation, technological expertise and international commitment.
In the Philippines we have the Philippine Clear Air Act and the milestone Renewable Energy Act. Of course, the Philippines have reason to believe that fighting climate change is achievable.
In 2007, for example, Germany sourced over 14 percent of its energy requirements from renewable sources such as hydro, wind and solar. How about the Philippines?
Germany is targeting to source 27 percent of its energy requirements from renewable sources by 2020. In the Philippines the German government helps addressing climate change related concerns, among others , through the GTZ (Technische Gesellschaft fuer Zusammenarbeit) – German Technical Cooperation or the DED (Deutscher Entwicklungsdienst) – German Development Service. The GTZ also operates a branch office in Davao City, Bajada, near Victoria Plaza. Peter Reger, German friend of mine several years ago here in Davao City, has been connected to GTZ and the Chamber of Commerce in Davao City.
The Philippines is highly vulnerable to climate change impacts. While writing this piece a little bit earlier before deadline, because I’m leaving for a week vacation, I got the news, that super typhoon “Pepeng” spared the Philippines. Thanks God! Anyway, “Pepeng” wouldn’t be the last natural disaster for the Philippines.
Since 2005 a GTZ program called “Environment and Rural Development has assisted Regions 6 and 8 in areas such as coastal fisheries, community forest management, disaster preparedness, and the improvement of services delivery. Allow me to quote Mr. Jochem Lange, GTZ country director: “We understand that the struggle for sustainable development involves a process of ongoing negotiations, and that it has to be continuously replicated.”
GTZ also currently has programs to help local governments establish sustainable solid waste management. In my opinion: very important and necessarily. I am sure, we all still remember the media reports from the last weeks. I saw it on television. You too! De la Costa, Montalban was one of the areas worst hit by “Ondoy”… .
Last night (October 2, 2009) I received a text message from an unknown texter: “Dear Lord, we fervently pray for your intercession so that our nation will be spared from another threatening typhoon. Our suffering people have not recovered from Ondoy’s wrath… .”
Prayers help also!
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