ADB and WJP Navigate the Legal Dimensions of Air Quality Governance with Philippine Policymakers

ADB’s Law and Policy Reform (LPR) Program and the World Justice Project (WJP) are currently conducting a series of government consultations with environmental policymakers in the Philippines. Representatives of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), were in attendance, notably from its Air Quality Management Section, Climate Change Service, Environmental Law Enforcement and Protection Service (ELEPS), and Legal Affairs Service. These consultations are designed to inform the development of the Environmental Policy Dashboard—a project that will assess the drivers and dynamics of air quality governance across more than 50 indicators—and, in the process, identify implementation gaps, shape policy responses, and guide investment. 

Participants of the first round of consultations held on 3 and 16 June shared their insights and experiences on emerging policy developments, and the corresponding technical, financial, and legal challenges. They also explored how to bridge the gap between legal commitments and practical implementation; enhance coordination and coherence across agencies and levels; and leverage data and monitoring to target action.