On the 5th cycle of the biennial One Planet City Challenge (OPCC) in the Philippines, 28 Philippine cities joined this global initiative. From this roster, the cities of Baguio, Makati, and Tagum were shortlisted as National Finalists for the second year in a row showing their consistent climate leadership.

This result is based on climate data reported through the CDP-ICLEI Track, which was then evaluated using the OPCC Assessment Tool. Selection for the shortlist is heavily based on the outcomes of the assessment, which would indicate the cities that demonstrate the closest alignment to the Paris Agreement's goal of limiting global warming to 1.5°C, specifically through robust mitigation and adaptation targets alongside concrete actions to reduce emissions and climate impacts. 

Cities are recognized as the areas of fastest transformation and growth—from population and consumption of natural resources to the generation of waste. Contributing over 70% of global greenhouse gas emissions, these urban areas are critical in transitioning towards a low-carbon and sustainable future. Consequently, cities’ efforts in planning, implementing, and monitoring climate strategies are essential to driving this transformative shift. 

Since the start of the OPCC in 2011, this 2025-2026 cycle has seen the highest level of participation in a single cycle, with over 380 cities across 51 countries joining globally. All these cities' efforts contribute greatly  towards a more sustainable future for the country. 

Atty. Angela Ibay, Head of the Climate and Energy Programme at WWF-Philippines, shared that, “A decade into the OPC journey in the Philippines, we are inspired by the continued commitment of our partner cities and are proud to witness more local governments stepping up to lead climate action. We have seen how cities have evolved from simply reporting data to implementing inclusive, adaptive, and science-based solutions that serve as a blueprint for a sustainable future.” 

Tagum City fitness area behind the City Hall. WWF Philippines / Imee Bellen.