Mae Mangubos, OML Center communications specialist, explains the landscape
of climate change adaptation in the Philippines through the ridge-to-reef
approach
OSCAR M. Lopez (OML) Center participated in the Philippine Development Youth Congress (PDYC) 2026 held at Ateneo de Manila University, where it highlighted the role of young people in advancing climate action and strengthening resilience efforts in the country.
In her keynote presentation, OML Center communications specialist Mae Mangubos discussed the state of the Philippine climate and the need to strengthen community resilience through evidence- and risk-based solutions. Mangubos also underscored the role of Filipino youth in driving climate action, both in shaping policy directions and championing initiatives at the community level. She encouraged the participants to actively engage in developing solutions that are responsive to the risks their communities are currently facing.
PDYC is the flagship project of the Development Society of the Ateneo. It seeks to strengthen the capacities of young people through a series of talks and workshops that equip them with development-related skills while providing a platform for meaningful engagement in their communities.
This year’s PDYC gathered 39 youth leaders from across the country under the theme “ALAB: Igniting the Fire within Tomorrow’s Trailblazers.” The event served as a space for collaboration and dialogue among young leaders as they explored ways to address pressing development challenges, including the climate crisis.
