Bacolod City Officials Represent Philippines at United Nations Air Quality Conference in Bangkok
Officials from Bacolod City, Philippines, actively participated in the Better Air Quality (BAQ) International Conference 2026, a significant event organized by the United Nations, held in Bangkok, Thailand from March 11 to 13, 2026. The city's delegation included key figures dedicated to urban planning and environmental management.
Delegation Composition and Conference Overview
The Bacolod City Government was represented by Councilor Caesar Distrito, who chairs the City Council Committee on Urban Planning and Development; Dr. Mary Jean Ramos, head of the City Planning and Development Office (CPDO); and Dr. Anna Maria Laarni Pornan, head of the Bacolod City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Department (BCDRRMD). This conference brought together approximately 900 delegates from 45 countries, including Philippine representatives, to foster knowledge exchange, share best practices, and enhance global cooperation in combating air pollution and improving urban air quality.
Councilor Distrito emphasized that Bacolod's involvement was part of the Urban Act Project, a program supported by GIZ Philippines in partnership with Clean Air Asia–Philippines, which sponsored the delegation's attendance. This project identifies Antipolo City, Bacolod City, and Tagbilaran City as pilot cities working towards sustainable urban development and enhanced air quality management.
Local Initiatives and Global Learning
During the conference, Distrito presented the Bacolod Comprehensive Anti-Smoking Ordinance, legislation he authored and has continuously advocated for, highlighting its implementation and impact from 2016 to 2025. He stated, "Our experience shows that strong local legislation, coupled with consistent enforcement and public awareness, can make a real difference in safeguarding the health of our communities. The fight for clean air is not only a global advocacy but also a local responsibility that cities like Bacolod continue to embrace."
In addition to the anti-smoking initiative, the delegation showcased other local programs contributing to Bacolod's Clean Air agenda, such as the Tree Park Project and the Solar Energization of the Bacolod City Government Center and 16 barangay halls. These efforts demonstrate the city's commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly governance.
Insights and Future Strategies
Distrito noted that Bacolod's participation provided a valuable opportunity to learn from international experiences and innovative solutions in managing air pollution and promoting sustainable urban planning. He added, "Our participation in the Better Air Quality Conference allows Bacolod City to strengthen its initiatives on sustainable urban development and environmental protection." By adopting global best practices, the city aims to develop better policies and programs to ensure cleaner air and a healthier environment for its residents.
Dr. Pornan highlighted that the conference featured discussions on air quality management, sustainable urban mobility, climate and health impacts, and innovative technologies aimed at reducing air pollution in rapidly growing cities. Dr. Ramos expressed hope that through this participation, Bacolod City would bring home new strategies and partnerships to support ongoing efforts in building a more resilient, sustainable, and environmentally responsible urban community.
The delegates also expressed gratitude to Mayor Greg Gasataya for the opportunity to represent the city on this international platform, underscoring the importance of local leadership in global environmental initiatives.
