In between the Everyday and the Invisible: Climate Change Perception and Adaptation among Filipino Children
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Abstract
Children are highly vulnerable to the negative impacts of climate change (IPCC 2014) not only because of their limited physical, emotional and mental capabilities, but also because of the overall socioeconomic conditions that they are exposed to. However, there has been little information as to how children themselves understand and cope with the impacts of climate change and how other stakeholders—the city government, school, and households—provide “protective” services to address their unique vulnerabilities and capacities.
This study looked into the wide spectrum of climate-related risks affectingchildren in three communities in Malolos City, Bulacan, Philippines. Specifically, it explored the aggravating impacts of climate change on the “everyday risks” faced by children and their corresponding coping mechanisms following Lazarus and Folkman’s coping theory (1984). It then analyzed the measures being undertaken by the city, barangay, schools and families to protect children’s welfare. Upon identification and discussion of attendant gaps and issues, the paper ended with a set of recommendations to strengthen the resilience ofchildren in the midst of a changing climate.
Primary qualitative data were collected through a series of focus group discussions and key informant interviews involving children, city and barangay officials, school teachers, and parents. Windshield surveys and non-obtrusive observation were also conducted in the study areas between September and October 2014. Secondary data were likewise culled from official documents provided by the Malolos City Government.
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