DAVAO CITY – Davao City has once again qualified to participate in the One Planet City Challenge (OPCC) for the 2025–2026 cycle, the local government said on Thursday.

City Planning and Development Coordinator Engr. Ivan Cortez bared in a television interview that One Planet Cities (OPC) recently recognized Davao among 28 global metropolises for its consistent prioritization of greenhouse gas emission reduction and its strong advocacy for sustainable development practices.

The One Planet City Challenge (OPCC) serves as a prominent global initiative that provides cities with a platform to showcase and further strengthen their environmental endeavors.

“We are immensely proud of Davao City’s achievement as a returning participant in this year’s challenge. This recognition underscores the city's unwavering commitment to sustainability and proactive climate action,” Cortez said.

He noted that while Davao City was not a finalist in the 2023–2024 cycle, its consistent engagement in the OPCC since 2019, including its recognition as a finalist in the 2021–2022 cycle, highlights the city's resilience and steadfast determination in pursuing environmental goals.

“Being identified as a ‘returning city’ is not merely an acknowledgment of past efforts but also serves as a significant encouragement for Davao to strive for even more ambitious climate objectives,” Cortez emphasized.

He attributed this achievement to the city's deep-rooted commitment to environmental protection, proactive climate change adaptation strategies, and consistent participation in global sustainability initiatives such as the OPCC.

“This valuable opportunity opens doors for forging new partnerships, securing crucial funding, and accessing vital technical support, all of which will further enhance the city’s comprehensive environmental programs,” he added.