A delegation from Bacolod City is currently participating in the Better Air Quality (BAQ) International Conference 2026, organized by the United Nations in Bangkok, Thailand, from Wednesday to Friday, March 11 to 13.,
Representing Bacolod City are Councilor Caesar Z. Distrito, Chairperson of the Sangguniang Panlungsod 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).
The conference brings together around 900 delegates from 45 countries, including representatives from the Philippines, to exchange knowledge, share best practices, and strengthen global cooperation in addressing air pollution and improving urban air quality.
The Bacolod delegation’s participation is part of the Urban Act Project, a program supported by GIZ Philippines with partner organization Clean Air Asia–Philippines, which sponsored the delegation’s participation in the conference.
The project identifies Antipolo City, Bacolod City, and Tagbilaran City as pilot cities working toward sustainable urban development and improved air quality management.
Distrito said that Bacolod’s participation in the conference provides an opportunity for the city to learn from international experiences and innovative solutions in managing air pollution and promoting sustainable urban planning.
“Our participation in the Better Air Quality Conference allows Bacolod City to strengthen its initiatives on sustainable urban development and environmental protection. By learning from global best practices, we can develop better policies and programs that will ensure cleaner air and a healthier environment for Bacolodnons,” Distrito said.
Pornan said “the conference features discussions on air quality management, sustainable urban mobility, climate and health impacts, and innovative technologies aimed at reducing air pollution in rapidly growing cities.”
Ramos also said “through its participation, Bacolod City hopes to bring home new strategies and partnerships that will support the city’s continuing efforts to build a more resilient, sustainable, and environmentally responsible urban community”.*
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