Philippines' climate-resilient city faces hurdles of equity and sustainability

New Clark City, a $2.5 billion development north of Manila, aims to be a climate-proof metropolis but faces concerns over displaced Indigenous communities, economic inequality and dependence on fossil fuels.

Maggie Wang reports for Grist.

In short:

New Clark City is designed to be a backup capital, built inland to avoid flooding and typhoons that threaten Manila.
Critics argue the project may displace and 65,000 people — including 18,000 Indigenous Ayta people — without proper compensation or consent.
Despite sustainability claims, the city may struggle with limited affordable housing and reliance on fossil fuels.

Key quote:

“When you start building a new community, you alter the topography of the area, and therefore you also alter the way water flows.”

— Harold Aquino, civil engineer and disaster resilience researchers at Massey University of New Zealand

Why this matters:

Climate-resilient cities could protect vulnerable populations, but without inclusive planning, they risk deepening social inequalities and environmental harm. New Clark City is looking to find a balance between infrastructure resilience, cultural preservation and economic accessibility to serve all residents, not just the affluent.

grist.org

Philippines' climate-resilient city faces hurdles of equity and sustainability

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