PH shows stronger progress in SDGs
The Philippines is showing stronger progress on its efforts related to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), even as the broader Asia-Pacific region is projected to miss most of these targets by 2030, according to the United Nations (UN).
Latest data from the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (Escap) indicated that the Philippines is improving across a majority of the 17 SDGs.
More than 75 percent of measured targets are on a positive trajectory in four goals: No Poverty, Affordable and Clean Energy, Reduced Inequalities and Responsible Consumption and Production.
Among these, Affordable and Clean Energy emerged with the country’s best results for SDGs. But at the other end, the country registered the weakest performance in terms of Partnership for the Goals.
More than half-done
Meanwhile, 10 SDGs recorded progress in between 50 percent and 75 percent of their measured targets.
Two SDGs—gender equality and sustainable cities and communities—fell within the 25-percent to 50-percent range.
Climate action was not measured, as Escap found that fewer than one-third of its targets have sufficient data.
Out of 234 indicators, the Philippines is performing well in 96, with improving trends since 2015.
About 30 indicators are either stagnant or show mixed progress and 32 have been regressing since 2015.
Also, 73 indicators have insufficient data and three are not applicable.
Regionally, however, the picture is far more sobering.
Escap warned that the Asia-Pacific region is expected to miss 103 out of 117 measurable SDG targets by 2030. This accounts for 88 percent, which the commission said reveals a “picture of deeply imbalanced development in the region.”
“With just five years remaining to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Asia-Pacific region stands at a critical crossroads,” the report read.
Potential leader
“Its economic dynamism, demographic weight, and innovation potential position it as a global leader. Yet this promise is overshadowed by persistent challenges, including rapid urbanization, climate vulnerability, widening inequalities, and demographic shifts,” it added.
According to Escap, most setbacks are seen in ensuring equal access to education and compliance with labor rights.
Meanwhile, insufficient data on gender equality, peace, justice and strong institutions continues to obscure a clear understanding of progress.
Even so, notable gains were recorded in Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, Good Health and Well-Being, No Poverty and Clean Water and Sanitation.
“However, despite these achievements, the region is not on track to achieve any of the 17 SDGs, underscoring the urgent need for coordinated and accelerated action,” Escap said.
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