Climate damage to Philippine ports could cost US$70b a year by 2100

Climate damage to Philippine ports could cost US$70b a year by 2100

Rising seas and fiercer typhoons threaten to paralyse trade lines, driving up food costs and devastating coastal communities

Analysts say the damage could cripple supply chains, drive up food prices and threaten livelihoods, urging Manila to adopt a more coordinated approach to flood protection rather than simply strengthening port infrastructure.

In its latest report titled “Asia-Pacific Climate Report 2026: Coastal Risks on the Rise – Actions for a Resilient Future”, the ADB said the Philippines could sustain US$20.6 billion in port damage under a moderate-emissions scenario, in which sea levels were projected to rise by 50cm to 80cm.