Election Candidates: Prioritize Public Service and Environmental Protection, Urges Envi Group

11 February 2025 – It’s that time again—election season! Soon, we’ll hear politicians promise to serve the people and the country. But real leaders must also care for our environment.

As the 2025 Philippine midterm elections kick off, the environmental group BAN Toxics stresses that all candidates need a strong environmental plan. This plan should tackle key issues like the waste crisis, plastic pollution, and the protection of public health from harmful chemicals in products and industries. They also need to focus on conserving forests and ensuring responsible mining practices.

Thony Dizon, from BAN Toxics, points out that taking care of our environment is crucial for public health. Environmental issues greatly affect our lives, our health, and the future of coming generations. Candidates must understand that these issues are interconnected with public welfare.

Dizon suggests that a simple way for candidates to show their commitment is by using eco-friendly campaign materials. He supports the Commission on Elections’ recent call for the use of biodegradable materials to cut down on waste during the campaign.

According to COMELEC Resolution No. 11111, candidates are encouraged to choose recyclable and environmentally safe materials for their campaigns. They should also avoid any items that contain harmful chemicals, as outlined in another recent resolution.

This resolution highlights the serious environmental problems caused by plastic production and use. It stresses the impacts on marine life, wildlife, and human health. The effects of elections on the environment go beyond just voting—they also involve the depletion of resources and increased pollution.

Dizon further reminds candidates not to post campaign materials on trees. Under Republic Act 3571, it’s illegal to damage trees and plants in public spaces. This law is in place to protect our natural surroundings.

BAN Toxics plans to share its own environmental agendas throughout the election period. Their goal is to guide candidates in incorporating environmental protection into their platforms and to make the public aware of urgent ecological issues.

In short, BAN Toxics emphasizes: serve the people while protecting the environment.