Join the March for Environmental Justice: Advocating for Good Governance and a Sustainable Future!

Civil society groups, church leaders, workers, and fisherfolk organizations are set to march for Environmental Justice and Good Governance this Friday at 9 a.m., just one day before the inauguration of Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson.

The march, starting at San Sebastian Cathedral and moving along Gatuslao Street to the Provincial Capitol, aims to highlight urgent calls for environmental protection, climate justice, and transparent governance as the province begins a new political term.

Titled “Kalibutan kag Katawhan Pamatian,” the protest focuses on communities facing environmental challenges. Key issues include:

• Environmental Concerns: The ecological and human rights situation in Candoni is alarming, primarily due to palm oil plantations.
• Threats to Fisherfolk: A recent Supreme Court ruling permits commercial fishing too close to the shore, jeopardizing small fishermen and marine life.
• Mining Projects: The DENR has approved magnetite mining along the coast from Sipalay to Sagay without proper consultation with local communities.

Joshua Villalobos from the Negrosanon Initiative for Climate and the Environment (NICE) stated, “We must remind our leaders that progress should not compromise people or the planet."

Participants will carry a People’s Environment Agenda to the Capitol, presenting specific policy demands for the new provincial leadership. This document, crafted by grassroots organizations, aims for a just and ecologically balanced Negros.

Fr. Julius Espinosa from the Caritas Bacolod Social Action Foundation expressed hope. “We march not just in protest but in hope that our leaders will act with conscience and courage.”

The fight for environmental justice is deeply linked to labor rights. Jun Ano from Bukluran ng Manggagawang Pilipino – Negros emphasized that, “Environmental destruction displaces workers. We need jobs that protect both people and the Earth.”

According to a recent survey by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies, 63% of respondents believe environmental degradation negatively impacts their livelihoods. This sentiment echoes among those who are most affected, including women and children, who often bear the brunt of environmental neglect.

Youth groups and food justice advocates are also joining the march. Jedd Ortilla from Food Not Bombs Bacolod voiced, “Negros must not become a playground for destructive industries. We need food sovereignty.”

Fr. Jolo Tormis of Lunhaw – Diocese of San Carlos highlighted the sacredness of land and sea, saying, “We are called to be stewards, not destroyers.”

This march is not just a protest; it’s a call to action. Organizers hope Governor Lacson will respond directly to the People’s Agenda. As they hit the streets, participants aim to awaken the community to their shared responsibility for environmental protection and the future of their land.

Source link