Join the Movement: Urgent Call to Leaders for Environmental Action Now!

As local officials step into their new roles, civil society groups are urging them to prioritize every Filipino’s right to a clean and healthy environment. They believe these leaders can make a big difference by using their powers to protect public health and the environment, especially now, when we face pollution, climate change, and biodiversity loss.

Aileen Lucero, the National Coordinator of the EcoWaste Coalition, expressed hopes that elected officials will engage with citizens and follow important laws, like the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act and the Clean Air Act. These laws are crucial for a sustainable future.

Organizations like the Mother Earth Foundation and the Partnership for Clean Air are also pushing local governments to enforce the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act strictly. They want to see a reduction in waste produced by households and businesses.

Sonia Mendoza, Chairperson of the Mother Earth Foundation, highlighted the need for local rules against single-use plastics and penalties for those who don’t comply. Such steps can boost community participation in waste management.

Rene Pineda, President of the Partnership for Clean Air, suggested that LGUs should not only enforce waste laws but also form cooperatives to help with waste management efforts, like urban gardening. Transparency in budgets related to waste management was also emphasized to build accountability.

Neneng Lava from the Philippine Rural Reconstruction Movement called for local governments to enhance waste segregation, improve collection methods, and make sure recycling facilities operate effectively. She stressed the importance of reducing plastic use and promoting reusable materials.

In Cebu, the Action for Nurturing Children and Environment (ANCE) echoed these messages, advocating for strict waste segregation and regular garbage pickups. They also urged action against open dumping.

Experts like Carmela Marie Santos from Ateneo de Davao University warned against waste-to-energy incineration. She proposed zero-waste programs focusing on reducing plastic and enhancing green spaces. Creating walkable streets and better public transport can also lead to more sustainable cities.

Jing Rey Henderson from Caritas Philippines highlighted the significance of ecological justice. She urged local officials to ensure clean water access and climate resilience while promoting renewable energy. Henderson emphasized that local governments should protect waste workers and foster public participation.

The hope is that new leaders will act with honesty and transparency, placing people and the environment first. This collective vision can pave the way for a healthier and more sustainable future for all Filipinos.

Research supports these calls for action to combat climate change. According to a report by the Global Climate Risk Index, the Philippines ranks among the countries most affected by climate-related disasters. This underscores the urgency for local governments to act decisively.

For more insights, you can check the full report from Germanwatch.

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