People urged: Join in Earth Hour event

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu City residents are encouraged to observe the Earth Hour on Saturday by turning off their lights and other electric-powered appliances for at least one hour.

Cebu City Environment and Natural Resources Office head Ma. Nida Cabrera said that combatting climate change is not just a responsibility of the government but a shared responsibility of everyone.

“Akong panawagan sa mga tawo sa pag-shut off sa suga bisan dili tanan, kato lang dili kaayo nila gamiton para sa pag-conserve sa energy (I am calling the people to turn off the lights, not necessary all but at least those that are not needed, to conserve energy)” she said.

Earth Hour is an annual event organized by the government and other non-government organizations (NGOs) to create awareness on the effects of global warming and how the public can contribute to reduce carbon emission.

“Ang atoang kampanya (our campaign) for climate change responses is not to be dependent to energy consumption labi na mahal ang gasoline (especially that gasoline is expensive),” she said.

CCENRO has prepared an activity at the Plaza Independencia on Saturday starting at 8:30 p.m. Cabrera said the turning off of the lights will highlight the program. There will be other activities but she could not divulge yet because the program is still being finalized.

But Cabrera said the activity is in partnership with HABAGAT, organizer of the night bike ride. She said this is not the first time for HABAGAT to hold a bike ride in the city. Last year, around 5, 000 bikers also joined the event.

This year, the possible route for the bike ride will be from Plaza Independencia, left turn to Legaspi Extension, right turn to MJ Cuenco Avenue, then Imus Avenue, left to Gen. Maxilom Avenue, right turn to Gorordo Avenue, left turn to N. Escario St, then left turn to Osmeña Boulevard then back to Plaza Independencia.

Cabrera said the city government is currently conducting a study to establish bike lanes. She said they are encouraging people to ride bicycle in going to work.

“Naa mi initial discussion about aning bike lanes (we have initial discussed the bike lanes). But for now, I am encouraging the public to bike to work,” Cabrera said. — FPL (FREEMAN)