Bantayan LGUs mark Earth Day with mangrove planting

CEBU, Philippines — In celebration of Earth Day 2021, the three municipalities of Bantayan Island have conducted an island-wide simultaneous mangrove/tree planting activities yesterday.

The activity aims to promote awareness of the growing problems of climate change, air, water and land pollution.

The event was participated and actively supported by all stakeholders within the three municipalities of Santa Fe, Bantayan and Madridejos.

The municipality of Santa Fe also organized the “Sikad Para sa Kinaiyahan”, a cycling competition and Zumba dancing exercise.

The Environmental Management Bureau 7 in partnership with the Pollution Control Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PCAPI) in Region 7 and PCAPI-Foundation also conducted seminar-workshop on environmental laws focusing on the involvement of the youth sector in environmental management for the different youth leaders, and Sangguniang Kabataan leaders in the said towns.

Department of Environment and Natural Resources 7 regional director Paquito Melicor Jr. said that this Earth Month, he is encouraging everyone to take a step forward towards conservation and restoration of the Earth.

“Through simple actions like engaging in tree growing activities, proper waste segregation and proper waste segregation and clean-up drives in the convenience and safety of our homes each of us can contribute positive effects for our environment,” Melicor said.

On the other hand, the Department of Finance and Climate Change Commission chairperson-designate Carlos G. Dominguez said that the climate body’s emphasis on addressing the challenge of single-use plastics will be under the theme of “PINASiglang Mundo,” which ties into the global theme for this year to “Restore Our Earth” and drive planetary protection and action.

“On this year’s Earth Day, we are called to Restore Our Earth. To do that, one of the most important actions we have to take is to push for effective policies and realistic solutions to address the growing challenges from single-use plastics pollution, and to set us on the path of sustainable consumption and production,” Dominguez said in a statement.

This year’s Earth Day 2021 celebration highlights the role of every individual and member of the community to address the global climate crisis and its resulting effects on ecosystems, biodiversity, food and water, public health, industries, and communities.

Presidential Proclamation No. 1481 in April 2008 declared April 22 as “Philippines’ Earth Day.” — GMR (FREEMAN)