EARTH HOUR.Representatives from various youth organizations in Negros Occidental joined the observances of Earth Hour 2022 at Bacolod City’s Provincial Capitol grounds on Saturday, March 26, 2022. The Provincial Environment Management Office initiated the event. It was highlighted by the lighting candles that formed the 60+ symbol and the switching off of lights at 8:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. (Photo courtesy PIO Negros Occidental
BACOLOD CITY – The province of Negros Occidental has renewed its commitment to protect the environment during the observance of Earth Hour 2022 at the Provincial Capitol grounds here on Saturday night.
Joined by representatives from 14 youth organizations, the event, themed “Shape Our Future”, was highlighted by the lighting of candles formed into the 60+ symbol, which is the campaign’s main logo, and the switch-off of lights from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Eugenio Jose Lacson, Governor, said in a video message that the people must accept responsibility for their contribution to climate change and acknowledge their part in it.
He observed that the Negrenses were not only aware of the gravity and impact of climate change on the planet but are also ready to take an active role in changing the course of environmental destruction.
“Let this undertaking be the start of the many measures we are going to take to protect our habitat. Not only for ourselves, but most importantly for our children and the generations next,” he added.
Julie Ann Bedrio (head of the Provincial Environment Management Office) said that the Earth Hour is more than a program. She also spoke at the event.
“This is a symbol of unity to combat all forms of destructions against our planet and our steadfast commitment to continue the fight for a greener and healthier Mother Earth,” she added.
She stated that the Earth Hour was not a one hour event, but a daily commitment to a healthier earth and a more sustainable environment.
“As stewards of our planet, we must all take action and make it an everyday decision to save the environment. Together, let us shape the future,” Bedrio said.
Josh Eusebio, Bacolod Youth Coalition for Democracy’s youth representative, discussed climate justice issues with Nicole Wong of Linghod. Bianca Montilla, Youth for Climate Hope, responded to the call for action.
Observed every fourth Saturday of March, the Earth Hour aims to encourage people, governments, and businesses to recognize their ecological footprint and start thinking about how to take responsibility for managing it in a more sustainable way, and also to seek out the facts about climate change and its impact on the earth and people’s lives.
According to earthhour.org, “everyone has a part to play in shaping a new future for people and planet, from taking individual steps towards living sustainably to urging companies and governments to help build a nature-positive and carbon-neutral future.” (PNA)