Highlights from Earth Day 2021 'Pinasiglang Mundo'
This year's Earth Day 2021, themed 'PINASiglang Mundo', 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.
Source: Climate Change Commission on Facebook
Hosted by Antonette Taus, the event started with a live “Jam For Earth” session led by GMA-7 singer-songwriter Aicelle Santos and was followed by a message from current Speaker of the House of Representatives, Lord Allan Velasco.
Velasco reiterated the legislative body's commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals of 2020 and in adjusting to the needs of the new normal. He went on to state that various legislations are being passed in Congress in order to address plastic waste pollution through the regulation of single-use plastic bags.
More messages from public officials were then previewed including one from President Rodrigo Duterte who reminded us all of our “inherent responsibility to take care of our environment”.
An Earth Day Pledge was also made by public leaders, legislators, personalities and stakeholders from different sectors in the country.
The host, Antonette Taus then gave viewers a refreshing Ukulele rendition of the song "From a Distance" by Bette Midler.
Legislators and policymakers then empowered viewers in the movement against climate change and plastic pollution with a discussion of the House Bills being authored in Congress.
They also elaborated the alternatives and initiatives being spearheaded by local government units in addressing the environment's needs.
This was followed by a short feature of the PH-UK partnership in developing a future that is plastic free.
Many fans were also delighted by the short appearance of K-Pop girl group BLACKPINK who lent their voices for the climate movement.
Actors Angel Locsin and Kuya Kim Atienza also appeared to state their commitment to help save the planet as “Climate Defenders”.
Videos from the #WalangPlastikanChallenge by personalities were also presented. Among the short clips came from content creator Nadine Felice who enumerated the steps she took in living a more sustainable lifestyle and how viewers can adapt to it, too.
Representatives from the business sector and civil society groups also pledged their support in preserving the earth by transitioning to more sustainable business strategies.
Every Filipino is welcome to join the call for support in promoting and addressing a healthier and more resilient Philippines.
You can join the movement of committing to our environment through the livestream here.
You may also watch the video here: