Environmentalists to stage rally in support of Gina Lopez

BACOLOD CITY - Environment conservation advocates are preparing for a nationwide activity to show their support for former Environment Secretary Gina Lopez, whose appointment was rejected by the Commission on Appointments (CA) on Wednesday.

Greenpeace Philippines Climate and Energy campaigner Reuben Muni, who is currently in Bacolod City for various engagements, said they are now doing consultations with other groups including the members of the Green Thumb Coalition.

Muni said the activity is their way of showing their frustration on what they call the “unjust” rejection of her appointment.

“We are now gathering forces across the country to strongly voice out our disgust and disappointment over the refusal to confirm the secretary,” he said, adding that “the action is already a sure thing, we just need to decide when is the best time to do it.”

Lopez is the second appointee of President Rodrigo Duterte whose appointment was rejected by the CA, following Perfecto Yasay as Foreign Affairs chief.

For Greenpeace, a non-government environmental organization, Lopez’s rejection is a set back to the government especially in the DENR.

Muni cited that in a very short time, the former secretary was able to institute reforms which the previous administration failed to do.

This includes the rehabilitation of the areas affected by mining operations in the country, which is now gaining positive impact to the environment.   

Muni said there is very little chance that the decision of the CA will be reversed but the group is optimistic that through the protest action they can create awareness among the Filipino people.

Greenpeace Southeast Asia executive director Yeb Saño, in a statement, said the rejection of Lopez is a rejection of change.

Saño said it’s very disappointing and worrying, and shows how destructive industries continue to hold Philippine lawmakers by their necks.

“We thought that this administration is serious in implementing change by appointing a true environmentalist in the DENR,” he added. — BAP, GMA News