Metro LGUs to join Earth Hour observance, call on residents to switch off non-essential lights

MANILA, Philippines — Several Metro Manila local government units will join the observance of Earth Hour on Saturday, calling on residents to switch off non-essential lights and take part in the global campaign for environmental protection. The main Earth Hour Philippines event, organized with WWF-Philippines, will be held at Arcovia City in Pasig, with doors opening at 4:30 p.m., while the symbolic switch-off of non-essential lights is set at exactly 8:30 p.m. Pasig City called on residents to take part in the observance either by joining the ceremonial switch-off at Arcovia City or by turning off non-essential lights from their homes, offices or public spaces. The WWF-Philppines said the Arcovia City event would also feature performances from local music artists like Lola Amour, Clara Benin and The Ridleys ahead of the symbolic lights-off. In its advisory, the Pasig city government said even small actions could create a wider impact when done collectively, as it encouraged residents to spread the campaign among their families, friends and neighbors. Pasay City will also take part in the annual lights-off movement, with Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano urging the public to become more conscious of their role in protecting the environment. “Today, we join the rest of the world in honoring and caring for our ultimate provider of what we have today, Mother Earth,” Calixto-Rubiano said. She said Pasay was moving toward its goal of becoming a smart and sustainable eco-city, adding that the city wanted to be at the forefront of efforts to protect the planet. “Together, let us be eco-conscious advocates and take part in this year’s Earth Hour,” she said. WWF-Philippines said Earth Hour began in Sydney in 2007, when people switched off their lights for one hour to show support for the planet, and has since grown into a global movement joined by millions each year. The group said the annual observance may not solve the climate crisis on its own, but it serves as a reminder that many people around the world still care and are willing to take part in collective action for the environment. Other Metro Manila city governments also issued similar calls for participation as local officials encouraged communities across the capital region to observe the one-hour switch-off.

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