Local chief executives enjoined to support Earth Hour 2010
Local chief executives in the country are enjoined to organize events and activities in line with the Earth Hour 2010 on March 27, this year.
Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Ronaldo Puno, in a memorandum circular, enjoined all provincial governors, city and municipal mayors and Punong Barangays to organize their Earth Hour activities in their respective jurisdictions.
Among the suggested activities in MC No. 2010- 10 dated February 16, 2010 are announcement of Earth Hour during flag-raising ceremonies; hanging of banners, streamers or tarpaulins to generate awareness of the event; switching off of non-essential lights and electrical appliances at the provincial, city and municipal halls for one hour or at least within the Earth Hour on March 27 (Saturday at 8:30 PM); and the use of fluorescent lights instead of incandescent bulbs in government installations.
Puno said participating in the activities organized for the Earth Hour event is tantamount to joining the international community in addressing global warming and ensuring a sustainable future for the present generation and generations to come.
Likewise, DILG Regional Directors were directed to disseminate the order to all local authorities within their respective areas.
In Western Visayas, DILG 6 Operations Services Division Chief Maria Calpiza Sardua said they have already sent the directive to all local chief executives in the region.
Last year, some 647 local government units and communities in the country participated during the one-hour activity by switching off lights in their homes, iconic buildings and landmarks to manifest their stand against climate change and global warming.
According to the Department of Energy who is spearheading the event in the country, Philippines ranked first among all nations who participated in the Earth Hour 2009. (PIA)
