EMB Urges Sign up for 10 Million Movement

LEGAZPI CITY, Apr.15--The Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) in Bikol is urging Bikolanos to ensure the recovery and continued protection of the environment by signing up for the 10 million movement (10MM).

EMB Bicol regional director Gilbert Gonzales said the 10MM was part of the campaign to gather 10 million commitments for the environment from all over the country.

"Under the movement, every Filipino is encouraged to commit to an environment-friendly act, which can be as simple as turning off the lights and all electrical appliances when not in use," he said.

Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Horacio Ramos, in partnership with SMART Communications, Inc., launched last month the "10 Million Movement" website as part of the run-up activities for Earth Day 2010.

Gonzales said those interested to be part of the "10 MM" can sign up via the website and choose from a list in the "I commit to?" dropdown menu. Email address, mobile number, city and province will be requested so that the signee can be contacted for future pro-environment activities in the area.

Mrs. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has declared April 22 as the "Philippines' Earth Day," through Presidential Proclamation No. 1481, amending Presidential Proclamation Nos. 553 and 1276, making Earth Day a permanent environment holiday in the Philippines.

Earth Day 2010's national theme is "Hamon ng Panahon Climate Change: 10 Milyung Solusyon (Kilos Na! Ngayon Na!).

"Climate Change is the most pressing issue for our country especially given the vulnerability of our country to its consequences as proven by our recent experiences with typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng," said EDNPI chairman and former Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Elisea Gozun during the launch held at the DENR Social Hall in Quezon City. (PNA)