Naga City --The local government unit (LGU) here, will join other cities and towns all over the world in turning off their lights for one hour at 8:30 pm on March 28, as a significant action against global warming.
Dubbed as Earth Hour 2009, the event wishes to send a “powerful global message” that there are meaningful actions which can be undertaken to neutralize the environmental phenomenon like by shutting down the lights to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Lights of major landmarks, thoroughfares and business districts here are to be switched off during the event which is expected to be carried out simultaneously in other parts of the world.
According to the organizers of Earth Hour Philippines, turning off the lights will send a message to world leaders who will be participating in the 2009 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen, Denmark about the need to build a commitment of action to reduce gas emissions.
Secretary Angelo T. Reyes of the Department of Energy (DOE) and Chief Executive Officer Jose Ma. Lorenzo Tan of WWF-Philippines said the country will once again join millions of communities all over the world in the symbolic act.
Among the highlights of the Earth Hour Philippines 2009 are the Earth Hour Countdowns, live concert and entertainment presentations to be held in key provinces and cities from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm on March 28.
Like in previous year, LGUs are requested to mobilize the community to switch off lights in their households and organize its own Earth Hour event.
The support of the private sector has been solicited by switching off their signage lights or some of their lights in their facilities as their operations or businesses will allow. (PNA)