Senator Sherwin “Win” Gatchalian on Tuesday marked National Environmental Awareness Month by urging Filipinos to take concrete actions to protect the environment amid the worsening impact of powerful typhoons.
“The increasingly destructive typhoons that have recently wrought havoc in the country serve as a stark reminder for our people to go beyond passive awareness and become active participants in protecting the environment,” Gatchalian said.
“This Environmental Awareness Month, we must raise the bar. Hindi lang basta kamalayan, dapat aksyon na!”
The statement followed Super Typhoon Uwan, which killed at least two people and displaced over a million.
Under Republic Act No. 9512, November is designated for promoting environmental protection and sustainable development, especially through youth education.
Gatchalian highlighted the need for community-driven efforts and urged participation in initiatives such as waste management, tree planting, and river cleanups.
“Hindi lang gobyerno, kundi bawat Pilipino ay may gampanin sa pangangalaga ng ating kapaligiran,” he said.