Senator Loren Legarda is urging the government to adopt eco-friendly strategies to address the country’s energy crisis, stressing that environmental protection is directly tied to economic stability.
Legarda highlighted that rising global tensions, particularly in the Middle East, are already driving up electricity and transport costs for Filipino households.
To mitigate these impacts, she proposed long-term sustainable measures such as expanded mangrove reforestation, watershed rehabilitation, and urban greening.
“When the cost of energy rises, everything else follows, from what we eat to how we live. This is why protecting the environment is no longer separate from protecting our economy and people,” Legarda stated.
Known for championing landmark legislation such as the Clean Air Act and the Climate Change Act, Legarda emphasized that the observance of Earth Month should serve as a catalyst for a “whole-of-nation” approach to conservation.
She also encouraged public participation in collective actions like Earth Hour to demonstrate the impact of community involvement.
“We must protect the planet that sustains us. Clean air, clean water, and a healthy environment are rights that must be safeguarded for all Filipinos. Kapag nasisira ang ating kalikasan, ang unang naaapektuhan ay ang pamilyang Pilipino,” she added.