In a recent “Walk, Run & Bike for the Environment”, Regional Executive Director Isabelo Montejo of the Department of Environment & Natural Resources recognized the thousands of student-participants as powerful agents of climate change advocates.
Montejo called on the students from the different colleges and universities in Dumaguete to bring forth collective action to address the various environmental challenges.
“One of the global challenges that the people are facing right now is climate change. The vitality and sense of involvement of the youth are needed to be empowered citizens and as partners in pursuing to protect and conserve environment and natural resources,” cited Montejo.
Climate change alters the frequency and intensity of weather events, he said.
Super typhoons and cyclones are causing widespread devastations, loss of lives and properties and cause sufferings of the populace.
Montejo cited super typhoon Yolanda that brought devastating effects to communities along the coastlines thus, storm surges could happen and this is the “new normal”.
In the same event, young people expressed their concern over the increasing threat posed by rising global carbon emissions and the changing climate.
For his part, Gov. Roel Degamo, through his executive assistant Angelo Tiongson, cited the importance of young people being environmentally conscious with transportation choices that can make a big impact on reducing emissions.
Montejo strongly considered collective responsibility and people’s commitment by protecting and keeping the environment as the country works for economic development. (rmn/JCT/PIA7-NegOr)
