Mayon Volcano Natural Park benefits from Earth Hour campaign

News Release
March 28, 2011

            LEGAZPI CITY - While the whole world awaited for Earth Hour last Saturday (March 26, 2011), Legazpi City was also geared up for the Run for EArth Consciousness Hour (R.E.A.C.H.) which aims to gather support for Mayon Volcano Natural Park.

           

            Braving the cold and damp Saturday night run, REACH runners estimated at almost 700 eco-conscious participants negotiated their 5 kilometer route through darkness and drizzle brought by the lingering wind convergence.

Equipped only with reflector sticks to keep mobile traffic at bay, runners dashed their way from Bicol University track and field ground to major thoroughfares of the city then finished at the Quezon Avenue.

            Top runners of the REACH run are Martin Balaybo, the fastest in men’s category and Begoña Julian, a Spanish runner routing local athletes in the distaff side.

            Earth Hour candle lighting at 8:30 – 9:30 p.m. followed the awarding ceremonies. A sea of candles forming the word “MAYON” lit the downtown district of Legazpi City.

During the Earth Hour vigil, the race organizers provided talks on the significance of heeding the Earth Hour, lowering carbon emission and planting more trees to help mitigate climate change.

            “This vigil of runners and environmentalists is a sign of commitment to conserve energy, lower carbon foot print, and campaign for forest rehabilitation true to the goals of the Earth Hour” explains REACH Race Director Yul Almayda.

            Almayda tapped the DENR for the Mayon Volcano Natural Park in Lidong, Sto. Domingo, Albay as its recipient. According to him a future date is set for the tree planting to compliment with the government’s objective under the National Greening Program.

Meanwhile, World Wildlife Fund – Philippines reported that for the third straight year the Philippines snatched the top spot with a record-breaking 1661 Filipino towns, cities and municipalities joining the rest of the world in taking a stand against climate change. Worldwide, a record 134 countries and territories took part in Earth Hour 2011. Numerous global organizations joined nearly a billion people across all continents to heed the hour.

In Bicol region, the DENR, through the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) advised local governments, industries and socio-civic groups to make a stand and join Earth Hour 2011. (JESSEL BASANTA)