EMB-7 to launch “Pasalamat sa Katawhan”

CEBU, Philippines - The Department of Environment and Natural Resources, through the Environmental Management Bureau-7, and the Office of the Ombudsman-Visayas will be recognizing individuals who have done something to protect the environment.

EMB-7 is scheduled to launch in March the "Pasalamat sa Katawhan," an even that will recognize ordinary citizens for their contribution to protect the mother earth.

The program was suggested by environmental lawyer Antonio Oposa Jr.

Oposa said that ordinary citizens who voluntarily observe the environmental laws should be recognized.

"The best form of law enforcement is when the Law does not need to be enforced it is when there is general compliance, a voluntary compliance" said Oposa.

Recognizing them is one way of advocating to people the importance of protecting the environment.

He said people should understand the law and observe them voluntarily.

Engineer Cindylyn Pepito, officer in-charge of Ambient Quality Monitoring Section of EMB-7, said the program will encourage people to protect the environment.

"Ating i-boost sa public nga if naa silay nabuhat na something good for the environment ato na silang i-praise," Pepito said.

She said anybody can nominate and can be nominated for the award.

The winners will be given plaque of recognition during the launching of the "Pasalamat sa Katawhan" on March 3, 2017 at the Casino Español.

Oposa said several officials will be invited to the launching, including officials from the other regions in the Visayas. (FREEMAN)