Lights out at BGC during Earth Hour

MANILA, Philippines - It was a rare occasion of global unity as Earth Hour was marked on March 28. Aimed at raising awareness on climate change, the ceremony did not pass unnoticed at Bonifacio Global City. Minutes before the designated time, and along with more than 80 countries all over the world, participants switched off their lights for decreased energy consumption. The Activity Area of Bonifacio High Street buzzed with excitement with a program hosted by Miss Philippines-Earth Water 2008, Marian Michelle Oblea and Miss Philippines-Earth Air 2008, Maria Razel Eguia, with performances by the Bonifacio Art Foundation Inc. adding to the fun.

The event was attended by Taguig City Mayor Sigfrido Tinga, who led the shutting down of lights. The countdown by the audience was reminiscent of New Year’s Eve except instead of lights from fireworks lighting up the sky, a slight darkness enveloped the surroundings after everyone had shouted “one!” This was followed by warm applause from all those present, congratulating each other for the willingness to sacrifice for the sake of the planet.

“I really appreciate the fact that we have people from the private sector who are also pushing the environmental agenda. We can’t do it alone, this has gone beyond the realm of the NGOs. Environmentalism used to be something cute, but now it’s a necessity, it should be a necessity,” Mayor Tinga said. “Activities like this address two major problems — ignorance and apathy. We’re excited to see more people realizing that we’d better do something about the environment now.”

Meean Dy, president of Bonifacio Global City Estate Association, Inc. and executive vice president of Fort Bonifacio Development Corporation, shared her enthusiasm for the project during her speech. “Earth Hour is premised on a very simple gesture but it is powerful because of the show of solidarity and support. It is refreshing and hopeful to see that the world can still come together for Mother Earth. I’m hoping this becomes part of our tradition, something to be excited about annually.”

To signify their commitment to saving the Earth, members of the audience were invited to sign on the backdrop of the stage. Those who affixed their signatures included representatives from the project partners Ayala Foundation, Inc., World Wildlife Fund, and Miss Earth Foundation, and sponsors Italianni’s and TGI Friday’s, Tetra Pack and the Net Group.

The World Wildlife Fund shared a video showing how Earth Hour started in just one city two years ago before it progressed to an international movement. Nelly Furtado and Cate Blanchett were just a few of the famous celebrities who attached their names to the advocacy. Throughout the significant hour, a film produced by the Presidential Task Force on Climate Change educated those in the vicinity about the dire effects of climate change and how every individual can take a proactive stand in solving the alarming problem that is bound to affect several generations.

The Fort Bonifacio Development Corporation (FBDC) is doing its share by ensuring that its developments comply with the Department of Energy and ASEAN energy standards as well as other best practices in the region. “We continuously strive to seek new technology and programs which will contribute to energy efficiency,” Noel Kintanar, head of Commercial Operations for FBDC, said.

Taguig has several ongoing environment-related programs. Electric tricycles are now plying some of their roads. “They’re more robust than the regular tricycle. No fuel, no fumes. We hope it catches on,” said Mayor Tinga. They also have Street Rangers who see to it that waste segregation is implemented. “People are beginning to understand what it is because somebody is setting an example and somebody is explaining to them. Aside from helping us clean up, this project has created jobs for people. A project that creates handicrafts out of water lilies is also being implemented. What used to be a problem for us is now an industry.”

He acknowledged that there is a long way to go before the earth’s situation can be turned around. “We’re nowhere near there, so many people still don’t care but we have to start somewhere,” he declared.

Aileen Zosa, Bases Conversion and Development Authority vice president for Planning and Business Development, summed it up beautifully when she said, “Individually, we can start simple initiatives. Collectively, we can save planet Earth.”