Youth eyed for drive vs. climate change

CEBU, Philippines - A Talisay City-based environment group is now targeting the youth to become a big part of activities against climate change.

"Mas daghan sila and dali ra i-train," said Eric Auza, executive director of Center for Environment Initiatives (CEI), when asked by The FREEMAN why the younger generation.

The CEI, which has members from Talisay, is set to organize an eco youth camp next summer for the purpose of educating the youngsters about climate change.

That is just one of the out-of-the-tradition activities the organization has lined up for next year, said Auza. He said if they can help it they will do away with seminars, forums or the likes which are usually not interesting to the youth.

The other night, CEI hosted an environmental concert, participated by local or "bisrock" (Bisayang rock) and alternative bands-Mantakilya, Makadawa, Missing Felimon, Indie Phums among others--at the Talisay City Sports Complex.

The venue was not however filled to capacity as expected, but Auza said the positive result of it is that they gained support from the participating musical bands which assured to replicate the event in other areas.

"The concert is a shout out against climate change. It is to enjoin not only the bands but also the crowd to express their support against climate change," he said.

Auza also explained that last Sunday's activity was also in relation to the solid waste management, which is a current thrust to the city government. The city is reportedly set to implement on a full-scale RA 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act.

Auza believes it may take a while to ignite the city's youth to join them, but said with the local government's support, they will likely achieve it. - THE FREEMAN