One-hour blackout planned for Earth Hour observance

DUMAGUETE CITY, Philippines — An hour black out would be carried out at least in this city, as its way of observing the Earth Hour today, from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., upon the suggestion of members of the City Council.

Councilor Dan Leon authored a resolution requesting City Mayor Manuel Sagarbarria to issue orders to all offices in the city to take part in shutting off power, including street lights, for one hour today to help raise public awareness about climate change.

Vice Mayor Woodrow Maquiling Sr., urged Dumagueteños to do their share in turning off their lights even for an hour, which would be a big contribution to reduction of power, simultaneous with other places in Philippines and other countries worldwide.

Councilor Manny Arbon also called on Sagarbarria to make representations with the Negros Oriental Electric Cooperative 2 over the possibility of shutting off power from Basay to Pamplona towns, except in hospitals and other responders. — Juancho R. Gallarde (FREEMAN)