ILOILO City — With rising global temperatures and worsening plastic pollution threatening ecosystems, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 6 has called on Ilonggos to take immediate, collective action to protect the environment as the country observes the Month of Planet Earth this April.
The agency stressed that safeguarding the environment is no longer optional but a shared responsibility, warning that the past decade has been the warmest on record — an alarming trend that could trigger more extreme and unpredictable weather patterns.
“This April, we celebrate Month of the Planet Earth, a time to reflect on our shared responsibility to protect the only home we have. Our environment isn’t just a backdrop for our lives — it is our life support system,” DENR-6 said in a statement.
April is officially recognized as the Month of Planet Earth under Proclamation No. 1482, aimed at promoting environmental awareness and sustainable practices nationwide. This year’s Earth Day on April 22 carries the theme “Our Power, Our Planet,” highlighting the need for global action to restore environmental protections.
In Western Visayas, DENR-6 has intensified its advocacy through a social media campaign to remind the public of their role in environmental conservation.
The agency underscored the urgency of reducing plastic waste, citing global data showing that more than 380 million tons of plastic are produced annually, much of which ends up polluting oceans.
It also highlighted the role of trees in combating climate change, noting that a single mature tree can absorb over 48 pounds of carbon dioxide each year, helping clean the air.
DENR-6 emphasized that even small, everyday actions can make a significant impact. Among the recommended practices are using reusable bags, bottles, and straws to reduce single-use plastics; turning off lights and unplugging electronics when not in use; and supporting local farmers to cut down emissions from long-distance food transport.
The agency also encouraged community involvement, urging Ilonggos to participate in environmental initiatives such as park and beach cleanups, tree planting, and online advocacy.
“Month of Planet Earth is dedicated to reminding us that the earth is our only home. It’s a time to focus on protecting our air, water, and wildlife,” DENR-6 added, calling on the public to turn awareness into action./PN
