ILOILO City – The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Jaro has intensified its environmental campaign, directing all parishes and faithful to reduce single-use plastics and conserve water and energy as part of a broader push for ecological stewardship this Jubilee Year of St. Francis, the patron saint of ecology and all creation.
Archbishop Midiyphil Billones issued the call through a circular letter released March 28, urging religious communities to move beyond symbolic participation and adopt sustained, concrete environmental actions in daily life.
“Inspired by the example of St. Francis, who embraced all creation as part of God’s family, we are called to renew our commitment to the responsible stewardship of our common home,” part of the circular stated.
The archbishop emphasized that while the recent March 28 Earth Hour’s lights-off activity served as a powerful symbol, it must translate into long-term environmental responsibility.
“In the face of ongoing challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and the depletion of natural resources, this annual observance invites us to deepen both our awareness and our concrete action,” Billones added.
Under the directive, parishes are urged to implement practical measures such as reducing single-use plastics, conserving water and energy, supporting sustainable food sources, and participating in reforestation, clean-up drives, and proper waste management.
The circular further underscored that environmental care is inseparable from social justice, noting that the poor and vulnerable are the most affected by ecological degradation.
“Let us, therefore, respond with faith and unity, affirming that the earth is the Lord’s and all that it holds. May our efforts reflect our love for God, for one another, and for the gift of creation entrusted to our care.”/PN