Tuesday, April 01, 2008 Earth Hour didn't get much support in Davao By Grace L. Plata
IF EARTH Hour was observed with gusto and excitement in other parts of the Philippines Saturday night, in Davao City there was hardly a ripple of participation to the global campaign initiated by the World Wide Fund aimed at creating awareness on climate change and to prove that people around the world working together can make a difference in the growing fight against global warming.
Most of the homes and establishments passed by this reporter in the city's main streets Saturday night had lights on. On the south part, darkness pervaded the Matina Town Square from 8 to 9 p.m. and patrons of the bars and restaurants within dined by candlelight but there was a festive mood about.
A shop owner said she and her husband prepared for the activity and had encouraged their children to be present.
Councilor Leonardo Avila III, chair of the committee on environment and natural resources, said he and his family are observing Earth Hour in their home.
"This is really a manifestation of what a global effort can do to address a global concern. It is a proof of man's resilience," Avila said in a text message the same night.
Councilor Peter Laviña said he and the other council members who were in Manila for the Philippine Councilor's League assembly are supportive of the move and the hotel where they were staying was also observant of the Earth Hour.
Lia Jasmin Esquillo, executive director of Interface Development Interventions -- a non-government organization (NGO) advocating environmental conservation, said she, Idis staff, and their partners observed Earth hour.
"Any effort, big or small, will help change the course of Mother Earth's sad state. I am doing it basically for our kid's future. It is also a good opportunity to educate the children about caring for the environment," Esquillo said.
Outside these individuals and MTS, however, lights were on, including streetlights.
