Multi-sectoral group sets Earth Hour 'biking race'

Friday, March 25, 2011

A MULTI-SECTORAL group, in partnership with four government agencies, scheduled the "Earth Hour Bike-going beyond the hour" activity on Saturday, March 26, in Zamboanga City.

Manny Paster, an officer of the Zamboanga Adventure Tourism and Eco-Recreation Society (Zaters), said the activity aims to raise the level of awareness on biking as an alternative means of transportation toward the preservation and conservation of the environment.

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Paster described biking as not only an enjoyable activity but can also be a way of achieving fitness and wellness.

"Beyond these benefits, biking is also one effective way to lessen effect of global warming," Paster added.

He said biking is a great way to contribute to lessen air pollution, which in turn will benefit humanity and the world as a whole "if everyone could leave their cars at home just a day or two or skip using public transportation and use bike in going to work, school or offices."

He said the bikers "cue" their bike pedals 8:30 p.m. Saturday in time when Zamboanga City switches off the lights for an hour as a sign of support to Earth Hour.

The race will end at 9:30 p.m., in time for the switching-on of the lights after the hour-long Earth Hour, he added.

Paster said the activity is open to all bikers of all ages who want to contribute to the advocacy of protecting the environment and lessening effects of global warming.

He said around 100 bikers are expected to participate in the biking activity.

The bike race will start at the open grounds of the Paseo del Mar toward the city's main thoroughfares up to the vicinity of the Zamboanga International Airport and back to the Paseo del Mar, which is the newest tourist attraction in Zamnboanga City.

The activity will be held in partnership with the Department of Tourism, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Philippine Information Agency, Lacuachero outdoor shop and the Speleo Zamboanga.

Zaters and Speleo Zamboanga are multi-sectoral groups working hand-in-hand to propel adventure tourism in the city.