WE MOURN the passing of one of the staunchest environment and children’s advocates, Ms. Gina Lopez. She is a big loss to all of us. We will continue to be inspired by her strong voice to stop mounting threats to the world’s center of marine biodiversity and to mainstream sustainability choices and livelihoods. In her rather short stint in government service, she proved that with political will and deep love for our planet and people, our long languishing environmental laws and policies can be implemented. She made civil society sector a genuine partner in governance and we are deeply grateful for that.

We extend to her family and loved ones our sincerest condolences and healing.