By Jocelyn P. Alvarez
ZAMBOANGA CITY - The city participated in the worldwide observance of “Earth Hour” held Saturday night where people from various walks of life came to show their concern and willingness to do their share in the fight against global warming.
City Caretaker and Vice Mayor Cesar Iturralde led the multi-sectoral groups in the observance of Earth Hour 2014, at the Paseo del Mar ground simultaneous with the over 7,000 cities and provinces all over the world.
City Information Officer Sheila Covarrubias said “representatives from the local and national government agencies, the education sector, police, including religious groups, cooperatives and non-government organizations trooped to Paseo del Mar Saturday night to take part in the Earth Hour, locally known as “Ora de Planeta” to show commitment to the global campaign to reduce global warming impact. “
Vice Mayor Iturralde during the earth hour program called on everyone “to make a commitment to Mother Nature, one that will go beyond the 60 minutes of Earth Hour 2014. “
“As individuals, we can contribute in the global movement to fight for our future and our children’s future,” he stressed.
He said Earth Hour is not just merely switching off lights but a sincere commitment to be aware and more conscious of the choices and decisions that people make.
The Earth Hour activity was made meaningful when participants made a human formation of the “60+” logo as soon as the lights were shut off at 8:30p.m.
Covarrubias informed that Earth Hour originated in Sydney Australia in 2007 and Zamboanga City started joining the advocacy in 2008. She said Earth Hour is a global event which is a call to action related to energy efficiency, conservation and to address climate change.