MANILA, Nov. 17, 2011— At a time when the impact of climate change remains a major concern, Catholic bishops are calling for a renewed commitment towards the environment.
In a radio interview, Cagayan de Oro Archbishop Antonio Ledesma stressed the central role of people in the conservation, sustainable management and development of the country’s forests.
“We need to renew our commitment in protecting our environment because this is the basis for building peace,” Ledesma told church-run Radyo Veritas.
“This is all our responsibility so more intense participation is needed in fighting climate change, not just more on mitigation,” he added.
The former vice president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines made the statement ahead of next week’s observance of the Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness Week.
Puerto Princesa Bishop Pedro Arigo, for his part, lamented the government’s continued promotion of mining in the country.
“The government is really after its economic benefits at the expense of the people,” he said.
He also called on the government to reject all mining applications within the vicinities of Palawan’s underground river which was recently named as among the world’s new seven wonders of nature.
“Mining would ultimately destroy the beauty of the said tourist spot,” Arigo said. [CBCPNews]
