Situated in the majestic compass of the Cordillera Central, Baguio City has long held the title “Summer Capital of the Philippines.” Its sensational landscapes and refreshing climate have captivated countless visitors seeking relief and relaxation from the scorching temperatures of the lowlands.
As the wheels of progress turn and rapid development creeps closer to Baguio's once-pristine wonders, urbanization and population growth have put the city’s breathtaking landscapes and ecosystems in jeopardy.
In response, activists, as well as various organizations and community groups, have joined forces in addressing issues and fighting for our planet. It is through environmental activism that they try to strike a balance between urban development and nature preservation.
From a champion’s lens
Environmental activism in Baguio City has emerged as a powerful force in recent years, propelled by the burning passion and resolute dedication of its residents and various concerned organizations.
Asked about the current state of environmental activism in the city, the University of the Philippines Baguio’s (UPB) outgoing environmental desk councilor Mar Clarence Quinto said that there was an increased participation in furthering environmental campaigns in Baguio and Cordillera.
“In terms of green activism, we have been seeing that more people are taking the initiative to be part of our campaigns,” Quinto said in an interview via Messenger on June 4. “Programs are also being launched by the city itself.”
Some of these city-led initiatives include the establishment of Baguio as a smoke-free city, the conduct of Baguio blue walk project, the improvement of waste disposal through its clean and green program, and the launch of the city’s first-ever climate change summit on Feb. 9.
Despite the increasing participation and support for environmental campaigns in the city, the road to progress for green activists remains fraught with challenges. Quinto, known for his vehement efforts to forward environmental calls, emphasized that while more individuals are joining the fight for a greener future, the terrors faced by these activists cannot be ignored.
“Yet, this does not remove the fact that green activists still face serious security threats since red-tagging and unlawful surveillance is still rampant in our society these days,” he lamented.
Alongside the forerunners
“One of our primary campaigns is to defend the defenders,” said Quinto.
“Defend the defenders” is a vital call to action that reminds the public and authorities of their part in safeguarding activists, local groups and concerned citizens. These individuals put their efforts at the forefront of their struggle for the issues they believe.
According to a 2022 report by Global Witness, a renowned international non-profit organization, the Philippines has “consistently ranked as the worst place in Asia for land and environmental defenders.” The report reveals that between 2012 to 2021, a staggering number of 270 defenders lost their lives in the pursuit of protecting their land and the environment.
Along with this disheartening data, Quinto strongly holds the belief that defending our defenders is crucial since we need to stand for these vanguards heeding our calls.
Heeding environmental calls
In a world grappling with pressing environmental challenges, a growing movement of activists and concerned citizens is rallying together to champion pro-people and pro-environment modernization.
“Other calls are fighting for pro-people and pro-environment modernization, stopping the construction of destructive hydropower projects, and calling the large companies and even the government responsible for the destruction they have done to the environment,” said Quinto.
By highlighting the interconnectedness of environmental and societal issues, Quinto underscores the importance of a holistic approach to tackle the challenges at hand.
“Education is also one of the focuses of our calls to inform more people about the pertinent environmental issues and situations and let them take part in our campaigns,” he added.
Recognizing education’s power in creating lasting change, Quinto’s call emphasizes the need to inform and engage a wider audience. By raising awareness of relevant nature-centered issues and phenomena, more people are expected to become involved in environmental preservation, making a significant impact on local and global scales.
The environmental activism in Baguio City serves as a testament to the invincible spirit of its people who fearlessly strive to preserve the beauty of their city in the face of urbanization and, consequently, be of service to Mother Earth.
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