About 30 personnel from the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) flocked to SM Mall of Asia Grounds in Pasay City, early morning on April 30, 2016 to show that they care for Mother Earth by joining the "Protect, Respect and Oversee (PRO) the Planet Earth Run." PRO Earth Run was organized by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, in partnership with SM and United Parcel Service (UPS), and consisted of 1k, 3k and 10k runs.
PRO Earth Run, now on its third year, is DENR, SM and UPS's continued response to the call of Earth Day Network Philippines Incorporated (EDNPI) to promote events that would encourage actions to protect the Earth from abuse and to preserve it for future generations. The EDNPI, the local counterpart of Earth Day Network International, has been the prime mover in the Philippines for the meaningful observance of Earth Day every 22nd of April and other environmental programs.
The amount raised through the registration fees and purchase of race kits serves as contribution to the funds for the environmental programs of EDNPI. The core advocacies advanced by EDNPO are climate change mitigation, water stewardship, solid waste management and reforestation. Current projects include reforestation where indigenous trees are planted and seedlings are propagated, the installation of ram pumps in the country's remote areas to provide accessible and safe water, a campaign towards a zero-waste Philippines through proper waste segregation and educating and training the academic community and the youth, on climate change mitigation.
Other initiatives of the EDPNI include a recycling project to turn tarpaulins into useful products and the use of local cacao beans for the production of gourmet chocolates as a way of promoting sustainable farming, fair trade, and patronizing the organic food industry.
Being part of the DENR, the MGB officials and personnel find greater meaning in their participation in the PRO Earth Run as it shows the strong unity among the personnel of the primary national government agency responsible for the protection and enhancement of the environment to ensure a healthy world to live in.
By: Administrative Division
PRO Earth Run 2016 participants from the MGB