Hope for Creation: Church, civil society, and government unite for a Fossil Fuel-Free in the Philippines

In a powerful display of unity, representatives from civil society, faith-based organizations, and government agencies gathered on Friday, September 20, 2024, at the Maryhill School of Theology for "Hope for Creation: Dialogue for a Fossil Fuel-Free Future in the Philippines."

The event aimed to foster meaningful conversations on transitioning away from fossil fuels, with an emphasis on pushing for the endorsement of the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty (FFNPT).

Organized by the Laudato Si’ Movement, Caritas Philippines, Laudato Si’ Movement Pilipinas, Maryhill School of Theology, the Center for Energy, Ecology, and Development (CEED), and the Philippine-Misereor Partnerships, the dialogue was held under the Season of Creation’s theme, "To Hope and Act with Creation."

The discussions focused on urgent action against the climate crisis, stressing the importance of supporting the global treaty to phase out fossil fuels.

Bishop Gerry Alminaza, Vice Chairperson of Caritas Philippines and a leading voice in the Church’s ecological ministry, delivered the keynote address, urging for collective action toward a future free from fossil fuel dependency. “Continue the dialogue, especially with the government. There is an urgency to endorse the non-proliferation treaty,” he stressed.

Acknowledging the complexity of government decisions, he warned, “The future we have is irreversible if we do not have the strong political will to do what is necessary.” He also highlighted the importance of recognizing progress, encouraging everyone to “celebrate the wins and continue to be the hope.”

The event featured a diverse panel of experts and policymakers discussing essential steps for a sustainable energy future.

Krishna Ariola, Campaigner at CEED, presented scientific insights into the climate emergency, while Fr. Warren Puno from the Diocese of Lucena emphasized the ecological crisis’s impact on local communities.

Government representatives Mr. Albert Magalang and Mr. Arnold Belver from the Department of Environment and Climate Change Commission spoke on policy initiatives to combat climate change. Dean Tony La Viña of the Manila Observatory provided critical reactions and insights on the discussions.

Given the Philippines’ vulnerability to climate change, participants underscored the urgency of reducing fossil fuel dependency.

The dialogue called for accelerating the transition to renewable energy and promoting the adoption of the FFNPT—a global initiative that seeks to halt fossil fuel exploration and production.

Bro. John Din, a Columban Lay Missionary and National Coordinator of the Laudato Si’ Movement Pilipinas, provided an overview of the FFNPT and emphasized the need for strong political will in addressing the climate crisis.