The Department of Health (DOH) on Friday, March 22, announced its participation in Earth Hour 2024, highlighting its recognition of the interconnection between health and the environment.
It said that on March 23, from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., all non-essential lights in DOH offices nationwide will be switched off, aligning with the global initiative to make this year’s Earth Hour the #BiggestHourForEarth.
Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa emphasized the vital role of a healthy environment in ensuring the well-being of every Filipino.
"Let us take care of our environment and nature. Participating in Earth Hour by turning off non-essential lights even in the comfort of our homes will bring significant benefits in achieving safe and quality health for everyone,” Herbosa said.
Moreover, the DOH highlighted that originating in 2007, Earth Hour serves as an annual reminder of the pressing issues of “global warming and climate change.”
By encouraging energy reduction and symbolically turning off lights for an hour on the last Saturday of March, it noted that individuals worldwide unite in the pursuit of a sustainable future.
DOH pledges the full cooperation of its employees to surpass last year's record, where over 410,000 hours were dedicated to the planet by supporters across 190 countries and territories.
Meanwhile, Manila City has been selected by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) – Philippines as the primary partner and venue for this year's Earth Hour event launch.
Iconic landmarks, including the City Hall Clock Tower and Rizal Monument, will participate in the symbolic switch-off, underscoring their commitment to energy conservation.
Additionally, various cities across the Philippines, such as Makati, Baguio, Catbalogan, and Zamboanga City, among others, have expressed their commitment to joining Earth Hour activities.
The DOH said that this collaborative effort signifies a unified stance towards environmental stewardship, highlighting the importance of individual and collective action in safeguarding our planet for future generations.