Environment watchdog EcoWaste Coalition has urged faithful Filipinos to mark Holy Week in a way that protects planetary and public health from pollutants and waste.

"Amid the triple planetary crisis facing humanity—biodiversity loss, climate change, and pollution—we call on the faithful to show their concern for the environment as the suffering, death, and resurrection of Lord Jesus Christ is recounted through time-honored religious events, rituals, and practices this Holy Week," the group said.

In previous years, the coalition witnessed trucks of trash due to massive littering at popular pilgrimage churches and sites. Discarded waste included plastic bags, bottles, cups, food containers, cutlery, and cigarette butts.

"Conducting our faith-inspired activities in an ecological manner will give Mother Earth a breather from wastes and pollutants afflicting her on a daily basis," the group stressed. "As stewards of God's creations, let us respect and protect the Earth, our common home, and all life on it."

In a statement on Sunday, April 13, the watchdog also stressed that the Commission on Elections prohibits national and local candidates from campaigning for midterm elections on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday.

For a trash-free Holy Week, the group called on the faithful to do the following:

• Don't litter, dump, or burn waste, especially in pilgrimage sites

• Use recycled materials for the improvised hut for the "Pabasa ng Pasyon"

• Serve food for the traditional "Caridad" in reusable containers

• Pick up litter along the path of "Via Crucis" (Way of the Cross)

• Resist releasing balloons and lighting firecrackers during the "Salubong" on Easter Sunday

• Declutter your home and offer pre-owned items to “Segunda Mana”

• Skip single-use plastic or paper for drinks and meals

"Do not throw or leave your discards on the road, churchyard, park, or the beach. If there are no segregation bins available, carry your discards with you for sorting, composting, or recycling at home," the group urged.