In celebration of Earth Day 2025, the Quezon City government has launched initiatives to combat textile pollution and reduce plastic use, alongside community engagements promoting sustainability efforts.
Led by the Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability Department (CCESD), the celebration began with “Car-free, Carefree Sunday” on April 20, where families participated in the Easter Zumba, Easter Egg Word Hunt featuring the city’s environmental programs, and received free fruit-bearing tree saplings to promote urban greening.
In partnership with the Quezon City Public Library and the Kabahagi Center for Children with Disabilities, the department held a puppet show adaptation of the climate action story “Ako na Mauuna” for children with disabilities on April 22.
One of the highlights of the week was RetaShow: QC’s Catwalk to Sustainability – Kidswear Edition, held on April 23. The unique fashion competition placed children on center stage as they modeled garments crafted from upcycled materials, showcasing creativity in sustainability and sending a strong message on the value of reuse.
"Not everyone realizes that we have long been fighting textile pollution caused by fast fashion. Reusing and repurposing old clothes—or ‘pinaglumaan’—has always been part of our Filipino culture. Now more than ever, we must revive and promote this practice, especially among the youth," Mayor Joy Belmonte said.
On Friday, April 25, RePorma: QC Hall Employees Clothes Swapping Event will take place, encouraging government employees to donate, swap, and upcycle clothing instead of discarding them.
The city government also began enforcing its ban on single-use plastics and disposable materials across all city hall premises and facilities, which started last Monday, April 21.
"We cannot confront the climate crisis alone. With the support and participation of every stakeholder, from the private institutions to our residents, we can collectively achieve an inclusive climate action for communities, strengthening our commitment towards our Zero Carbon by 2050 goal," Belmonte said.