We often complain about the things we don’t have yet we take for granted the things we have plenty of. There’s no doubt that the Philippines is blessed with natural resources that other countries can only dream of. The Philippines has four sites vying for a spot in the New Seven Wonders of Nature, namely, Tubbataha Reefs, Puerto Princesa Subterranean River Park, Chocolate Hills and Mayon Volcano.
With more than 7,107 islands, the Philippines is the world’s second largest archipelago next to Indonesia. The country is likewise one of the biologically richest countries in the world. There are many species of plants and animals that can only be found in the Philippines. However, these resources are fast disappearing. With only 7% of our original forest still remaining today, the country is one of the world’s most endangered areas. Conservation International has put us in the list of Biodiversity Hotspots. The many landslides and flash floods in previous years which had claimed hundreds of lives are results of the environmental degradation that the country is facing. Human activities brought these catastrophes to our country then human intervention can likewise reverse its results.
If you find our natural landscape beautiful today, imagine how beautiful they were a hundred years ago! The government has a big role in conserving and preserving the environment but it also needs the help of everybody. Take the case of Palawan, where the local government has the political will to implement the law in environmental protection and has the cooperation of the residents. There’s a balance between development and environmental preservation.
As a regular citizen, what can you do to help preserve our natural resources?
Well, if Ms. Earth candidates have an answer for this sort of question, so do I. First, practice green living at home. That is, practice Reuse, Recycle, and Reduce waste. Second, start planting trees. We cannot stop illegal loggers by ourselves but we can plant a tree. Hey, little things add up you know.
Also, be vigilant. Know what’s happening around you and let the authorities know of illegal activities concerning the environment. Finally, be an environment advocate. You need not march on the street. Instead, convince the people in your circle of influence to take care of our environment and help conserve and preserve our natural resources. We cannot undone the damage of decades of neglect but it’s not yet too late. We who have chosen to stay and live in this country should do our best to keep it livable for the generations to come.
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very well said. pasok ka na sa final three… hehehe
kwans last blog post..tigbauan idol
i don’t feel any pressure right now. uh ah…hahaha!
this is a good news!
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