Politics · Philippines Bureau
Philippine priest leads week-long march demanding government action on environment
A Catholic priest and environmental activists concluded a seven-day protest march in Manila on Monday, calling for stronger government response to environmental degradation and the concerns of marginalized communities.
LSN Philippines ·
LUCENA CITY — Fr. Warren Puno, a Catholic priest from Quezon province, led a group of environmental advocates and civil society representatives on a week-long march from Atimonan to Manila, culminating Monday with calls for immediate government action on ecological and social issues.
The priest expressed frustration over what he characterized as the government's inadequate response to the grievances of environmentalists and disadvantaged communities affected by environmental degradation. "The doors remain closed to the cries of the people," Fr. Puno said, questioning whose interests the government truly serves.
The march, described as an eco-warrior movement, highlighted concerns about environmental protection and its connection to the welfare of marginalized sectors dependent on natural resources for their livelihood. Participants walked the distance to amplify their message and demonstrate the commitment of civil society to environmental advocacy.
The protest underscores ongoing tensions between environmental groups and government agencies over policy implementation and resource management in the Philippines, a nation vulnerable to climate impacts and ecological challenges affecting rural and coastal communities.