MANILA, Philippines - Ecological Society of the Philippines (ESP) president Antonio M. Claparols said Filipinos must learn the lessons of typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng.
“Ondoy and Pepeng caught us by surprise but environmentalists have warned us on catastrophies like these for years,” said Claparols. “I think now is the time to listen.”
A few weeks ago, Ondoy brought a heavy mud flood that turned most of Metro Manila, Rizal and nearby provinces into virtual water worlds. A week later, Pepeng caused flashfloods and landslides in Central and Northern Luzon.
“Many lives have been lost, many are still missing and until today, some places are still submerged in water,” Claparols added. “Everyone was affected and everyone has their own stories to tell. Yet, the bayanihan spirit of the Filipinos prevails. A lot of people wanted to reach out their hands to the victims. A lot of people had cared.”
Claparols, however, warned Ondoy and Pepeng will not be the last typhoons to hit the country.
“It will be worse next time if we don’t change our ways,” warned Claparols. “The effects of climate change is real and it will haunt us and our children’s children for many years.”
For a start, Claparols suggests the government to impose total log ban, protect the country’s remaining rainforests and embark on a massive reforestation program.
“For us to combat global warming, we must first protect ourselves by preserving our trees, protecting our natural resources and learning from our mistakes,” he said. “This must be our priority. We can no longer ignore the signs. We must stop polluting the environment.”
Claparols also said people on all levels must have environmental education. Filipinos must learn the value of recycling, segregation and the reduction of greenhouse gas emission.