Environmental horrors

The National Capital Region is experiencing damage just as it was heavily inundated by a flood. Recently, an oil spill has been plaguing the waters of the region, especially Manila Bay. I was on an excursion in the previous months to a province facing the bay. They, too, are suffering from the effects of commercialization, such as reclamation, among others. Today, the oil spill is not a cause for concern to human life, but more to the environment.

I would still like to say that here in Cebu we are lucky because whenever there are torrential rains, it could subside in an hour or so. Although it is a hassle to commuters and those living in low-lying areas, the problem that we are facing now is far in magnitude from the National Capital Region. However, we must be aware that these effects trickle down even to the regions. For instance, their food supply could cause a huge demand to those in the provinces, so their needs will be met. The food chain works that way and it is indeed a domino effect.

In totality, we are facing an environmental horror, so to speak. It is not enough to explain the effects of climate change and the reality that there is no way to go about it. Experts say that the solution is not to actually fix the problem, but to mitigate and adapt to it. Key players in industrialization have been urged to pour in more funds to affected areas and to create transitions to produce a cleaner output for the environment. The government is being encouraged to set aside a big budget for disaster reduction and climate change effects control.

Actually, the recent flooding that we experienced is way better than what the capital experienced. Our rivers and waterways were widened enough for the water to pass through although it has overflowed due to the volume of rain. In reality, our steps are further than the local government units in Manila. However, our leaders should not let their guard down. There is a huge clamor for a mutual agreement between the highly urbanized cities and the national agencies to make sure flood mitigation is in place. Today is the era of accountability, not resiliency.

We do not wish for an oil spill to also happen in our region as we have rich fishing grounds. We are a primary source of marine life and seafood to other urbanized areas. On top of accountability is the responsibility of those involved in different sectors and businesses that may pose a harm to the environment. We all need to keep watch and be mindful of our rights to a clean and green type of living. They say the environment is inherently ours, so it is our duty to take care of it to protect it and to make sure that the damage done will not become any worse.