MANILA — Senator Loren Legarda urged governments, institutions, and communities to intensify environmental efforts as the country marks Earth Month this April and prepares for Earth Day on April 22.

Legarda warned that the ongoing global energy crisis—driven by volatile fuel markets, supply constraints, and geopolitical tensions—is increasing household expenses, with rising electricity and transport costs contributing to higher food and commodity prices.

“When the cost of energy rises, everything else follows, from what we eat to how we live. This is why protecting the environment is no longer separate from protecting our economy and people,” Legarda said.

She cited this year’s Earth Month theme, “Our Power, Our Planet,” as a reminder of the shared responsibility across sectors in building a sustainable future. The senator stressed that the Philippines must address rising energy costs and climate-related disasters through solutions that benefit both the environment and the economy.

“Earth Month is about more than clean energy. It is our broader responsibility to protect ecosystems, safeguard communities, and ensure resilience in the face of environmental challenges. We need a whole-of-nation response,” Legarda said.

Legarda also highlighted several environmental laws she has supported, including the Clean Air Act of 1999, the Clean Water Act of 2004, the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000, the Climate Change Act of 2009, the People’s Survival Fund Act of 2012, the National Environmental Awareness and Education Act of 2008, and the Philippine Ecosystem and Natural Capital Accounting System (PENCAS) Act, which she said continue to guide the country’s environmental policies.

“We must protect the planet that sustains us. Clean air, clean water, and a healthy environment are rights that must be safeguarded for all Filipinos. Kapag nasisira ang ating kalikasan, ang unang naaapektuhan ay ang pamilyang Pilipino,” Legarda said.

“Every effort, whether in policy or in community action, must bring us closer to a Philippines that thrives in balance with nature. The crisis we face today is also an opportunity to build a future that is safer and more sustainable,” she added.

The senator said the country’s participation in initiatives such as Earth Hour demonstrates the impact of collective action, adding that Earth Month also serves as a time to assess progress and renew commitments.

She emphasized the role of nature-based solutions, including mangrove reforestation to protect coastal communities, watershed rehabilitation to secure water supply, and urban greening to mitigate heat and improve air quality.

As the country observes Earth Month, Legarda reaffirmed her commitment to advancing policies that protect the environment, promote renewable energy, and strengthen climate resilience while ensuring communities remain central to sustainable development.