AS THE barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections campaign period unfolds, the spotlight is on the nature of the campaign trail and the glaring importance of environmental responsibility that it underscores.
Isn’t just another reminder, but an emphasis on the pressing need for environmentally-conscious decisions at every juncture of governance, even in something as apparently inconsequential as the material choice for a campaign banner. When a candidate decides to use recyclable and eco-friendly materials, they’re not only adhering to the Commission on Elections’ (Comelec) Resolution No. 10294 s. 2018 but also sending a powerful message to the electorate about where their priorities lie.
Terms like “eco-friendly” and “sustainable” are more than buzzwords; they embody the principles that the future of our community rests upon. In urging candidates to be “environment pals” and “kaibigan ng kalikasan” (Friends of Nature), environmentalists are emphasizing that environmental advocacy should not merely be a campaign gimmick, but rather, a genuine commitment to the welfare of the community and the planet at large.
It’s alarming to think of the extent of waste that election season brings. PVC banners, plastic flags, and other non-biodegradable campaign materials litter the streets, soon to clog our waterways and add to our already burgeoning landfills. Yet, it is within the mandate of our barangays, the fundamental units of our political system, to oversee the sustainable management of these very wastes. A candidate’s approach to their own campaign materials speaks volumes about how they may approach their role in environmental management once elected.
From the establishment of Materials Recovery Facilities to the promotion of Zero Waste Management, the role of a barangay in environmental management is vast and crucial. Thus, it becomes even more imperative for the electorate to not only listen to promises but also to observe practices. The choice of recyclable campaign materials, the responsible disposal of waste post the elections, the respect for trees, and the landscapes in campaign propaganda – these might seem minor in the grand scheme of political promises, but they are significant indicators of a candidate’s authenticity in environmental stewardship.
As the election fever heats up, it’s not just about who has the loudest voice or the most charismatic persona. It’s about who stands by their words and showcases responsibility even in the small choices they make. A leader who respects the environment in their campaign is one who is likely to respect it in governance.
To the candidates, we say, let your campaign trail not just be a road to victory, but also a testament to your commitment to a brighter, greener future. And to the voters, remember: when you cast your ballot, you’re not just voting for a candidate; you’re voting for the earth. Let’s make every vote count for a sustainable tomorrow.
