RP among top 5 in volunteer work vs climate change

MANILA, Philippines—The country registered more than one million hours of effort to tackle climate change and other environmental issues, the United Nations office here said.

The top five countries are India, which registered 53,917 hours, followed by Pakistan, 40,710, Nigeria, 31,647, Kenya, 32,277, and Philippines, 26,112.

The others on the top 10 are: Ethiopia, 19,165, United States, 17,157, Nepal, 16,742, Cameroon, 14,317, and Democratic Republic of Congo, 13,361.

As part of its campaign to promote International Volunteer (IV) Day celebrated on December 5, the UN Volunteers (UNV) program launched the global campaign “Volunteering for our Planet” to promote voluntary effort for the environment. Here, activities included cleanup of Marikina River and Manila Bay. Simultaneous environmental awareness and cleanup activities were also held in Naga City, Siquijor, Dumaguete City, Baguio City and Tacloban.

“The decisions and actions of individuals may seem insignificant in the face of global challenges. But when people choose to devote their time and energy they can, together, make a difference,” UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said in his message.

“Volunteerism is a source of community strength, resilience, solidarity and social cohesion. It can bring positive social change by fostering respect for diversity, equality and the participation of all. It is among society’s most vital assets,” he added.

The UN chief also thanked all volunteers worldwide who contribute their time to environmental protection, peace and development.

“In particular, I salute the 8,000 United Nations Volunteers who support the work of the United Nations. In doing so, I would like to pay tribute to the two UNV volunteers who were killed in Afghanistan in October, and all those who have lost their lives volunteering for the United Nations. Their service and dedication to the United Nations will not be forgotten,” he said.

The IV Day is a collaborative effort of foreign and local volunteers: United Nations Volunteers, Australian Youth Ambassadors for Development, Volunteering for International Development from Australia, United States Peace Corps, Korea International Cooperation Agency, Korea Overseas Volunteers, Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers and VSO-Bahaginan.

It is supported by volunteer- and environment-focused government agencies and cities: Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency, Department of Natural Environment and Resources, the city government of Marikina, Globe, and Pfizer.

The UNV is the UN organization that promotes volunteerism to support peace and development worldwide.

IV Day was adopted by the UN General on 17 December 1985. Now on its 24th year, governments, the UN system and civil society organizations have successfully joined volunteers around the world in tribute to the thriving volunteer spirit. Learn more at their website. –Veronica Uy, Philippine Daily Inquirer