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Friday, March 29, 2024

La Union locals walk barefoot in protest against fossil fuels

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Local groups in La Union came together July 13 to join the growing number of communities around the world calling the #breakfree from fossil fuels. 

Break Free is a global movement made up of NGOs, grassroots groups, and ordinary people working together to promote the use of safer, cleaner, and renewable energy.

Led by the Koalisyon Isalbar Ti Pintas Ti La Union (Coalition to Save the Beauty of La Union) and the Coal-Free La Union, and joined by Greenpeace Philippines, the groups that marched barefoot along the main highway from UCCP Walkway to San Fernando Town Plaza were composed of seaside communities, surfing instructors and enthusiasts, divers, government employees, tourism agents, resort owners, educators, church officials, and NGO workers. 

The groups are opposing a proposal to put up a 670-megawatt coal-fired power plant in the town of Luna. The proposal threatens not only the environmental stability of the province but also the health and livelihoods of the communities that rely on the province’s burgeoning tourism industry.

“We need to preserve the natural beauty and health of La Union. Our beaches, way of life, and our environment drive our livelihoods and our identity,” said Cris Palabay, chairperson of Koalisyon Isalbar Ti Pintas Ti La Union.

Protesters march barefoot to dramatize the need for people to connect and feel what is happening to La Union.

He added, “The proposed coal plant will not enhance our lives but it will instead make it more difficult. We don’t want a coal plant constructed in our home.”

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The proposed plant of the Global Luzon Energy Development Corporation is scheduled to be operational by 2020. But locals are urging provincial officials to sack the proposal and look to more sustainable, cost-effective options instead.

“There is little to no benefit from coal and everyone in La Union will be affected by it. The proposed coal plant will only threaten the environment, the people’s health, and even their local economy,” declared Khevin Yu, climate and energy campaigner of Greenpeace Philippines.

Yu continued, “La Union should consider the least cost option for energy generation and focus on harnessing cleaner and renewable energy.”

Locals and tourists in La Union march in protest against the proposed coal-fire power plant in the town of Luna.

Greenpeace points out cost implications of new coal proposals as opposed to renewables. Last year, a solar project between Solar Philippines and Meralco cost only P2.99 per kw/hr, considered as one of the cheapest rates in the Philippines. Health research also indicates costs to lives. According to a study by the Harvard University Atmospheric Chemistry Modeling Group, about 2,400 Filipinos will die from coal-related pollution every year.

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