ILOILO CITY—The Iloilo Provincial Government is set to host “Ligum Dulom” Year 3 on March 22, 2025, at 5:00 PM, as part of its commitment to raising climate change awareness during the Earth Hour celebration across the province.
Earth Hour, a worldwide movement organized by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), encourages individuals, communities, and businesses to switch off their lights for one hour—from 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM—as a symbolic gesture for climate action.
The day’s events will kick off with a clean-up drive at the Barangay Kapitolyo vicinity and Iloilo River, in partnership with the Philippine Red Cross and other stakeholders, to also mark World Water Day.
Supervising environmentalist Mitzi Peñaflorida from the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) emphasized the importance of reducing electricity consumption as a way to combat climate change.
“This one-hour switch-off will make a significant impact by minimizing energy use and raising public awareness about climate action,” Peñaflorida said.
The lights at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol will go off at 8:30 PM, signaled by Governor Arthur Defensor, Jr. A candle lighting ceremony will follow, showcasing the province’s solidarity with the global movement.
While the lights are off, attendees can enjoy cultural entertainment, including folk music performances by Rondalla and other acts, creating an engaging and meaningful experience.
Peñaflorida revealed that several municipalities in Iloilo have committed to joining the simultaneous Earth Hour observance, underscoring the growing local support for climate initiatives.
“They are eager to participate, and their support is crucial for the success of this event,” she added.
Peñaflorida highlighted that the effects of climate change are already evident through shifts in the environment and weather patterns, largely driven by harmful human activities.
“It’s time for all of us to take action. It’s not too late to help protect our environment,” she said.
Since its inception in Sydney, Australia, in 2007, Earth Hour has grown into a global movement with over 190 participating countries, reminding everyone of the collective responsibility to safeguard the planet.
Through “Ligum Dulom” Year 3, Iloilo strengthens its stand for climate action and inspires others to take small but meaningful steps for a sustainable future. ‘Ligum Dulom’ is a Hiligaynon phrase that means ‘surrounded by darkness.’