The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) joined the Global Climate Strike on September 20, 2024, alongside climate activists and student groups. The event, themed “End the Era of Fossil Fuels,” called for urgent action to phase out fossil fuels and transition to renewable energy sources.
Organized by 350 Pilipinas, Youth Advocates for Climate Action Philippines, Agham Youth-PUP, the university administration, and the Office of the Student Regent, the strike marked the culmination of PUP’s Climate Week, held from September 16 to 20.
Participants unfurled a giant banner reading “Fund Our Future, Go Fossil Free,” emphasizing the need to shift financial resources away from fossil fuels and towards community-owned renewable energy projects. The event also featured a climate march and performances by local artists.
Fread De Mesa, Regional Campaigner for 350.org Asia, stressed the importance of clean and transparent energy transition financing led by communities. He emphasized the need to move away from unsustainable solutions like dams, nuclear power, and waste-to-energy plants, advocating instead for grants and not loans to support the shift to decentralized renewable energy.
Climate activists highlighted the urgency of climate action, particularly for the Philippines, a country vulnerable to the effects of climate change. They called for world leaders, governments, and financial institutions to take responsibility for their actions and promote solutions like sustainable transportation and community-owned renewable energy projects.
“Climate justice isn’t just a buzzword,” stated Jawo Jayme, Campus Organizer from 350 Pilipinas. “This is our moment to turn the crisis into a call for action, resistance, and a sustainable future for all.”
University officials also emphasized the crucial role of universities in combating climate change. Jim Fernando, Director of the Office of Student Services, acknowledged the importance of universities in reducing carbon emissions and building community resilience. He stressed the need for partnerships between university leaders, faculty, and students to create vibrant communities powered by renewable energy.
Kim Modelo, PUP Student Regent, highlighted the disproportionate impact of climate change on marginalized communities in the Philippines. Stressing the need for inclusive solutions and empowered communities, Modelo stated, “Climate justice demands that we dismantle disparities and amplify the voices of marginalized communities.”
The Global Climate Strike is a global movement led by various groups including Indigenous people, youth activists, civil society organizations, and others. It calls for an end to the fossil fuel era and a transition to a just and sustainable future.