Laoag Diocese celebrates Earth Day

by Kara Camille L. Pedro

The Diocese of Laoag together with Government and non-government units of the Province of Ilocos Norte celebrated Earth Day, April 22.

The celebration, which aimed to promote the preservation and protection of the environment, and to awaken the awareness of people on ecological concerns, began at exactly 6:00 a.m. with an Ecowalk from the Provincial Capitol towards the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) where breakfast was served. The participants the headed back to the Provincial Capitol for the signing of the Implementing Rules and Regulation (IRR) of the Provincial Environment Code by the Honorable Michael Marcos-Keon, Governor of Ilocos Norte, together with Municipal Mayors, heads of their respective Sangguniang Bayan and representatives from the non-government sectors.

After the signing, all proceeded to the St. William Cathedral where the Most Rev. Sergio L. Utleg, DD, Bishop of Laoag, led the faithful in a Holy Mass, called the “green sacrament”. Then an ecology vigil, through prayers, songs and dances as well as film viewing, was held.

Other activities such as the exhibit of organic products, Information and Education Campaign (IEC) on Environmental Preservation and Protection and photo exhibit were also conducted.