Former senator and senatorial candidate Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan urged for urgent action to protect the environment in Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, warning that environmental degradation threatens the country’s food security and economic future.

“The environment has no political color, and neither does hunger,” Pangilinan said in Filipino. “If we save the environment, we ensure a steady food supply. We must act now to preserve our marine resources — everyone is affected, and everyone has a responsibility.”

Pangilinan raised concerns over reports of illegal fishing, pollution, and deforestation affecting coastal and farming communities in Negros Oriental. He warned that these issues could drive up food prices and worsen poverty among fisherfolk and farmers.

“If our seas are destroyed, our fishers lose their catch. If our farmlands are damaged, food prices will rise,” he said. “We must protect our natural resources not only for today but for future generations.”

Pangilinan said he would advocate for stricter environmental laws, increased funding for marine protection, and eco-friendly livelihood programs. He emphasized the need to balance development with conservation to protect both livelihoods and ecosystems.

As the principal author of the Sagip Saka Act, Pangilinan also stressed the need for sustainable agriculture and fisheries programs that provide fair income for local producers while keeping food affordable. He said laws should shield small-scale farmers and fisherfolk from exploitation and environmental harm.

He also pushed for more government support for organic farming and sustainable fishing, including encouraging local government units to buy directly from farmers and fisherfolk under the Sagip Saka Act.

“In other provinces, we’ve seen how direct procurement by LGUs helps our farmers and fishers earn more fairly. We should strengthen this system instead of letting big businesses dominate the supply chain,” he said.

Pangilinan said that his campaign remains centered on fighting hunger and environmental destruction, which he described as a shared struggle that all Filipinos must take part in.

Kiko urges Earth Hour observance

Pangilinan also called on Filipinos to take part in Earth Hour 2025 by not only by turning off their lights for one hour — between 8:30 and 9:30 PM on Saturday — but by making daily choices that help protect the environment.

“It’s in the little things we do every day — reducing waste, conserving water, choosing sustainable products, and supporting efforts to protect our oceans and forests,” he said.

A long-time advocate for organic farming and environmental protection, Pangilinan said the country faces increasing threats from climate change, and both individual and collective action are necessary.

“As a nation, we should also work to establish and promote policies and laws that help us care for the planet as responsible citizens,” he added.

During his time in the Senate, Pangilinan authored pro-environment measures such as the National Land Use Act and the Rainwater Management Act. Though these bills have yet to become law, he said he would continue to push for their passage if elected.

“We only have one planet. We need to act together to address the floods, typhoons, drought, and extreme heat we’re experiencing today,” Pangilinan said. “Every hour we express our love for the planet is a step toward securing the future of our children and the generations to come."