In celebration of the World Wetlands Day, (February 2), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources- National Capital Region (DENR-NCR) partnered with Philippine Information Agency (PIA-NCR) for a roadshow presentation in the different local government units (LGUs) in the National Capital Region (NCR) to teach school children the importance of wetlands and at the same time promote its conservation.
The joint teams were able to visit the following schools: Nazirite Christian Academy in Malabon City, Baclaran Elementary School in Parañaque City, Padre Zamora Elementary School in Pasay City, and Navotas Central Elementary School.
In each school, selected pupils from different public schools in the LGU visited were invited. DENR gave lecture on the forms of wetlands, its values, the different threats it face and ways by which an ordinary school child can help in its conservation
After the lecture and treats from DENR, the PIA Puppet Theatre Group performed “Inang Kalikasan” – a puppet theatre presentation on climate change which showed the importance of the role of each individual, even children in mitigating the effects brought by climate change.
The highlight of each road show presentation is the commitment signing by students and teachers to keep the wetlands healthy.
“Wetlands are areas where land and water meet. They have an important role as they serve as flood reducers, water banks, earth kidneys, and nurseries. They are also sources of food, medicine, construction materials and other raw materials for various industrial products. That’s why intensive promotion on its wise use and protection from degradation is being conducted by DENR,” explained DENR-NCR chief Forester Heidee Pabalate.
World Wetlands Day is celebrated internationally each year on 2 February as it marks the anniversary of the signing of the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar Convention) held in Ramsar, Iran, on 2 February 1971.
The international theme for World Wetlands Day 2015 is Wetlands for Our Future.
PIA
