Eco-friendly Holy Week pushed

As the Month of Planet Earth is observed in accordance with Presidential Proclamation No. 1482, the EcoWaste Coalition has called on Filipinos to observe Holy Week in ways that protect public health and the environment from waste and pollution.

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The advocacy group, which promotes a zero waste and toxics-free society, urged for an ecological observance of Holy Week. This call came as believers carrying palaspas (palm fronds) gathered in churches on Palm Sunday to commemorate the entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem.

The coalition encouraged the faithful to express their concern for the environment while reflecting on “the suffering, death and resurrection of Lord Jesus Christ” through traditional religious events, rituals, and practices this Holy Week.

Amid the ongoing midterm election campaign, the group reminded national and local candidates that campaigning is prohibited by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday.

The group also appealed to candidates not to post campaign materials on trees, light posts, or utility poles, especially along pilgrimage routes. Additionally, it asked politicians to avoid displaying “Happy Easter” banners, saying these would only add to the growing pile of campaign-related waste.