Climate activists and urban poor residents rallied at Liwasang Bonifacio in Ermita, Manila, on Friday, Sept. 18, as part of the Global Week of Action for a Fossil-Free Future, calling for climate justice and government action to protect the environment.

The demonstrators chanted, “Hustisyang pangklima ngayon na! Ngayon na!” as they called for an end to the use of fossil fuels, which they said are harmful to the environment.

The protesters also urged the government to take action to protect the environment and hold accountable those involved in flood control projects.

Flora Santos, national president of the Oriang Women’s Movement, called on government officials from the barangay level to the presidency to improve governance and prioritize public service.

“Nananawagan po ako sa lahat-lahat ng mga nakaupo mula sa barangay hanggang sa presidente, iayos niyo naman ang pamamahala niyo. Magserbisyo naman kayo sa mamamayan,” Santos said.

“Ang pondong ginagamit niyo, ang sweldo niyo ay galing sa pawis at pagod ng mamamayan,” she added.

As of 9:45 a.m., the demonstrators had marched from Liwasang Bonifacio toward Lagusnilad and Kalaw Avenue near the U.S. Embassy.

Reports from RH Tina Nolasco