To MEND and Defend: Mauban Unites for Sustainable Development, Climate Justice

Quezon City, Philippines – A powerful alliance was formed last August 4, 2024, as the Philippine Movement for Climate Justice (PMCJ) united organizations and concerned individuals in Mauban, Quezon, to tackle the ongoing climate crisis head-on. The Mauban for Environment and Development (MEND) held a pivotal general assembly, setting a clear course for preserving Mauban’s rich legacy, and safeguarding its environmental integrity.

MEND’s founding organizations are: Heritage Houses, Unahin Natin Lagi ang Damayan at Pagkakaisa Para sa Maubanin (UNLAD), Marginal Fisherfolks of Daungan (Fisher Folks Alliance), Kapit-Bisig (Labor Group residing on Pantalan Port), Ang Saliwsiw, Yes-O (MSEMSAT), KAYA NATIN! Youth-Mauban (Youth Sector), SSLG Pastrana, SSLG, MSEMSAT, The Ridge, Kabataan Partylist Quezon, Brgy. Luya-Luya, and Mauban MENRO.

“There is a need to organize a multi-sectoral network/alliance that will advocate for environmental protection and climate justice, with a vision and mission of advancing our communities towards sustainable development,” PMCJ Luzon Coordinator Erwin Puhawan said.

Like other cities and municipalities, Mauban faces severe impacts from climate change. "The recent Aghon typhoon is a grim reminder of the reality of climate emergency. The flooding and landslides caused by these typhoons have devastated homes and livelihoods, necessitating immediate and sustained action," MEND Convenor Cedrick Mariano said.

MEND’s core values are inclusivity and solidarity, respect for human rights and rights of nature; advocate for climate justice, social and sustainable development; watchdog for good governance; environmental defenders and climate justice advocates; and promote people empowerment and people-centered development.

MEND Co-Founder Chit Dy Tan highlighted the urgency of organizing such assemblies and discussions. “Wala na tayong panahon para sabihing, ‘Saka na’. Wala na tayong panahon para tanungin kung ‘bakit’ at ‘kailan’. Kailangan na nating kumilos ngayon. Nariyan ang kabataan na nag-oorganisa [...] kaya dapat tayong sumuporta sa kanila.” [We don’t have time to say, ‘Let’s just do it tomorrow.’. We don’t have time to ask ‘why’ and ‘when’. We have to do it now. The youth are pushing for the organization, so we must support], Ms. Tan said.

Yesterday, August 5, 2024, convenors of the MEND had a consultative meeting with Mauban Municipal Councilor Ken Llamas. He reaffirmed his support for the ongoing fight for climate justice and the transition to renewable energy. Hon. Llamas opened the possibilities of partnerships with PMCJ and other concerned groups, aiming to push for promoting policies in protecting the environment.

“As the climate crisis continues to devastate communities, it is imperative to campaign for climate emergency not just by different climate movements but with local governments leading climate actions and solutions. LGUs have a significant role in mobilizing its constituents, and realizing knowledge and experiences of its residents, who are the primary ones affected by the climate crisis,” PMCJ National Coordinator Ian Rivera said.