Earth Hour Pilipinas

Since its inception in 2007, Earth Hour has captured the world’s imagination by becoming a global phenomenon. Earth Hour 2010 inspired 1.3 billion people in over 4000 cities to join the 60-minute switch off. At least 18 million Filipinos in 1661 cities, towns and municipalities joined in last year’s Earth Hour – earning the country the top global spot in terms of participation – for a third year in a row.

On March 31, 2012 (Saturday), WWF is again staging Earth Hour to inspire millions of Filipinos to switch off their lights from 8:30 – 9:30PM. 2012 marks a key difference from past switch-offs, for the focus shall be on what transpires beyond the hour itself. With climate change issues becoming more critical, WWF-Philippines is going beyond Earth Hour by launching a year-long climate change information and education campaign for Filipinos to live by Earth Hour’s carbon-friendly principles not for 60-minutes – but for the rest of their lives. This year, WWF-Philippines is upping the ante. Not one – but three simultaneous WWF Earth Hour switch-off ceremonies shall be held – one each for the cities of Makati, Cebu and Davao.

This year’s Earth Hour also pushes for the promotion of the ‘I Will If You Will’ (IWIYW) campaign. The IWIYW campaign empowers individuals, groups, businesses, institutions and organizations to share a dare or challenge with the world by asking everyone “What are you willing to do to save the planet?” The campaign centralizes in forming a ‘social contract’ between two parties where one party is connected to a ‘promise’ and the other party to a ‘challenge.’ Promises can range from simple ones such as gong paperless, using less plastic and using more energy-saving appliances to very daring ones. Participants are encouraged to share their dares through social media. It encourages the spread of the spirit of environmental awareness and protection by uniting people to a common goal of saving the planet in a positive and interactive way.

Help us spread the word to again ensure that the Philippines comes out on top. Through your most crucial support, we look forward to another victorious hour.