The Mindanao Sakay-Lakad-Layag or SaLakYag 2023, a significant environmental event, kicked off on 2 October 2023. Organized by the Mindanao clusters of Philippine Misereor Partnership, Inc., namely the ZAMBASULI (Zamboanga, Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-tawi), DOPIM (Dipolog, Ozamis, Pagadian, Iligan, Marawi), DRC (Davao Region Cluster), CABUSTAM (Cagayan, Butuan, Surigao, Tandag, Malaybalay), KIDMACO (Kidapawan, Marbel, Cotabato) clusters this event seeks to raise awareness about environmental degradation, food and human security, and the urgent implications of climate change.
The ZAMBASULI leg of SaLakYag 2023 commenced at the Our Lady of Lourdes in the town of Kabasalan in Zamboanga Sibugay. The event kicked off with a discussion on the current state of the environment, followed by presentations on the Laudato Si and the Rights of Nature. The highlight of the gathering was the pledge of commitment from participants to protect, respect, and fulfill the rights of both humans and nature.
Following the launch in Ipil, the SaLakYag team will travel to Dipolog and Pagadian for the subsequent legs of their journey. The DRC, DOPIM, and CABUSTAM clusters were set to begin their SaLakYag journey on 3 October 2023.
“We are excited to see the Mindanao community coming together to address the critical environmental issues of our time. We hope this can amplify the call for a Declaration of Climate Emergency and the Passage of the Rights of Nature (RoN) Bill,” said Ms. Yolanda Esguerra, National Coordinator of Philippine Misereor Partnership, Inc. (PMPI).
“SaLakYag 2023 is a testament to our shared commitment to environmental stewardship and the well-being of our communities. We invite everyone to stay tuned for more updates and to join us in creating a sustainable and resilient future for Mindanao.”
The SaLakYag 2023 activities will take place simultaneously in various locations across Mindanao and will culminate in an Environmental Summit to be held in General Santos City on 5 October 2023. This initiative aims to unite communities and individuals in a collective effort to address pressing environmental and climate-related issues.
