MANILA, 19 June 2021 — The Climate Change Commission honors Dr. Jose Rizal’s patriotism and unequivocal dedication and commitment to serving the country in commemoration of his 160th birth anniversary today.
 
Citing historical accounts, while in exile in Dapitan, Dr. Jose Rizal contributed to the construction of the town’s first water system, the development of hills into orchards of fruit-bearing trees, the creation of livelihoods from these projects, and the draining of marshes to rid the community of malaria.
 
He also helped plan the now sprawling city in Zamboanga by carrying out various projects such as the construction of an aqueduct that provided people with clean water and the building of fish pens. He also advocated for the draining of swamps to avoid being breeding places of mosquitoes, use of coconut oil lamps to light up streets, and turning the town into a green space by planting trees. He was engaged in farming, planting trees and crops, and showing the local people how to improve their agricultural productivity through enhanced methods like irrigation.
 
As a present tribute to the national hero, the CCC urges all Filipinos to continue his work of caring for the environment by introducing innovative solutions to issues and problems of the country, especially in light of the biggest threat to humanity and development, which is climate change.
 
The CCC also encourages the youth to follow the advocacies of Dr. Rizal, not just in the aspect of protecting the rights and sovereignty of the Filipino people, but also with regard to preserving the environment, to move towards the country’s desired progress to be a truly strong, independent nation.