Power shift towards 350: Climate movement kicks off in Cebu

CEBU, Philippines – In June 2013, 350.org, an international climate organization, embarked on climate leadership and activism called Global Power Shift (GPS), a two-phase global campaign on climate change.

The first phase was a gathering of 600 climate leaders and activists in Istanbul, Turkey for training, community-building, and strategizing.

The second phase is a global wave of national actions for solutions to climate change and its impacts in the different countries.

According to scientists, to sustain a livable planet, the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere must be reduced from its current level of 400 parts per million (ppm) to below 350 ppm.

Move forward

The campaign has reached the Philippines, steered by 350 Pilipinas and its partner groups.

On Thursday March 27, more than 100 youth and grassroots leaders gather in Cebu City to launch Power Shift Pilipinas (PSPH).

The activity, which aims to involve young people in efforts that address the impacts of climate change in the country, will be held at the University of San Carlos College of Architecture and Fine Arts until March 29.

Speakers and participants will particularly tackle the effects Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan), the issues on disaster preparedness, response, and recovery, and how young people can help build resilient communities. 

Organizers of PSPH said the event’s theme, Sulong (Move forward)!, envisions “a surge in the movement to claim social, environmental, and climate justice from projects and policies that have aggravated the vulnerabilities of communities to the adverse impacts of climate change.”

Delegates will participate in ‘skills track’ training sessions on digital tools, media and communication strategies, direct action and movement building, policy advocacy, and creative activism.

Island caucuses will also be convened to integrate grassroots campaigns in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. The event will culminate in a day of action with a candlelight vigil in solidarity with the Typhoon Yolanda victims. – Rappler.com