UCA News
Contribute

Green activists hold vigil for Japan

Hundreds gather to express support for those affected by ongoing nuclear crisis
Green activists hold vigil for Japan
Activists hold 1,000 paper birds and light candles to show solidarity with those enduring the nuclear disaster in Japan
Published: April 13, 2011 10:19 AM GMT
Updated: April 13, 2011 10:19 AM GMT

Environmental activists lit candles and held up over 1,000 paper birds in Metro Manila Tuesday evening to express support for people seriously affected by the nuclear tragedy in Japan. About 100 Greenpeace members and supporters held the vigil at the Monument of Heroes in the suburbs of Quezon City. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Japan. The Filipino people are no strangers to disasters and understand deeply what the Japanese are going through," said Amalie Obusan, a climate and energy campaigner for Greenpeace Southeast Asia. Japanese people already have a lot to contend with as a result of the earthquake and tsunami and "it is unfortunate that they still have to focus attention and resources on the nuclear fallout," she said. Artists and writers also joined the activities, which included an update on the situation in Fukushima prefecture where the damaged Dai-ichi nuclear plant is located. Obusan said that if a nation such as Japan has to struggle handling the effects of a fallout, "then what about a country that is more ill-prepared for disasters such as the Philippines?" She said the nuclear crisis is a man-made disaster, the impacts of which will be felt for decades. "The smartest move for our country and governments around the world is to redouble their efforts to harness safe and secure renewable energy sources and invest in energy efficiency technologies." Related reports Fukushima’s Christian heroes risk allLiving in the shadow of Fukushima Daiichi PM13959.1649

Help UCA News to be independent
Dear reader,
Lent is the season during which catechumens make their final preparations to be welcomed into the Church.
Each year during Lent, UCA News presents the stories of people who will join the Church in proclaiming that Jesus Christ is their Lord. The stories of how women and men who will be baptized came to believe in Christ are inspirations for all of us as we prepare to celebrate the Church's chief feast.
Help us with your donations to bring such stories of faith that make a difference in the Church and society.
A small contribution of US$5 will support us continue our mission…
William J. Grimm
Publisher
UCA News
Asian Bishops
Latest News
UCA News Catholic Dioceses in Asia
UCA News Catholic Dioceses in Asia
UCA News Catholic Dioceses in Asia