Perez enacts fossil fuel free ordinance

By Jay S. Lim Fr. Warren Puno (QUEEN), Jay Lim of Tanggol Kalisakan, Councilor Andrea Olase, Valentino De Guzman (CEEDS), and Board Member I...

By Jay S. Lim

Fr. Warren Puno (QUEEN), Jay Lim of Tanggol Kalisakan, Councilor Andrea Olase, Valentino De Guzman (CEEDS), and Board Member Ireneo Boonggaling, along with other key figures, celebrate Perez's declaration as a 'Fossil Free Municipality,' a victory for renewable energy and a sustainable future. (Fr. Warren Puno)

PEREZ, Quezon – This town officially joined the ranks of 'Fossil Free Municipalities' on March 3, 2025, with unanimous approval from the Sangguniang Panglalawigan Committee on Energy. Driven by a commitment to environmental sustainability, the municipality's decision is expected to spur further adoption of renewable energy sources.

The pioneering spirit of Tagkawayan, whose environmental leadership ignited a wave of change in Perez. With Councilor Andrea Villabroza-Olase at the helm, the groundbreaking ordinance sailed through the Committee on Energy, thanks to the affirmative motion of Board Member Ireneo Boonggaling and the leadership of Board Member Derick Magbuhos.



The atmosphere in Perez was electric, a palpable sense of victory filling the air. Years of tireless advocacy for clean air and a healthy environment had finally paid off. This declaration wasn't just a policy change; it was a powerful statement, a commitment to a future powered by renewable energy.

"This is a resounding triumph!" a resident, visibly moved, shouted, their voice filled with a palpable sense of pride that echoed through the gathered crowd. "For years, we've fought, we've petitioned, we've raised our voices. And today, we see the fruits of our labor! This isn't just a win for Perez, it's a win for every community that dares to dream of a cleaner, healthier future.

"We've shown that when communities unite, when we stand together with a shared purpose, when we refuse to be silenced, we can create lasting change! We've shown that ordinary people, united by a common goal, can make the extraordinary happen. We've proven that we have the power to shape our own destiny, to protect our environment, and to leave a legacy of sustainability for generations to come. This victory belongs to all of us!"

Councilor Andrea Olase, the driving force behind this historic moment, was hailed as a champion of environmental stewardship. Valentino De Guzman, Program Head of the Center for Ecology and Environment (CEEDS), praised her unwavering dedication, calling the ordinance "a testament to her commitment to safeguarding our future." Councilor Olase, in turn, expressed her hope that Perez would serve as a "beacon," inspiring other municipalities to follow suit.

The impact of Perez's bold decision reverberates far beyond its borders. It sends a clear, unequivocal message to neighboring towns grappling with the threat of fossil fuel projects, particularly Atimonan, where a proposed Coal-Fired Power Plant has ignited fierce opposition.

"Perez has proven that a fossil-free future is not just a dream, it's a reality!" declared Fr. Warren Puno, spokesperson for Quezon for Environment (QUEEN). "We urge Atimonan and every municipality to prioritize clean energy and reject projects that threaten our planet."

Perez's declaration is a powerful testament to the power of local action in the face of global climate change. It's a resounding "yes" to clean air, a "no" to coal, and a resounding call for a sustainable future. The residents of Perez have not only made history, they've set a powerful example for communities across the Philippines and beyond.