MANILA, July 26, 2010— Environmentalists led by running priest Fr. Robert Reyes called on the Aquino administration to take immediate steps to address the climate impacts that are now affecting the country every year.

Reyes urged the government to focus on effective measures to improve the state of the environment, particularly the diminishing water supply not just in Metro Manila but also in other parts of the country.

He said that for the next six years, Aquino should provide clear environmental policies that will protect the country’s remaining natural resources including the measures that would address water shortage.

The priest, along with former Environment Secretary Bebeth Gozun, former Congressman Nereus Acosta and handful of Greenpeace volunteers, on Monday marched along Commonwealth Avenue from Quezon City Hall to Batasan Pambansa.

The activity was organized before Aquino’s first State of the Nation Address Monday afternoon not as a protest but to show support for the administration in its programs for the environment.

Reyes said they also want the government and the people to take an active role in conserving energy and water, and protect the country’s remaining natural wealth.

For its part, Greenpeace said climate change is undoubtedly the biggest challenge the Aquino administration faces today.

It said that the vulnerability of the water resources to the said phenomenon is also a reality that can no longer be ignored.

The organization is hoping the new administration will catalyze genuine climate action and protection for the country’s fresh water resources. (CBCPNews)