Movement for Liveable Cebu, Cabrido awarded    

Two environmental advocates in Cebu were recognized by peers for their outstanding and continuous work to protect the environment.

Lawyer Ben Cabrido and the Movement for Liveable Cebu (MLC) were given token awards of seedlings of lumboy, a native tree species.

Nov. 10 was the International Day for the Remembrance of Envrionmental Heroes and Martyrs.

Cabrido was recognized for his campaign against illegal mining in Mindanao.

He said plans are underway for a national summit next year for all anti-mining advocates.

“We will educate them with environmental principles and laws and argue with our causes of action and position. The government should preserve the biodiversity and integrity of our environment,” Cabrido said

MLC, formerly called the Stop Cebu Flyovers Movement, was credited for stopping the construction of two flyover projects in the center of Cebu City.

“We want a place for more people and not for cars. We deserve a place that is clean, with clean air. Our campaign is for those who believe. They should continue to speak up. Our challenge for them is to speak up and claim what is right,” said MLC convenor Joel Lee.

Lawyer Gloria Ramos said some parties consider it a “miracle” that the Department of Public Works and Highways suspended the flyover projects.

Cebu environmetal advocates also honored 29 environmental martyrs or those who were killed trying to stop the destruction of the environment brought by mining, oil and gas extractions.

The list includes Dr. Gerry Ortega of Palawan and Fr. Fausto Tentorio.

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