Residents of this city are urged to join millions around the world for Earth Hour, a yearly global environmental campaign that encourages individuals, businesses, and governments to switch off their lights for an hour.

“Let’s come together to protect our planet. On March 22, 2025 (Saturday), from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., we encourage everyone to switch off non-essential lights and take a stand for a sustainable future,” Mylene Isabel Pascual, head of the Laoag City Environment and Natural Resources Office, said in a statement on Wednesday.

Pascual said Laoag has been supporting Earth Hour for many years.

She added that for this year, other local government units, commercial establishments and households in Ilocos Norte have signified their intention to support Earth Hour.

“Every small action can lead to a more sustainable future, either by switching off the lights, reducing waste, or choosing eco-friendly habits,” Jen Custorio, an environment advocate from Piddig, Ilocos Norte, said.

Custorio said she plans to stay home on Saturday and make a simple sacrifice of not watching television and unplugging the electric fan as her participation to Earth Hour.

She expressed hope that through Earth hour, the rest of the world will be inspired to continue addressing climate change and other environment issues.

Earth Hour, which started in Sydney, Australia in 2007 and became a global campaign the following year, aims to raise awareness about climate change and energy saving. (PNA)