Wazzup Pilipinas!?
A Powerful Call for Unity at the GPP Red-Green Consultation in Cebu
On July 6, 2025, atop the tranquil hills of Mt. Manunggal in Barangay Sunog, Balamban, Cebu, a movement ignited with the fire of purpose and the urgency of our times. Under the theme "Visayas Rising: Empowering Local Leaders for Environmental Action," the Red-Green Multi-Party Partnership took a bold step forward in uniting forces for climate justice, inclusive development, and political cooperation.
Organized by the Akbayan Partylist and the Green Party of the Philippines (GPP), the Visayas Local Consultation was more than just a gathering—it was a manifestation of the Filipino people's growing resolve to reclaim the future from the forces of environmental destruction and political apathy.
A Coalition Forged in Crisis
The Red-Green Multi-Party Partnership, a groundbreaking alliance among political parties and civic organizations, seeks to chart a new course: one of inclusive green transition and ecological integrity grounded in social justice. As climate disasters become more frequent and inequality more severe, the need for a shared political agenda has never been more critical.
This series of local consultations—Visayas being a key front—will serve as the foundation for a historic National Red-Green Consultation Workshop, where grassroots insights will shape a unified environmental platform.
The Mountain that Spoke
The event's location was symbolic. Mt. Manunggal, sacred and serene, became the stage for passionate calls for environmental responsibility and community empowerment. It was here that a diverse ensemble of participants—local political party chapters, youth groups, community organizers, and regional convenors—assembled not just to talk, but to act.
From the very beginning, the energy was palpable.
The day began with “Earth Caring” activities, a ritualistic nod to the sacred bond between people and nature. Registration and a hearty breakfast followed, setting the tone for a day of learning, dialogue, and collaboration.
GPP Chairperson David D’Angelo opened the floor with remarks that reminded attendees of the urgent, moral imperative to act. Cebu Provincial Convenor Baltz Tribunalo grounded the discussions in local reality, painting a vivid picture of the environmental and social challenges facing Visayan communities.
The youth were not merely present—they were at the forefront. Tesha Arcamo of Kabataan Para sa Kalikasan – Cebu led a creative introduction of participants that resonated with enthusiasm and fresh hope.
Deep Dive into Issues, Data, and Dreams
Joseph Ramos, GPP National President, outlined the broader “green situation,” reminding the audience that climate justice is not just an environmental issue—it is a socio-political revolution.
Engr. Richard Peñaflor, GPP’s National Auditor, unveiled key findings from the Green Survey and Project Study, providing data-driven insights into community needs and climate vulnerabilities.
After a robust open forum, the afternoon was devoted to focus group discussions modeled after the “World Café” approach—interactive, rotating dialogues designed to foster creative solutions from the grassroots.
Local voices highlighted a wide range of pressing issues:
The creeping encroachment of unsustainable development in rural areas
The lack of climate-resilient infrastructure
Marginalization of indigenous practices and wisdom
Youth disenfranchisement in environmental policymaking
From these intense discussions emerged concrete recommendations that will serve as the pillars of the national red-green agenda.
Building for the Future
The final segment of the day marked a significant milestone: the establishment of the Interim Visayas Officers of the Green Party of the Philippines. This strategic move ensured that the momentum built during the consultation would not dissipate—it would be institutionalized, organized, and sustained.
With snacks in hand and spirits renewed, the participants capped the day with heartfelt closing remarks and a symbolic photo opportunity that captured not just smiling faces, but a shared commitment to action.
Beyond the Summit: A National Reckoning
The Visayas consultation is only the beginning. As Akbayan and GPP move toward national consolidation, these localized experiences will become the heartbeat of a movement that demands climate justice, government accountability, and political courage.
The consultation also made strategic use of its Php198,000 budget—a reflection of fiscal transparency and grassroots prioritization. From transport subsidies for participants from Ormoc and Talisay, to modest allocations for food, lodging, and honoraria, the event modeled a community-first approach.
A Call to Action
In a world battered by typhoons, droughts, and political inertia, the GPP Visayas Local Consultation proved that change does not trickle from the top—it erupts from the ground. As a participant and proud representative of Wazzup Pilipinas, I witnessed firsthand the birth of something extraordinary.
We are no longer waiting for leaders to act. We are becoming those leaders.
The Green Party of the Philippines, Akbayan Partylist, and countless grassroots allies have drawn a line in the sand. With unity, vision, and relentless dedication, we march toward a future where nature thrives, justice prevails, and the Filipino people rise—undaunted and unstoppable.
Visayas has spoken. The nation is listening.
By Ross Flores Del Rosario, Wazzup Pilipinas Founder & GPP National Vice President - External Affairs