CCNCI Joins Alay-Bayan Inc.'s 15th Anniversary Celebration

The Climate Change Network for Community-based Initiatives (CCNCI) joins the celebration of Alay-Bayan Inc.’s (ABI) 15th anniversary in Angeles City, Pampanga on April 10, 2015.

The activity, which was held just outside their main office in Angeles City, was attended by various ABI partners from the NGO community, the academe. and representatives from ABI’s Disaster Preparedness Committees (DPCs) in Luzon.

The event started with an ecumenical service officiated by Rev. Jose Fernan Logrado. In his homily, he praised the brand of dedicated service ABI showed in its long years of helping build resilient communities in sectors most vulnerable to natural and man-made disasters.

In the main program that followed, ABI paid tribute to individuals who contributed immensely to the growth of ABI. Recipients of certificates of appreciation include long time officer and human rights advocate Cecilia Ruiz.

In a video presentation, ABI looked back on its 15 years. Highlight was the continued fight for justice for Wilhelm Geertman. The environmentalist and beloved ABI executive director was slain on July 3, 2012.

CCNCI networks Citizens Disaster Response Center (CDRC) and Center for Environmental Concerns (CEC) as well as people’s organizations and foreign institutions also delivered solidarity messages.

To cap the event, Karl Ramirez of the progressive Plagpul band played a rousing rendition of Alay sa Bayan, a fitting song that mirrored ABI’s selfless advocacy to rebuild and strengthen disaster-prone communities.

Alay Bayan, Inc. forms part of CCNCI’s network. Aside from pioneering relief and disaster mitigation efforts in Central Luzon, ABI partners with the academe, people’s organizations and environmental advcates to raise awareness on climate change adaptation and its damaging effects. It also integrates climate change discussions among its numerous DPCs all over Luzon. ###