Environmental advocate honored for efforts to protect Laguna de Bay
Pinky Tobiano. HandoutChemist and environmental advocate Pinky Tobiano received the Kababaihan ng Lawa Award – Excellence of Women for the Lake from the Laguna Lake Development Authority last October 16 for her efforts to protect Laguna de Bay and support communities that depend on the lake for their livelihood.
Tobiano was recognized for leading “Abot-Kamay Para sa Laguna de Bay: Mission in Action – Solid Waste Recovery,” an initiative that mobilizes volunteers to collect waste and help protect the lake.
Plastic waste, including discarded sachets, continues to threaten the lake’s ecosystem and the livelihoods of local fishermen. Fish that ingest plastic can suffer injuries or die, affecting the families who rely on their catch for income.
Tobiano also founded Progressive Eco Warriors, a group of environmental advocates committed to protecting natural resources and helping fishing communities.
The group conducts monthly lakeshore cleanups in support of the LLDA’s environmental initiatives.
“Together, let us turn recognition into action and make every act of service count,” Tobiano said.