Letter of Appreciation

The Philippines Pursues Exemplary Initiatives

 

Lt. Gen. Victor Ibrado

“The true measure of good governance is improvement in the lives of the people,” is the yardstick used by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo when making policy decisions for the Philippines. Most recently, President Arroyo called for collective participation of the public and private sectors in a nationwide environmental awareness campaign as she declared Nov. 19 to 25 of each year as “Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness Week.” The positive changes seen during her wise leadership have been truly notable.

When smoking was banned in the Philippine Army, Supreme Master Ching Hai sent a letter of thanks to Army spokesman, Lt. Col. Romeo Brawner, Jr. on September 8, Golden Year 5 (2008). She wrote, “... Your noble intervention is a great step forward in uplifting mankind to a higher consciousness ... Such exemplary actions are sure to have a ripple effect, inspiring others to follow.”

More constructive Philippine news came in Lt. Col. Brawner’s reply of September 28, saying that the Commanding General of the Philippine Army, Lt. Gen. Victor Ibrado, had ordered the implementation of “carless days” within all major Army camps in the Philippines. This program, he wrote, “aims to promote a healthy lifestyle among Army personnel; save on gasoline and other petroleum products; and lessen air pollution.” As a nation, the Philippines has already ratified the Kyoto Protocol, enacted the Clean Air Act, and celebrates the Clean Air Month in November of each year.

Supreme Master Ching Hai lauded the Philippines for adopting the Clean Air Act, building a wind farm in Ilocos Norte, and minimizing the use of non-renewable resources. In a letter dated October 21, Master wrote to Lt. Gen. Ibrado, “Your nation and indeed her military are truly setting the benchmark for sustainable living in Asia, creating a clean environment for our future.”

With their dedication to ensuring the health of their people and caring for our planet, President Macapagal-Arroyo and the government of the Philippines continue to live up to a promise of good governance!

Reply letter from Lt Col Romeo Brawner, Jr., Philippine Army Spokesman (letter from army.doc) Thank you letters from Master
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