A Green Thread in the Heart of Tondo: Unpacking Climate Justice with Rotary

A significant discussion on "Who's Left Behind in the Climate Justice Discourse?" took place on April 27, 2025, at McDonald's on J Abad Santos Avenue in Tondo, Manila, featuring Timothy James Cipriano from Philippine Normal University and attended by members of Interact, Rotaract, and the Rotary Club of Luntiang Maynila Prime.

This wasn't just an ordinary meeting. It was a convergence of generations and community spirits, brought together by the Rotary Club of Luntiang Maynila Prime, joined by the vibrant energy of Interact and Rotaract members. And at the heart of the discussion was a voice from the Center for Transformative Education at Philippine Normal University, that of Timothy James Cipriano.

Mr. Cipriano, with his expertise in transformative education, was there to guide us through a crucial conversation. Climate change isn't just about melting ice caps and rising sea levels; it's also a matter of justice. It's about understanding how the impacts of a changing climate disproportionately affect certain communities, often those who have contributed the least to the problem.

As the discussion unfolded, you could feel the gears turning in the minds of everyone present. Interact members, the young leaders of tomorrow, listened intently, their questions reflecting a genuine curiosity about the future they will inherit. Rotaract members, bridging the gap between youth and adulthood, brought their thoughtful perspectives and a desire for tangible action. And the Rotarians of Luntiang Maynila Prime, with their wealth of experience and commitment to service, provided a grounding presence, reminding us that collective action is key.

Mr. Cipriano's insights likely delved into the complexities of climate justice – the vulnerability of marginalized communities, the concept of historical responsibility, and the need for equitable solutions. The "who's left behind" question wasn't just rhetorical; it was a call to look beyond the headlines and consider the real human stories behind the climate crisis.

Imagine the conversations that sparked around those tables. Discussions about the urban poor facing increased risks from extreme weather events, the impact on agricultural communities, and the challenges of access to resources and information. It was a powerful reminder that climate action isn't just an environmental issue; it's a social and ethical imperative.

This gathering in Tondo wasn't just an academic exercise. It was a stepping stone for action. The energy in the room was palpable, a testament to the power of bringing people together to discuss critical issues. It was a moment where the Rotary family, across its different branches, demonstrated their commitment to addressing global challenges at a local level.

Leaving McDonald's that evening, attendees likely carried with them not just the taste of their meal, but a deeper understanding of climate justice and a renewed sense of purpose. The question "Who's Left Behind?" lingered, not as a point of despair, but as a call to ensure that no one is forgotten in the fight for a sustainable and equitable future.

The Rotary Club of Luntiang Maynila Prime, with the support of Interact and Rotaract, created a valuable space for this crucial dialogue. And the presence of Timothy James Cipriano from Philippine Normal University ensured that the conversation was grounded in knowledge and a commitment to transformative change. This gathering in the heart of Tondo was a small but significant step in weaving a green thread of climate justice into the fabric of our communities. It served as a powerful reminder that the journey towards a sustainable future requires us to ask the tough questions and work together to find the answers, ensuring that no one is left behind.

Written by: PP Arnil Señoron, Rotary Club of Luntiang Maynila Prime, District 3810