Why actress Janine Gutierrez champions wildlife protection

Actress and model Janine Gutierrez is widely recognized for her captivating performances, but beyond the glitz and glamour, she dedicates her voice and platform to a cause close to her heart: wildlife protection. As a steadfast National Youth Ambassador for World Wildlife Fund-Philippines (WWF-PH) since 2017, Janine consistently highlights crucial environmental issues, particularly how climate change profoundly impacts Filipino farmers and fisherfolk.

Her commitment was recently on full display at WWF-PH’s "Panda on the Move" roadshow, an immersive event designed to bring nature's call directly to the public in various Megaworld Lifestyle Malls. Kicking off on September 3 at Lucky Chinatown Mall, the initiative features stunning photo exhibits by Gab Mejia showcasing habitat and wildlife conservation, engaging environmental talks, and interactive donation and adoption booths, all aimed at inspiring action.

During the roadshow, Janine passionately articulated her belief that such accessible platforms are vital for empowering families to learn, connect, and actively participate in protecting our natural world. While financial contributions are always welcome, she particularly emphasized her appreciation for young people leveraging their voices and online presence to amplify WWF's crucial environmental advocacies. Her dedication stems from a deeply personal understanding, reinforced by her 2017 visit to Donsol, Sorsogon, where she engaged with students on whale shark protection and sustainable eco-tourism. This, coupled with her ongoing work, solidified her conviction that environmental efforts must inherently focus on both nature and the communities, especially Filipino farmers and fisherfolk, who bear the brunt of climate change.

Echoing Janine’s sentiments, WWF-PH Executive Director Catherine Custodio underscored that genuine support extends far beyond donations. She highlighted the immense power of collective everyday actions, urging individuals to consciously refuse single-use plastics, conserve vital resources, and actively reduce waste. "It's very easy for people to think, 'Will my refusal of the single-use really make a difference?' And the answer is yes, it will," Custodio stated, emphasizing that these small choices, when adopted by many, are the only effective way to tackle widespread issues like plastic pollution.

Custodio further emphasized the critical role of young people in driving positive social and environmental change through their voices and online platforms. She encouraged them not to lose hope, reminding them that they are the future stewards of the planet, entrusted with addressing and ultimately solving the escalating environmental challenges. Their combined efforts, no matter how seemingly small, hold the key to a sustainable tomorrow.

For those inspired to join the movement, the "Panda on the Move" roadshow continues its journey across various locations. Upcoming stops include Alabang West Parade (September 7-11), Greenhouse at Village Square, Alabang (September 22-26), Twin Lakes (September 29-October 3), Southwoods Mall (October 6-12), Venice Grand Canal at McKinley Hill (October 13-19), Eastwood City (October 20-24), and Uptown Bonifacio (October 27-31).