Police to join Earth Hour lights-out activity

Earth Hour 2012 official video

MANILA, Philippines—If the neighborhood police precinct suddenly goes dark on Saturday night, don’t freak out.

The Philippine National Police announced Wednesday it is joining Earth Hour 2012 by switching off lights for one hour starting at 8:30 p.m. in all its units and offices across the country on March 31 as a way to save on power.

“By switching off the lights and unnecessary electrical equipment in all units/offices, the PNP takes its share in mitigating the effects of climate change as it encourages PNP networks and communities nationwide to commit one hour as support to the event,” PNP spokesperson Chief Superintendent Agrimero Cruz Jr. said.

In a statement, Cruz said the World Wide Fund invited PNP Director General Nicanor Bartolome and the 143,000-strong PNP to take part in the annual power switch-off in order to promote the conservation of resources and adaptation to climate change.

“The PNP will ensure its active involvement and participation in the Earth Hour 2012 and will assure the safety and security of the people and properties during the observance of the event,” Bartolome said in the same statement.

Over 100 countries are expected to take part in the campaign for energy efficiency, renewable energy and climate adaptation.