City of Dreams Manila in partnership with Bantay Kalikasan, ABS- CBN Lingkod Kapamilya Foundation Inc.’s environmental arm, is taking part in the global annual Earth Hour on March 30 through a program dubbed “A Walk to Save the Earth.” More than the ceremonial one-hour lights-out activity, the event to be held at the luxury resort’s main casino entrance, highlights both proponents’ pledge for environmental protection and a sustainable future through practicing eco-efficient operations.

The resort’s Sustainability Ambassadors are leading the event with the participation of around 200 employee-volunteers of City of Dreams Manila and a contingent from Bantay Kalikasan for the symbolic walk at 8 p.m. around the property — representing the two institutions’ solidarity towards Earth Hour’s goal of uniting people to take action on various environmental issues.

The symbolic walk is followed by the observance of the ceremonial switch off from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., simultaneous with other countries.  The resort will be turning off the lights of its dome dubbed the Fortune Egg — City of Dreams’ and the Manila Bay area’s iconic landmark. The program then culminates with a set of compelling song and dance performances dedicated for the environment from the resort’s talented employees.

Other activities also include writing of personal pledges for a greener planet on a “Commitment Wall.” Moreover, to draw further engagement towards this cause, City of Dreams Manila encourages its guests to be part of this global environmental campaign by turning off the lights in their rooms, and join other guests in the resort’s dining outlets and public areas for the one-hour duration.

“City of Dreams Manila, together with Bantay Kalikasan, joins the many countries around the world in the Earth Hour to spark conversation and take action to help protect the environment and curb climate change. Together with the strong support of our more than 5,000 employees as led by our  Sustainability Ambassadors, we pledge our commitment in conserving and being good stewards of the environment as well as in continuing to set the bar for a greener hospitality and entertainment industry in the country,” Kevin Benning, City of Dreams Manila Chief Operating Officer said.

An initiative of the World Wide Fund (WWF), Earth Hour started as a symbolic lights out event in Sydney back in 2007. Over the years, it has grown to become a global grassroots movement for the environment that inspired individuals, communities, governments, businesses, and organizations to take tangible action to address pressing environmental issues. In 2018, earthhour.org recorded a total of 188 countries and territories that have participated in Earth Hour. This year, with the theme “#Connect2Earth,” it encourages millions of people to speak up about why nature matters.

Sustainability at City of Dreams Manila

This year’s participation of City of Dreams Manila in Earth Hour is one of the many sustainability undertakings of the luxury resort to achieve its goals of enhancing eco-efficient operations.

To date, City of Dreams Manila has spearheaded various sustainable initiatives within the property under the program dubbed “Sustainable Dreams,” which implements the resort’s long-term sustainability program.

Among these are: a vermicomposting facility and greenhouse nursery on property; a holistic and sustainable coffee program for which it  partners with local coffee farmers, and eliminates wastes by using coffee remains  at the vermicomposting area; the use of biodegradable and compostable plates, utensils and take-out bags at The Garage VR Zone and food park; a dynamic employee volunteerism program that also covers coastal clean-up drives along Manila Bay; and mangrove and tree planting activities in Laguna and Cavite.

“There is a growing call to collectively step up for a sustainable future and we, together with the strong support of our employees, our guests, and the communities we partner with, aim to take an even active role to heed this call,” Mr. Benning stated.

For inquiries, call 800-8080 or e-mail [email protected] or visitwww.cityofdreamsmanila.com.