PULUPANDAN, Negros, Philippines
November, 2005

There was a proposed construction of a coal power plant. There was a group of courageous women from various sectors of society leading and educating their fellow Negrenses. Among them a principal, a farmer, a fisherwoman, and a school teacher.

They opposed relentlessly the irresponsible proponents of dirty energy, both private and government, and demanded cleaner alternatives to energy sourced from solar, wind and biomass. They did their research. They went to the streets. They withstood threats of violence even.

They won.

In 2002, the community claimed victory in their fight when the local government announced the cancellation of the planned coal power plant. The gasses and pollutants emitted by coal plants bring destruction to the seas and the land, compromising eco-systems, health and livelihood.

I was able to get to know them last year while documenting the 'Asia Energy Revolution Tour' held by Greenpeace when the flagship 'Rainbow Warrior' visited Philippine shores. These women are simply remarkable. And I'm not saying that just because I came home with a bottle of home-made 'sinamak' vinegar that one of the ladies generously gave me.

These are some of the portraits of these inspiring women. Check out the grrl power article written by Anne Marie Evans in the March 2006 issue of Marie Claire magazine.

For more information visit: http://www.greenpeace.org/seasia/en/press/releases/tribute-pulupandan-revolutionaries