Picture a tropical landscape, set up by Al de Veyra and Vangie Go of Fernbrook Gardens right in the US ambassador’s residence.

 

Outgoing envoy Harry K. Thomas said the “eco-paradise” stood for the hope for a sustainable future.

 

The occasion was “Fashion Forward,” a celebration of ecological enterprises highlighted by a fashion show featuring earth-friendly garments by Levi’s, Ditta Sandico (her numerologist told her to spell her name in five letters) and Paul Cabral. To underscore the eco-theme, Miss Earth beauties modeled some of the clothes.

 

Thomas said the US government supports eco-fashion because it generates jobs while keeping an eye on the environment. In addition, he wanted to highlight beautiful Philippine-made products that are made with minimal impact on the planet.

 

In his speech, Thomas said the eco-friendly clothes symbolized the reciprocal relationship between man and nature.

 

He also pointed out how the United States leads in sustainable development and environmental protection.

 

“Through two USAID projects—Eco-Fish and CEnergy—the US government is working with the Philippine government toward promoting sustainable fisheries, addressing energy security and combating climate change. Our government’s cooperation via the Philippine Tropical Rainforest Conservation Foundation is helping preserve the biodiversity of the Philippine forests.”

 

He added that the bilateral Science and Technology Agreement also ensures that the best resources would be provided toward meeting the challenges of sustainability.

 

Thomas cited American businesses such as Levi’s, Timberland, Coca-Cola, Dole and EAS Corp. and how “they are working with partners and local communities to advance sustainable business practices and products and to improve livelihood opportunities, economic growth and the quality of life in the Philippines.”

 

He also commended social entrepreneur Illac Diaz for his “Liter of Light” project, which provides lighting to poor communities.

 

The two other people he cited were Wendy Fleming of Lumago, who works with artisans in a local women’s collective in Dumaguete to turn trash into fashion treasures; and Reese Fernandez-Ruiz of Rags2Riches, who works with poor communities to produce “handicraft items with a positive social aspect and ecological impact.”

 

When he leaves, Thomas will bring with him what he said he learned here: “To spend quality time with family and friends.”