By: Toby Chuanico
Anna Oposa is 24 years old, and despite her young age, she is has already made a name for herself as an advocate for the environment. She is the ambassador of the Philippine seas and the director of the law of nature foundation. She is known in Philippine environmental and marine conservation circles as a “passionate advocate gifted with the charisma to influence others, especially the youth, to share the passion for protecting the environment.” She is known for her project, “Save the Philippine Seas,” an independent movement that protests against marine wildlife abuse. This group had their first act on April 9, 2011, resolving a problem regarding a US-based company allegedly importing shells, corals, and other endangered marine wildlife from Indo-Pacific countries, including the Philippines. Even until now, her group continues to research and investigate environmental problems, keeps citizens aware of the difficulties facing marine life, and enforces environmental laws.
“One of the greatest compliments I ever got was – I was in Japan and I had just given a presentation about the Philippine waste management, and one Singaporean went up to me after and said, “You know, you make me wish I was a Filipino.” And I ended up crying because I was so moved.”
Ms. Oposa is a Filipino hero following Rizal’s example of service to the country. Her passion for the environment and her fight for marine life mirror Rizal’s own struggle for Filipino equality and rights. Despite her young age, she has already gone out of her way to deal with several cases involving the abuse of marine life, and she constantly seeks to protect the natural beauty of the Philippines. Her constant determination and burning passion for life make her a hero as worthy as Rizal.
http://humanheartnature.com/buy/index.php/content/anna-oposa-ambassador-of-the-philippine-seas http://savephilippineseas.com/
filipino first 
Toby, great job with such an inspiring role model and hero! The environmental abuse that the Philippines currently faces is really a big problem. Glad to see that the youth can appreciate the heroes who fight against said problem.
Her young age and fiery spirit, along with her passion for the environment make her a hero after Rizal’s own heart. Thank God for Filipinos like her! 🙂
What a shining example of what the youth can achieve despite what seems to be a lack of experience. Hopefully this webpage will inspire the youth of today to follow the footsteps of such a heroine.
I’ve been to the Philippines before, and I have to say that it really is a beautiful place. I’d hate to see all its beauty destroyed by the negligence of big businesses and polluters. I harbor only gratitude that people like Anna Oposa still safeguard such treasures of the world as the natural wonders of the Philippines.