Environmental advocate Rodne Rodiño Galicha formally filed his certificate of candidacy (COC) on Tuesday, confirming his bid for Vice Governor of Romblon. He will run alongside incumbent Odiongan Mayor Trina Firmalo-Fabic, who is vying for the gubernatorial seat in the 2025 elections.
Galicha, known for his extensive work in climate activism and human rights, explained that his decision to enter politics is rooted in his desire to address pressing social and environmental issues.
“To actively respond to the cry of the earth and the cry of the poor through public service, a unique and strategic role of the laity for the common good and our common home,” he told Romblon News Network.
Galicha has been a prominent voice in environmental advocacy, both locally and internationally. He previously served as the country manager for The Climate Reality Project, an organization founded by former U.S. Vice President and Nobel Laureate Al Gore, which focuses on combating climate change. His leadership extends to his work as Executive Director of the Bayay Sibuyanon, which was formed in 2011 to protect the biodiversity of Sibuyan Island. He has also been the national convenor for Aksyon Klima, a civil society network that addresses climate change issues across the Philippines.
In addition to his environmental work, Galicha founded Living Laudato Si’, an interfaith movement advocating against environmentally destructive activities, inspired by Pope Francis' encyclical of the same name.
Recently, he played a central role in the campaign to halt mining operations on Sibuyan Island to preserve the ecological integrity of Mt. Guiting-Guiting, also known as the “Galapagos of Asia.”
Galicha is also known media figure in Romblon. He hosted Humbak ng Pag-uswag, a popular online program during the COVID-19 pandemic, which aired on Romblon News Network. His media group continues to provide free live-streaming services for various community and religious events.
Galicha holds degrees in Philosophy (cum laude) from the University of Santo Tomas, and a diploma in Integral Ecology from the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome, Italy, highlighting his strong academic foundation in environmental studies
