The Embassy of France to the Philippines and Micronesia, in collaboration with the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Office of Senator Loren Legarda, the Intramuros Administration, and the NGO Liter of Light, unveiled the “Blue Lanterns” climate art installation at Fort Santiago, Intramuros.
This symbolic event highlights the shared commitment of France and the Philippines—both maritime nations—to protect the world’s oceans and confront the challenges of climate change. It also serves as a lead-up to the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3), which France will co-chair with Costa Rica in Nice in June 2025.
The installation is part of the broader initiative “Blue Nations: France and the Philippines, Partners for the Ocean,” which was launched by the French Embassy in June 2024 to build momentum for the upcoming conference.
As part of these efforts, the Embassy and Liter of Light also launched the “100 Days for the Ocean” campaign on February 26, 2025—coinciding with the 10th anniversary of the Manila Call to Climate Action. That historic joint declaration, issued in 2015 by then-President Benigno Aquino III and French President François Hollande, helped pave the way for the landmark Paris Climate Agreement at COP21.
The “Blue Lanterns” installation features over 1,000 handcrafted solar-powered lamps made from recycled, sustainable materials. Designed and assembled with the help of students, public institutions, private sector partners, and civil society from both France and the Philippines, the project demonstrates a commitment to innovation, environmental responsibility, and community-driven action.
Set in the historic heart of Manila, Fort Santiago—twin city to Nice—provides a powerful backdrop for this message of unity and ocean stewardship. By choosing this iconic heritage site, organizers hope to draw attention to the deep-rooted connections between cultural preservation and environmental sustainability.
The installation stands as a beacon of hope and a call to action for future generations to protect our marine ecosystems and cultural treasures alike.