Today, we remember Gloria Capitan (1959–2016), an environmental defender and community leader whose courage continues to inspire the fight for environmental justice.
As president of the Samahan ng Nagkakaisang Mamamayan ng Lucanin and a leader in the Coal-Free Bataan Movement, Gloria stood with her community in opposing coal pollution and advocating for the health, dignity, and well-being of present and future generations. Her life reminds us that meaningful change begins with ordinary people who choose to act with conviction and solidarity.
Featured here is Gloria Capitan’s illustration from Alas ng Bayan 2, illustrated by Basilio “Billy” Pangilinan as part of the Alas ng Bayan project of the Constantino Foundation and 350 Pilipinas.
The artwork is currently featured in Pasts Revisited: An Exhibit on a Usable History and the Romance of Renato Constantino and Letizia Roxas Constantino at the Yuchengco Museum. Through contemporary works such as Alas ng Bayan, the exhibition explores the Constantinos’ idea of usable history—drawing lessons from the past that can guide our actions toward a more just and sustainable future.
As we remember Gloria Capitan today, may her life continue to inspire us to protect our communities, defend our environment, and turn memory into meaningful action.
