The name Pongsa Chunam has been familiar among environmentalists for years. As the chief of Ban Patoh Watershed protection Division in Chumporn,Pongsa launched "tree Bank",a forestation campaign that encourages villagers to plant tree and protect the environment.
He has won a long list of accolades,including the 1992 United in 1999.
Pongsa's name has recently become more widely known from another activity-- he spoke at the people's Democratic Reform Committee stage on Ratchadamnoen Avenue on Dec 28 and captivated the protesters.Pingsa is fully aware of PDRC leader Suthep thaugsuban's alleged corruption-such as the illegal Sor Por Kor 4-01 land distribution-- the conservationist chooses a pragmatic path to joining the anti-government protest.