The Franciscan College of the Immaculate Conception (FCIC) actively participated in SONA Green 2025 and the Ako ang Bukas (AAB) Workshops, a two-day event held at Visayas State University (VSU) that highlighted pressing environmental issues, sustainable practices, and the role of the youth in nation-building through environmental stewardship.
Day One – September 3, 2025: SONA Green 2025
The first day opened with a welcome address delivered on behalf of Baybay City Mayor Jose Carlos L. Cari by Engr. Gretel A. Cabrito, CENRO Baybay City. She highlighted programs in coastal management, water conservation, waste reduction, and the development of parks and open spaces—underscoring Mayor Cari’s vision of achieving a “balance with the ecosystem in the city.”
VSU President Dr. Prose Ivy Guasa Yepes, EdD, represented by Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Moises Neil V. SerSiño, emphasized the university’s strong commitment to sustainability, citing its weekly Carless Day every Wednesday and branding VSU as a “Very Sustainable University.”
Keynote speaker Victoria M. Segovia, President of Green Convergence, recalled how SONA Green began in 2006 and highlighted the success of initiatives such as the One Palawan Program and environmental education campaigns. She called on the youth to take up leadership roles, stressing: “Sama-sama tayong ingatan at alagaan ang Inang Kalikasan.”
The regional discussions were led by Forester Angelito B. Villanueva of DENR Region VIII, who presented environmental challenges in Eastern Visayas, including solid waste management, air and water pollution, and climate change. Strategic actions such as increasing forest cover, conserving biodiversity, and promoting responsible mineral management were outlined.
Advocates like Carmi G. Macapagao of HEARD spoke passionately about the destruction of Homonhon Island due to decades of mining, while Victoriana Entero of the Naungan-San Juan Mangrove Planters Association shared post-Yolanda recovery efforts through mangrove planting and upcycling projects. Michelle Tañada, EVP of Alpha DDS, underscored the importance of upcycling and community collaborations.
In the afternoon national discussions, experts tackled key issues: mining (“There is no sustainable mining” – Daniel Arias), rainforestation (Dr. Dennis P. Peque), coastal ecosystem management (Dr. Hilly Ann R. Quiaoit and Roberto “Ka Dodoy” Ballon), and mangrove rehabilitation (Marlon P. Palomo). Their talks emphasized stewardship, solidarity, and sustainable habits.
The day concluded with Cecilia S. Gacson, PNEE President, presenting consolidated resolutions and leading the symbolic tree of pledges, reinforcing collective action for a greener Philippines.
Day Two – September 4, 2025: Ako ang Bukas (AAB) Workshops
The second day was devoted to workshops on climate action and native tree conservation.
Dr. Angelina P. Galang, Program Director of the AAB Movement and Founding Trustee of Green Convergence, opened the session with a discussion on climate change, the ecological paradigm, and the 7 Environmental Principles. She stressed that respecting the laws of nature is vital in addressing climate challenges.
Ms. Agnes de Jesus, Chief Sustainability Officer of First Philippine Holdings, introduced participants to GHG emission calculators, explaining how individuals, households, and organizations can measure and manage carbon footprints. She outlined mitigation strategies, decarbonization pathways, and the importance of global and local action to “help stop climate disruption.”
Ms. Milagros S. Serrano later guided participants in exploring the AAB GHG Emission Calculator, showing how it can be applied to daily life to monitor and reduce emissions.
In the afternoon, Ms. Imelda Sarmiento, Program Leader of Philippine Native Trees, highlighted the ecological services of native trees, stressing that planting local species ensures biodiversity conservation and ecosystem stability. She drew wisdom from the Bible, science, and environmental leaders, encouraging the youth to safeguard the country’s rich biodiversity.
Mr. Jayson Mansibang, biologist from UP, added insights on lost and endangered native species, while Dr. Paciencia P. Milan, former president of VSU, reminded participants of Gandhi’s message: “There is enough for one’s needs, but not enough for one’s greed.” She challenged the youth to embrace simplicity and take part in forest restoration.
The session ended with the unifying call:
“Ako ang Bukas, Ikaw ang Bukas, Tayo ang Bukas.”
Although FCIC participants were not able to join the scheduled tree planting activity due to the unfavorable weather and late hour, the day closed meaningfully, with everyone going home safe, inspired, and more committed to their role in protecting the environment.
By Ronel Dapar
