• KEITH BRANDON CARI-AN
Young people of Sipalay City, once again, joined hands for the environment.
Now in its second year, the Youth Environment Camp initiated by the City Environment and Natural Resources Office gathered passionate youth, June 6 to 7, at the local conservation area of Barangay 5 in Sipalay City for two days of environmental education, action, and fun.
Youths from Central Philippine State University, Sangguniang Kabataan officials and officers, and volunteer groups, including out-of-school youth, joined the camp.
“We want the youth, whether SKs or out of school, to take on a more aggressive and committed role in taking care of our environment,” said Mayor Maria Gina Lizares.
In her message during the camp, Mayor Lizares urged the youth campers not to limit themselves and expand their advocacies.
The camp engaged and educated young individuals on environmental issues and restoration practices, aligning with the global #GerenationRestoration movement, which is part of this year’s World Environment Day slogan.
“You, our Sipalaynon youth, especially our Sangguniang Kabataan offices, should not limit your advocacy to sports. Develop a mindset that is mindful and responsible of what happens around you, most importantly, with regard to the environment,” Lizares said.
The city mayor also pointed out that the tech-savvy youth should not just use social media for entertainment. “Instead, they should push the agenda for environmental conservation and preservation.”
The camp also sought to empower the youth to become more active in ecological restoration and sustainability efforts.
The campers learned more about the local and global situation of the environment through lectures and group activities, such as the Eco Challenge Race, art competition, and “komposo” (folk song or ballad) writing and performance.
The participants were inspired to express their concerns, showcase innovative ideas, and discuss environmental challenges while directly contributing to local reforestation efforts and waste reduction goals of the local government.
City ENR Office Leo Chua also invited the campers to join the 24th Sipalay Environment Month activities in line with the National Environment Month celebration.
Among the highlight events of this month are the signing of a partnership agreement of the Sipalay City Government with stakeholders for the Green EaCH program along with the launch of the “Funnanom” Ordinance.
Young Sipalaynons and stakeholders are invited to join the Youth Convergence and Environmental Stewardship Forum and Dialogue on June 26 at the city hall.
On June 27, a simultaneous coastal clean-up with Coastal Waste Management Program partners will be held at Barangays 4, Cartagena, Canturay, and Maricalum.
The month-long celebration will culminate on June 28 with a program and awarding ceremony for “Pasidungog sa Tig-amlig sang Palibot kag Dunang Manggad,” which will recognize stakeholders for their contribution towards environmental conservation, protection, and restoration in Sipalay. | Sipalay PIO photos
