October 4, 2024 – The Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) participated in the Aurora leg of the online forum titled “Kilos Kabataan Para sa Saribuhay” through Zoom video conferencing. This forum is part of a series of dynamic events organized by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Region III, aimed at empowering the youth to take an active role in conserving biodiversity and managing natural resources.
The forum kicked off with a welcoming message from the Assistant Regional Director of PIA Region III. “Let us embrace our roles as stewards of biodiversity with unwavering determination. Let us collectively pledge to deepen our understanding of environmental preservation inspire others to join on this vital journey. We are not passive spectators but active and change trusted with the responsibility to champion biodiversity and sustainable natural resources management. Together let us park a movement that resonates beyond Central Luzon shaping a brighter, more resilient future generations to come” he said.
Dr. Renato G. Reyes, ASCOT President, also delivered an inspirational message, stressing the importance of biodiversity conservation and encouraging students to be proactive in safeguarding the environment. “Mahalaga ang biodiversity dahil ito ang nagpapanatili ng balanse at ganda ng ating mundo. Bilang kabataan kayo ang mga kamay nag mag-malaga at magpapanitili dito upang hindi tuluyang mawala ang kulay at buhay ng ating kalikasan. Every small action counts kaya’t sama-sama nating itaguyod ang isang malinis at sustainable na kapaligiran para sa ating lahat” he said.
The first guest speaker, Ms. Guia Mae Dumacas, Information Officer I of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region III, discussed biodiversity with a focus on Region III and the province of Aurora. She explained that the Philippines is one of the world’s 17 mega-diverse countries, meaning it has an extraordinary range of species, many of which are found nowhere else in the world. Ms. Dumacas also covered the different types of biodiversity and the threats they face, such as deforestation, habitat destruction, and climate change. She encouraged the youth to take part in conservation efforts, whether through tree planting, advocating for wildlife protection, or simply being mindful of their ecological footprint.
The second speaker, Ms. Rachelle Ganancial, an environmental journalist and Information Officer II of PIA Palawan, spoke about effective ways to communicate biodiversity conservation and the importance of sharing accurate information on natural resources management. She stressed the power of communication in mobilizing communities to take action for environmental causes. Ms. Ganancial’s talk highlighted the significant role that media, particularly young communicators, can play in spreading awareness and inspiring others to care for the environment.
Before the forum concluded, both speakers shared their parting messages, encouraging the youth to take small but impactful actions for biodiversity conservation. They emphasized that even the smallest efforts, when combined, can lead to significant positive outcomes for the environment.
Wrapping up the event, ASCOT Supreme College Student Council (SCSC) President Jawnell Baldonade delivered the closing remarks, expressing gratitude to the speakers and participants. He reiterated the importance of youth involvement in protecting biodiversity, urging his fellow students to continue their efforts in making a difference.
Several students from ASCOT participated in the forum, led by Information Unit Head Diana Rose P. De Mesa-Amazona and President Dr. Renato G. Reyes. Through events like this, ASCOT continues to engage its students in meaningful activities that promote environmental stewardship and active citizenship.
