Daclapan, Cabugao, Ilocos Sur – January 30, 2025 – Blending environmental action and social advocacy, the Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences spearheaded a community outreach program as part of the 59^th Anniversary celebration of the College of Arts and Sciences in Daclapan Elementary School, Cabugao, Ilocos Sur.

Over 100 participants, including students, parents, and faculty members, engaged in hands-on activities like coastal clean-up to combat marine pollution and vertical gardening training to urban agriculture.

The event was organized by the department’s flagship program Math-Tuto Ka sa Natural na Siyensiya, with key component Ecological Protection Program that aims to enhance environmental conservation and community resilience through initiatives such as the coastal clean-ups and waste management.

The event kicked off with keynote speeches of Prof. Mhark Jay Benitez, who linked environmental efforts to social equity, advocating for gender-inclusive coastal cleanups and cultural harmony, and Prof. Rhommel Aninag, who highlighted combined traditional Ilocano agricultural wisdom with modern vertical gardening techniques, emphasizing the importance of both traditional and modern gardening techniques in promoting sustainability.

The success of this program underscores the commitment of the department to fostering environmental consciousness and inclusive sustainability, ensuring that future generations embrace responsible ecological practices. As the College of Arts and Sciences marks its 59th year, this collaborative effort reaffirms its dedication to community engagement, education, and sustainable development.

Article by Digna Jacob.