In celebration of the 59th foundation anniversary of the University of Northern Philippines (UNP), the College of Arts and Sciences, Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (CAS-DMNS) hosted an outreach program on October 17, 2024, in Daclapan, Cabugao. It was themed “One Coast, Many Voices: A Training Highlighting Gender Roles, Recognizing Cultural Connections, and Co-opting Horticulture Practices in Natural Resources Preservation.” The event sought to promote environmental conservation, gender equality, and cultural awareness within the community.

The Daclapan Elementary School students, as well as members of the Girl and Boy Scouts, participated enthusiastically in a coastal cleaning along the Daclapan shoreline, which marked the beginning of the day’s program. These young environmentalists worked alongside their parents to gather and dispose of waste, hence keeping the coastal environment clean and healthy.

The scouts’ participation demonstrated the importance of youth leadership and responsibility, while the presence of parents bolstered the communal spirit and multigenerational commitment in environmental stewardship.

The second part of the activity included training workshops on sustainable practices and community empowerment. The first session, “Hydroponics for Sustainable Agriculture: A Hands-on Workshop on Soil-Free Farming,” was led by Dr. Alma B. Segismundo. It introduced the community to the practical way of producing plants without soil. This hands-on event taught participants how to set up hydroponic systems, providing a long-term solution to local agricultural difficulties while emphasizing the need for environmentally friendly farming practices. 

The second session, “Empowering Communities: Exploring Gender Roles in Sustainable Waste Management,” was conducted by Dr. Denesse Jane G. Meresen. This session focused on how gender roles influence waste management practices, as well as the importance of inclusivity in environmental efforts. Dr. Meresen highlighted the crucial roles that both men and women play in managing waste sustainably and encouraged participants to view waste management through a lens that values gender equity and community collaboration.

Cultural connections were recognized and explored throughout the event, with discussions about sustainable farming and resource management using local traditions and practices. The program’s comprehensive approach emphasized the cultural value of the local community’s interaction with the land and water, leading to a better understanding of how traditional knowledge may supplement modern sustainability techniques.

The event would not have been possible without the support of Mr. Gilbert A. Asuncion, Head Teacher of Daclapan Elementary School, as well as the active participation of the school’s parents, Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) officers, and PTA President Gretchen Somera.

The coastal cleanup and training sessions provided an excellent opportunity for participants to interact with both traditional and modern techniques, ultimately fostering a shared responsibility for environmental stewardship throughout the community.

Article by Jenny Grace I. Almazan.