CSPC-CAS and RiCES lead the way in building a Climate-Smart Community

A community vulnerable to landslides and the adverse effects of climate change has taken a bold stride toward environmental resilience through the extension activity “GREEN RISE: Building Climate-Smart Practices through Student Leaders and Faculty Empowerment.”

The initiative was spearheaded by the Science Faculty of the CSPC–College of Arts and Sciences in collaboration with the Rinconada Center for Environmental Sustainability (RiCES) on October 16–17, 2025.

The activity was designed to empower the students and faculty of Laganac High School by raising environmental awareness, promoting sustainable practices, and strengthening the community’s capacity for climate adaptation.

Led by CAS Extension Coordinator Romer F. Beltran-Yu and RiCES Head Ma. Ludilyn B. Agapito, the two-day program highlighted the crucial role of youth and educators as environmental changemakers.

CAS Science Faculty members, Ma. Ludilyn B. Agapito, Francia J. Babay, Menrose J. Bolalin, and Jose Carlo A. Ibardo served as resource speakers, facilitating interactive discussions and workshops.

To encourage long-term advocacy, the team also distributed Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials that promote practical, climate-smart actions.
Participants designed school-based environmental projects focusing on waste management, school gardens, and conservation efforts—initiatives that bring sustainability directly into their classrooms and communities.

The program concluded with a tree-planting activity, symbolizing growth and renewal, followed by an awarding ceremony recognizing outstanding participants for their commitment to environmental stewardship.

This initiative was made possible through the collaboration of DENR–CENRO Iriga City, MENRO–Balatan, Laganac High School, Barangay Laganac, and Barangay Cayogcog of Balatan, Camarines Sur.

Through this partnership, CSPC–CAS and RiCES reaffirm their commitment to community empowerment and sustainable development which nurtures a generation of environmentally conscious citizens who lead the way toward a greener and climate-resilient future.