SM Prime and WWF-Philippines recognizes the important role that the youth plays as guardians of the environment. Thru this partnership, SM Prime and WWF-Philippines has launched YOUth are the Future, a leadership program that aims to equip young students to have a more proactive role in environmental conservation, climate change, and other sustainability issues.
"There is no better time than now to educate the youth. As stewards of the planet, it is important that they have an opportunity to learn about environmental conservation, encourage them to voice out their fresh ideas, and share new perspectives," said Dino Calderon, Sustainable Development Project Head at WWF-Philippines.
"When we provide our young student leaders with learning opportunities and expose them to practical solutions, we have a chance to help them design a sustainable future. We are committed to make sure that things change for the better," said Hans 'Chici' Sy, President of SM Engineering Design and Development Corp.
The launch was held last October 23, and students ambassadors from various high schools in Metro Manila were given a tour around SM MOA complex that features sustainability efforts and disaster resiliency practices. The event then commenced at the SMX Convention Center with the formal introduction of YOUth are the Future and a simple pinning ceremony.
"Our journey is really about the race to resilience, as our climate changes, society is changing. Sustainability is our pathway to survival as a planet and that is what resilience is really about, the ability to withstand the impacts of the hazards that we know and those that we could face in the future," said DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga.
Sometime this November, the youth ambassadors will participate in a 3-day eco-camp at Pico De Loro Country Club where they will learn more about waste and energy management, resource optimization, and climate mitigation and adaptation strategies from some of the country's experts.
Expected output from the eco-camp is a Green Manifesto with plans on how to take action. There will also be a storybook module co-authored by all the participants. The programs also has a series of mall and school tours throughout Metro Manila to encourage more students to join.
"This visionary program embodies the transformative power of education and empowerment in shaping a more sustainable and resilient future. Taking advantage of this program will give you all a head start on becoming influential figures in creating a more sustainable and ecologically aware culture," said VP Sara Duterte in her message.
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