The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) and the Department of Energy (DOE), in collaboration with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), recently held a nationwide campus caravan at the Columban College-Barretto, Inc., Olongapo City, Zambales.
Held on June 3, the activity sought to raise awareness on energy efficiency and conservation among the youth and inspire them to become advocates for sustainable practices in their communities.
In her message on the Role of Communications on Fostering Sustainability in the Philippines, PCO Director Faith de Guia said “the urgency of our environmental challenges calls for unity and collaboration.”
“Through collective actions in energy efficiency, we can bring about long-term change,” De Guia said.
Patrick Aquino, director at DOE, said practicing energy efficiency and conservation is not just a responsibility.
“It is our moral obligation that can transform generations. Each action we take no matter how small, has the power to create a ripple effect of positive change,” he added.
On the other hand, Nelson Jay Abuyo, faculty member at the Columban College-Baretto Inc. called for endeavors that inspire the youth to support sustainable programs.
“Through interactive activities like quiz bee and poster making contest, we are not only educating our students about energy-efficiency but also encouraging them to become proactive advocates for sustainable practices,” he said.
Meanwhile, Daniel Collin Jornales, officer-in-charge Science Research Specialist at the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Program Management and Technology Promotion Division (EPMPD) of DOE, said students would be the future of energy efficiency and conservation in the country.
“Kasi kayo yung bata. Kayo yung next generation ng professionals. Kayo yung next generation ng country. So kayo yung magiging boss, manager, supervisor, or presidente. So kayo yung mag i-instill ng programs or projects that will ensure cost efficiency for all,” Jornales, also one of the resource speakers for the event, said.
Lectures were made during the occasion. They were given by Vittorio Leif Ericson Santos and Mara Camille Galos. Both lecturers are Science Research Specialist II at DOE.
Further, a quiz bee and poster making contest were conducted. Cash prizes were awarded to winners. Topics discussed in the contests were Energy Efficiency and Conservation; Renewable Energy; Emerging Technology; Sustainability; Resiliency; and Water Efficiency.
The theme of the contest was “Energy Conservation,” emphasizing the importance of saving energy and promoting sustainable practices.
Booths were also set up by the PCO, DOE and USAID. The DOE also conducted an energy audit together with the Columban College students. PND