If we are counting on the youth to build a better tomorrow, they must first learn to value and care for nature today.
This summer season, from May to June 2026, Malampaya Foundation Inc. (MFI) successfully conducted a series of Environmental Youth Action Camps across its conservation sites in northern Palawan, Oriental Mindoro, and Batangas. The camps brought together approximately 240 young participants, providing them with meaningful opportunities to deepen their understanding of biodiversity, environmental protection, and responsible stewardship of natural resources.
Held over three to four days, each camp featured a combination of educational and interactive learning activities designed to inspire environmental awareness and action among the youth. Participants attended lectures on biodiversity and ecosystem services, explored current environmental threats, learned about relevant environmental laws and regulations, and discussed practical conservation measures that can be implemented in their communities.
A key component of the program was direct exposure to coastal and marine ecosystems, allowing participants to experience firsthand the habitats and natural resources that sustain both biodiversity and local livelihoods. Through guided field activities, the youth gained a deeper appreciation of the interconnectedness between healthy ecosystems and human well-being.
The camps also encouraged personal responsibility and leadership through commitment-setting exercises, where participants identified concrete actions they could take to support environmental conservation. Team presentations further strengthened collaboration, critical thinking, and communication skills while fostering a shared commitment to protecting natural resources.
MFI extends its sincere appreciation to its valued partners whose support contributed significantly to the success of the camps. These include the provincial governments, municipal and city agriculture offices, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) field offices, the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development (for the Palawan camps), the Oriental Mindoro Provincial Agriculture Office, MBCFI (for the Mindoro camp), the Bureau of Fire Protection, and the Philippine Red Cross.
By investing in environmental education and youth engagement, MFI continues to help cultivate a new generation of informed and empowered environmental stewards—young leaders who will play a vital role in safeguarding the country’s natural heritage for years to come.
