By: Justine Mae Berceles Carino

Supporting Global Goals for Sustainable Development

The Greenovation: Towards an Eco-Friendly UC campaign aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

• SDG 4: Quality Education (Indicator 4.7.1 – Ensure learners acquire knowledge and skills for sustainable development) Through seminars and workshops that promote environmental literacy and responsible citizenship.
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities (Indicator 11.6.1 – Reduce environmental impact through waste management and awareness) By encouraging zero-waste practices and eco-friendly campus operations.
• SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production (Indicator 12.5.1 – Substantially reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling, and reuse) Through student-led upcycling projects and eco-campaigns.
• SDG 13: Climate Action (Indicator 13.3.1 – Improve education and awareness on climate change mitigation and adaptation) Via expert-led discussions and institutional pledges for sustainability.
• SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals (Indicator 17.17.1 – Promote multi-stakeholder collaboration for sustainable development) Through cross-sector engagement among students, faculty, and administration.

Baguio City, Philippines — July 1, 2025

The University of the Cordilleras Gymnasium became the epicenter of sustainability-driven innovation as UC officially launched “Greenovation: Towards an Eco-Friendly UC.” With a theme deeply rooted in environmental consciousness, the university-wide initiative united students, faculty, and administrators in a bold stride toward building a greener, zero-waste campus.

Eco-Initiatives in Action

The day began with a vibrant booth exhibition showcasing student-led eco-projects. From upcycled materials to renewable energy posters and interactive games, the gymnasium was filled with creativity and purpose. Colleges and organizations distributed eco-kits and handouts promoting sustainable habits, reinforcing the campaign’s message of everyday environmental responsibility.

Leadership and Advocacy

Spearheading the campaign was Dr. Rhodora A. Ngolob, Vice President of Administration and Student Services, whose strategic leadership elevated Greenovation from a one-day event to a long-term institutional movement.

Adding prestige and influence were candidates and titleholders of Mr. and Ms. UC 2025, including:

• Ms. Natasha Morgan (Ms. UC 2025) Mr. Timothy Joshua Arcega (Mr. Green Jaguar 2025) Ms. Katrina Sandhu (Ms. Green Jaguar 2025) Ms. Alesandra Cuaresma (Ms. UC – 2nd Runner-Up) Mr. John Walter Neri (Mr. UC – 1st Runner-Up) Mr. Harry Gonzales (Mr. SHS – Grade 12) Mr. Crisanto Manguerra Jr. (Mr. CON) Ms. Bea Relveria (Ms. CAS) Mr. Michael Anog (Mr. CAS)

Together with Mr. Cildon Camti and Ms. Jenny Tumabang, the official UC Green Warriors, these student leaders signed personal Eco Pledges, committing to lead by example in promoting sustainable practices.

Expert-Led Seminars and Workshops

The afternoon featured a series of impactful sessions:

• “Green Moves: Greenovation in School Operation” by Ms. Rhodora Ann N. Ontal

• “Strategic Sustainability Reporting Beyond Compliance” by Mr. Clayton M. Langgato

• “Strategic Environmental Management: Empowering Sustainable Futures Through Informed Impact and Resource Stewardship” by Ms. Joycelyn P. Ituriaga

• “Research Methods in Sustainable Business in Relation to Greenovation” by Ms. Ann L. Samonte

These sessions explored sustainability in education, operations, entrepreneurship, and environmental reporting—equipping attendees with the tools to drive meaningful change.

Lighting the Green Flame

Greenovation 2025 proved that sustainability is not an abstract ideal—it is a practical, collective endeavor. By integrating environmental consciousness into academic and organizational systems, UC reaffirmed its commitment to shaping a community where innovation meets responsibility.

The green flame has been lit. Now, it is up to every Jaguar to keep it burning.

UCiansLead #Greenovation2025 #SDG4 #SDG11 #SDG12 #SDG13 #SDG17 #TatakUC #yesUCan

Edited by: jpi