Justine Mae Berceles Carino
Baguio City — The University of the Cordilleras Gymnasium became the epicenter of sustainability-driven innovation on July 1, 2025, as the institution officially launched “Greenovation: Towards an Eco-Friendly UC.” With a theme deeply rooted in environmental consciousness, the university-wide initiative brought students, faculty, and administration together in a bold stride toward building a greener, zero-waste campus in line with global sustainable development goals.
The day began with a lively showcase of eco-initiatives during the morning booth exhibitions. From innovative upcycling projects to posters advocating waste segregation and renewable energy practices, the gymnasium brimmed with creativity and purpose. Student organizations and colleges displayed eco-campaigns and sustainable technologies, engaging visitors through interactive games, informative handouts, and giveaways of eco-kits that promoted daily habits aligned with green living.
Spearheading the entire Greenovation campaign was Dr. Rhodora A. Ngolob, Vice President of Administration and Student Services. Her strategic leadership transformed the event from a mere celebration of awareness into a clarion call for institutional and individual action. Under her guidance, Greenovation emerged not only as a milestone event but also as a framework for ongoing transformation.
In a spirited gesture that unified advocacy with campus culture, candidates and titleholders of Mr. and Ms. UC 2025, the esteemed 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), and Mr. Michael Anog (Mr. CAS), graced the occasion, amplifying the campaign’s reach through student leadership. The presence of Mr. and Ms. UC Green Warriors, Mr. Cildon Camti and Ms. Jenny Tumabang, as hosts, alongside titleholders including Ms. Natasha Morgan and Mr. Timothy Joshua Arcega, added both prestige and influence on the movement. Each candidate contributed by publicly declaring and signing personal Eco Pledges—concrete affirmations of their commitment to lead by example and promote sustainable practices within their spheres.
The momentum carried into the afternoon as the focus shifted to a series of expert-led seminars and workshops. The first session, titled “Green Moves: Greenovation in School Operation,” was delivered by Ms. Rhodora Ann N. Ontal. Her presentation underscored the significance of embedding sustainability within institutional frameworks, highlighting how campus operations—from administration to student life—can transform into models of eco-efficiency.
Further deepening the program, Mr. Clayton M. Langgato later took the stage with his presentation within the S123B room, “Strategic Sustainability Reporting Beyond Compliance.” He challenged the audience to view sustainability not as a matter of mere obligation but as an opportunity for authentic progress and accountability. His emphasis on transparent and strategic environmental reporting echoed the broader goals of the Greenovation campaign.
The final leg of the seminar series unfolded through two parallel workshops as well. In room N3004, Ms. Joycelyn P. Ituriaga discussed the critical intersections of Environmental Impact Assessment and Sustainable Resource Management in her talk, “Strategic Environmental Management: Empowering Sustainable Futures Through Informed Impact and Resource Stewardship.” Simultaneously in room F504, Ms. Ann L. Samonte offered her insights into sustainable entrepreneurship with “Research Methods in Sustainable Business in Relation to Greenovation,” encouraging young researchers to pursue innovation in eco-conscious business models.
Greenovation 2025 proved that sustainability is not an abstract ideal—it is a practical, collective endeavor. By integrating environmental cons academic and organizational systems, the University of the Cordilleras reaffirmed its dedication 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.
/jpi
