FEU has worked on the Tams 2 project alongside WWF-Philippines and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). Launched in 2012, the project looked to help restore the dwindling tamaraw population of Mts. Iglit-Baco, and to double their numbers by the year 2020. The tamaraw population now sits at 480 individuals as of the last count earlier this year, with calves and new populations spotted outside of Mts. Iglit-Baco indicating a resurgence of the endangered endemic buffalo. Support for the project continues to build as the target date draws closer.

NYC Chairpersons Kiana Porras and Romina Lim, and NYC Member Gab Mejia presented in front of elementary and high school students. They spoke about the tamaraw and the importance of conservation and biodiversity. “Appreciate the small things you see every day – the Maya birds, the giant trees that remain in the city. Once you appreciate the small things, you learn to love what’s out there, too,” said Mejia. A wildlife photographer and National Geographic Young Explorer himself, Mejia recognizes that young children may not always be able to encounter nature first-hand. By participating in the activities of and volunteering for environmental organizations, he continued, everyone can play a part in conservation.

“There’s this growing disconnect in the world today between man and nature. It’s up to us to make sure we make that connection while the children are young,” added Mejia. Mejia uses his photography to advocate for the reconnection between people and the natural world. His photos of tamaraws were featured at the TAMWorld open exhibit at Batangas Port late last month.