Joining the NYC were students from Beacon Academy and Assumption College, who helped conduct the activity, which opened with a read-along activity with the attending students of a book, entitled “Daloy ng Pag-asa.” Discussing the importance of proper waste management and the conservation of water, the book served as a basis for the rest of the activity. Show-and-tell activities discussed different kinds of plastic waste products and their effect on the environment, while an educational talk informed students on good practices for managing trash. Students then expressed their wishes for the environment through drawings, which they shared with the activity organizers.

“My hope is that these kids will keep in mind the waste hierarchy – that waste reduction should be their top priority,” says Romina Lim, WWF-Philippines National Youth Council Vice-Chairperson. WWF-Philippines recognizes the importance of investing in the youth in matters of conservation, and has sought out avenues to educate future generations on ways in which they can care for the environment.

“Caring for the environment means caring for ourselves,” reminded Kiana Porras, WWF-Philippines National Youth Council Chairperson as she addressed the students gathered.