Roots and Reefs: A Noble Call for Sustainable Action
By Yllaine Jacline Cano | The Paulinian
St. Paul University Manila hosted the "Roots and Reefs: Sustaining the Future" seminar-workshop on March 21, 2025, emphasizing the connection between agriculture, fisheries, and environmental sustainability. Led by Sophia Nicole Cinco and Scott Rivera, the event encouraged students to recognize their role in building a greener future.
The event opened with an inspiring prayer, led by Mr. Paulinian Ambassador 2024, Zul Tanggawohn, followed by a stirring rendition of the Philippine National Anthem. Ms. Judith Alderete, Student Affairs Head, officially welcomed everyone with heartfelt remarks, describing the event as “a noble endeavor,” a testament to the university’s commitment to fostering meaningful change.
The first speaker, Atty. Aaron Pedrosa, Legal Team Head of the Philippine Movement for Climate Justice and Secretary-General of Sanlakas, delivered an eye-opening discussion titled “Why Climate Justice?” He emphasized that climate justice goes beyond mere climate action; it is about recognizing the urgency of the climate emergency. He shed light on how vulnerable communities suffer the most from environmental degradation and why systemic change is essential to protect people and the planet.
After a quick icebreaker to engage the audience, the second speaker, Mr. Ronnie Manalo, Secretary-General of Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas, took the stage. A dedicated advocate for farmers’ rights, he painted a vivid picture of the struggles faced by farmers and fishermen, from land grabbing to red-tagging, and reminded students of the vital role these sectors play in ensuring food security and national progress.
The event was not all talk. Students actively participated in two interactive workshops. Participants crafted fishing lures from bottle caps (tanzans) and plant pots from recycled bottles, blending creativity with sustainability. The best outputs were recognized, but more importantly, all finished products were donated to charities supporting environmental and community welfare.
As the day drew to a close, Ms. Judith Alderete returned to the stage with the organizing committee to present certificates of appreciation to the speakers, acknowledging their unwavering dedication to the cause. The event concluded on an uplifting note with final words from Ricci Madridejos and Gab Garces, Mr. and Ms. Paulinian Ambassadors 2025. A closing prayer from Ms. Paulinian Ambassador 2024, Trisha Mae San Jose, and a lively group photo capped the day.
Roots and Reefs was more than just a seminar; it was a call to action. As Ms. Alderete so aptly said, it was “a noble event” that ignited a sense of responsibility among students to champion environmental sustainability and support those who work tirelessly to feed our nation. The event left a lasting reminder: true change begins when knowledge transforms into action, and the Paulinian community is ready to answer that call.
