DENR engages Aklan youth in environmental education

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The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 6 has reinforced its commitment to environmental conservation through an educational initiative targeting young children in Aklan.

On July 18, 2024, the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) of Aklan conducted a “Dalaw Turo” session, a unique non-formal educational program designed to raise awareness about environmental conservation among the youth.

The event, led by Provincial ENR Officer Merlene P. Aborka, brought together 85 children from various Child Development Centers (CDCs) in Brgy. Andagao, Kalibo, Aklan.

The program included an interactive lecture, audio-visual presentations, and environmental games that focused on the basic functions of land, air, water, and wildlife.

Special emphasis was placed on the importance of the mangrove ecosystem, a critical natural resource for the local community residing near the mangrove areas.

“We, at the PENRO Aklan, are grateful for the participation of our youths in our Dalaw Turo team. They may be small and young, but we believe that they can reach greater heights in the future,” said PENRO Aborka, expressing optimism about the impact of these educational efforts.

DENR 6 OIC-Regional Executive Director Raul L. Lorilla also praised the initiative, emphasizing the importance of engaging the youth in environmental conservation.

“We commend our Dalaw Turo Team from across the region in bridging the DENR to the public, especially the youths. We have a long way to go, but with these tiny steps, we can achieve our goal to preserve, conserve, and maintain the environment and natural resources for present and future generations,” Lorilla stated.

The “Dalaw Turo” program, derived from the Filipino words meaning “to visit” and “to teach,” exemplifies DENR’s innovative approach to environmental education. By targeting young minds, the initiative aims to foster a generation that is more conscious of their role in protecting and conserving the environment.