UBLC launches Environmental Sustainability Initiative

The University of Batangas-Lipa City (UBLC), in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (DENR-CENRO), with the Community Extension Services Office's initiative, launched “UBians Punla Para sa Kalikasan," marking the university’s dedication to fostering a greener future through education, community involvement, and action, Oct. 21.

UB President Lily Marlene J. Hernandez-Bohn expressed the event’s deeper purpose: “We are not merely planting seeds on the ground; we are advocating this activity to increase awareness and concerns for our environment,” inspiring action, and highlighting our responsibility to preserve nature for future generations.

Ricardo B. Libon of DENR-CENRO shared alarming statistics on Lipa City’s environment. The city generates 170–180 tons of waste daily, with critical areas like Levitown suffering from transport-related air pollution. Water quality is also declining, with only 5 of 25 sectors rated satisfactory and just 6 of 26 springs remaining active. The Punla initiative supports DENR-CENRO’s goal of planting 100,000 trees by 2024, a target that is far from being met.

UBLC’s CES Office, led by External Program Coordinator Apolinario Maranan, integrates tree-planting into the university’s sustainability mission, requiring 70% of graduating students to participate annually. Maranan also stressed the urgent need to protect water sources, which are increasingly at risk due to development and climate change, particularly as some areas in Lipa that were once cold can no longer be replenished.

A research initiative that would examine the differences between traditional crops like cacao and kape is conducted as an extension to Punla in hopes of reviving the original kape of Lipa City. According to Maranan, once the area in Bulacnin is identified, it will be a valuable contribution to the community, supporting both livelihoods and efforts to address deforestation.

“I think requiring graduating students to plant a tree is truly a great idea. It helps us give back to the environment and create a lasting impact.” Jamaica, a fourth-year BS Psychology student, shared her thoughts on the new requirement.

One of the highlights of the day was the ceremonial oath taken by the UBLC students, faculty, and staff, pledging their dedication as Nature Advocates. Following the oath, participants took part in a symbolic seed planting activity, setting the stage for a greener campus. A ribbon-cutting ceremony officially launched the UBian Seedling Nursery, located beside the Industrial Engineering workshop facility.

Participants further demonstrated their commitment by signing a pledge board, with each signature or thumbprint symbolizing an individual’s promise to uphold environmental values. This act fostered a collective sense of purpose, uniting attendees under the shared mission of environmental advocacy.

To ensure the longevity of the initiative, CES is actively collaborating with the school’s gardener, CES coordinators, and faculty members, “Kaya mahalaga sakin din yung participation ng faculty na may puso sa environment, na gabayan nila to guide yung mga 4th year students at iba pa.”

As UBLC continues its journey toward sustainability, the university community is encouraged to actively participate in future environmental initiatives. The success of “UBians Punla Para sa Kalikasan” highlights the power of collaboration, with the CES office leading the initiative, supported by the whole community of the institution. Together, they have created a unified effort that not only promotes environmental awareness but also inspires the campus and surrounding communities to take action to protect the planet. This initiative serves as a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility we all share in nurturing and preserving the environment for future generations.