On March 25, the Manresa School Junior High School Department, in collaboration with the Ugnayang Kalikasan Organization, embarked on an enriching outreach program themed“Simula sa Lupa.” More than just a mountain trek, it was a journey rooted in purpose, community engagement, and environmental stewardship.

The day began with an orientation led by Sir Dan Mark Geronimo (Vice President of Ugnayang Kalikasan) and Sir Paulo Cervantes (Executive Secretary), who introduced the vision for this meaningful partnership. With plans for future tree planting initiatives and environmental integration into student programs, the path ahead was clear: we start small, but we are heading in the right direction.

‎A brief stretching session set the tone for the trek to Biak na Bundok, located in Lipa City, Batangas—a trail that offered breathtaking 360° views of Region IV-A’s iconic mountains such as Banahaw, Makiling, Taal, and Sierra Madre. Along the way, the team conducted a clean-up drive, collecting 7–8 bags of trash filled with plastic bottles and wrappers left by previous visitors. Trash bags were also distributed to ascending trekkers to promote shared responsibility.

‎‎The group visited the future tree planting site in San Pablo, where land preparation is scheduled for the next visit. This project, supported by Ugnayang Kalikasan, sets the stage for future activities focused on reforestation and sustainability.

‎‎Descending from the mountain, the team visited the residents of Sitio PNB—also known as Paanan ng Bundok—in Brgy. Talisay, Lipa City, Batangas. Here, teachers led a joyful feeding program and dance challenge, bringing smiles and spreading kindness to the local children. Teachers reminded them to continue protecting and preserving their mountain.

‎The day ended with heartfelt reflections among the teachers. Sir Paulo emphasized the vital role of educators in shaping environmentally aware youth. He stated that “Being an environmentalist isn’t just scientific - it is also about caring for the community that depends on it.”Mr. Geronimo echoed this with a powerful message: ‎“This is only a small act, not to belittle it, but to inspire us to do even bigger ones. Make this your way of life.”

‎‎Rooted in the spirit of Laudato Si’, the teachers were reminded of their shared responsibility to care for humanity’s common home through consistent, small acts of love for creation and the communities that rely on it. This outreach is more than an activity; it is a call to action, a lifestyle, and a mission that the group will carry forward.

Video of the outreach activity: Project Punla_Phase 1.mp4 - Google Drive

By: Ms. Shiela Tagal