The Municipal Government of Itogon, through the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO), officially launched its first month-long Environment Month celebration at the Fianza Memorial Gymnasium on June 3, 2025. The event carried the theme “Our Environment, Our Future: Ending Plastic Pollution.”
Municipal Administrator Arnel F. Bahingawan emphasized the LGU’s continued commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development.
OIC-MENR Officer Jones B. Bauzon Jr. highlighted that this marks the first official month-long celebration of Environment Month by the LGU, setting a precedent for future advocacy and community participation in environmental protection.
The event’s guest speaker, Dr. Kenneth A. Lauran, President of Benguet State University and a well-known environmental advocate, delivered an insightful lecture on the critical role of green spaces—such as parks, gardens, forests, and recreational areas—in promoting public health. “Forests and green spaces are essential for improving both physical and mental well-being,” Dr. Lauran said, urging the LGU to incorporate green spaces into its Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP).
Engr. Jean Borromeo, Regional Director of the Environmental Management Bureau – Cordillera Administrative Region (EMB-CAR), praised the efforts of LGU Itogon and emphasized that environmental protection is a shared responsibility. “It is not the sole job of one agency. Government, private sector, civil society, indigenous communities, and every citizen must work together,” she stated.
Representatives from the Mines and Geosciences Bureau – CAR (MGB-CAR) led by Benigno Cesar L. Espejo, and the Benguet Environment and Natural Resources Office (BENRO) led by Julius Kollin, also graced the event, extending messages of commendation and support.
A key highlight of the launch was the inter-barangay jingle competition, where representatives from Itogon’s nine barangays showcased original jingles aligned with the theme of ending plastic pollution. The winners were:
* 1st Place: Barangay Poblacion
* 2nd Place: Barangay Loacan
* 3rd Place: Barangay Virac
Mayor Bernard S. Waclin commended all participants for their creativity and commitment to the environment. Vice Mayor Dante Alain Xavier D. Godio echoed the appreciation, highlighting the importance of community participation in building a sustainable future for Itogon.
The month-long celebration aims to raise awareness, build partnerships, and foster community action toward a cleaner and more sustainable Itogon. Various activities, including clean-up drives, educational forums, and tree-planting events, are scheduled throughout June.
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