by Aivy Rose N. Villarba
The Ateneo de Davao University High School (AdDU-HS) unit was hailed as one of the recipients of the 2nd ASEAN Eco-School Award as part of the ASEAN Environment Year (AEY) 2015 celebration last July 29 to 30 at Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar.
AdDU-HS is the only secondary school in the Philippines to be given the award. Dubinan Elementary School of Santiago City, Isabela is primary school awardee.
Held every three years, the AEY celebration showcases the ASEAN commitment to environmental protection and environmental education.
Moreover, the 2nd ASEAN Eco-schools Award recognizes the exemplary efforts of the ten primary and secondary schools from ASEAN member states promoting environmental awareness in all aspects of education to the students and nearby communities.
As part of the Ateneo formation into men and women for others, students are taught to properly segregate waste, understand the workings of the environment, and reverence God’s creation.
“I think ASEAN is recognizing the school for taking our green initiatives to the next level when we launched the greening program called Ecoteneo in 2011,” Fr. Michael Pineda, SJ, said. As AdDU HS Principal, Pineda represented the school to the Myanmar awarding ceremonies.
An ongoing program, Ecoteneo began by implementing the school’s own Ecological Solid Waste Management plan in accordance with Republic Act 9003.
Meanwhile, AdDU-HS was also one of the national champions in the 2013 National Search for Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Schools organized by the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB), an attached agency of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
Ateneo de Davao University is a Filipino, Catholic and Jesuit University in Southern Mindanao. A premier University, its tradition of excellence is evident in its strong programs of study, relevant research, and commitment to integrating environmental awareness and involvement in its instruction. To learn more, visit www.addu.edu.ph or send an e-mail to contactus@addu.edu.ph.