By Mikee Natinga Norico

CPU Biological Society joins the 1st Red Cross Youth National Climate Change Forum.

CPU Biological Society officers actively participated in the very first Red Cross Youth National Climate Change Forum 2024, held last June 25-27 at Goldberry Lite Hotel. The forum, themed “Climate Resilience: Empowering Communities and Sustaining Futures,” brought together RCY chapter leaders, organization representatives, and youth advocates from across the country.

The summit emphasized the crucial role young people play in mitigating the effects of climate change. Through informative sessions, delegates were able to identify and discuss environmental issues in their localities and prioritize key areas for action. This event aligns perfectly with the Red Cross’ spirit of channeling youthful energy into meaningful humanitarian efforts through volunteerism.

“We are not alone in this fight”: CPU Biological Society forms lasting connections at the Red Cross Youth National Climate Change Forum.

The Philippines faces undeniable challenges brought about by climate change, such as extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and ecological disruptions. As a result, the National Climate Change Forum highlighted the urgency of climate action. Speakers throughout the 3-day event stressed the importance of investing in sustainable solutions and effective resource management. Working with nature is crucial in mitigating climate impact, and the summit provided a platform for youth to engage in these vital discussions.

Mark Hendrix G. Lapac, President of the CPU Biological Society, expressed his admiration for the forum’s impact, stating, “The National Climate Change forum was an inspiring and impactful event as we witnessed passionate discussions on climate action, led by young advocates from different chapters of Red Cross Youth. The summit’s emphasis on the call for change and striving for local resilience will always ignite me to use my talents and capabilities for a sustainable future. Indeed, it is true that we can create a more sustainable and climate-conscious future for the Philippines if we collaborate and share.”

The forum provided a platform for youth leaders to engage deeply with the complexities of climate resilience, empowering them to lead initiatives in their communities. Participants left with a renewed commitment to fostering local resilience through volunteerism, a hallmark of the Red Cross spirit.

Lee Brian S. Pescuela, Secretary of the CPU Biological Society, echoed this sentiment, noting, “As the first-ever National Climate Change Forum (NCCF) 2024 has come to a close, the call for taking part in climate change action is further underscored and must be given high premium more than ever before. The 3-day national forum has awakened innumerable minds and ignited the fervor of RCY volunteers and invited organizations alike, all towards a noble cause. Aside from advancing humanitarian causes, the event also formed lasting friendships and cherishable memories among delegates, assuring each and everyone that they are not alone in this fight.”

The National Climate Change Forum is a pioneering step in galvanizing the youth of the Philippines towards active participation in climate action. With a shared vision and collaborative spirit, the forum concluded with a call to work together towards a resilient and climate-conscious nation.