By Mikee Natinga Norico
(From left to right): Wilfred Dorilag (Videographer), Girly M. Amante (Punong Barangay), Lady Kyla Balibagoso (BSEM student and CPU-CARES Governor), Joan May Arostique (Barangay Treasurer), Orchid Sevilla (MRF Caretaker), Marilou Francisco (Mother), and Jasper Angelo Chin Nobleza (Videographer) pose for a group photo, highlighting their united effort toward environmental sustainability.
Lady Kyla Balibagoso, a fourth-year BS Environmental Management (BSEM) student and Governor of the Central Philippine University – College of Agriculture, Resources, and Environmental Sciences (CPU-CARES), has brought pride to the university as one of the Top 5 Finalists in the prestigious “Circular Stories Programme” by Circular Cities Asia. Her entry, “The Collective Power of Community: Protecting Tagubanhan Island,” highlights a transformative initiative called BARTER BASURA, implemented on Tagubanhan Island in Ajuy, Iloilo.
The BARTER BASURA program is an innovative solution to plastic waste management on Tagubanhan Island. Under this initiative, the island’s 1,063 residents trade plastic waste for essential goods such as rice, coffee, and school supplies. This system not only promotes proper waste segregation but also fosters environmental responsibility within the community.
Balibagoso’s story illustrates the power of grassroots circular economy models to drive change, where convenience is redefined for ecological sustainability. “They inspired me to make their story impactful,” she shared, reflecting on her collaboration with the resilient islanders.
Her achievement underscores the immense power of storytelling, especially when co-created with the community. By weaving the experiences of Tagubanhan Island into her narrative, she amplifies the significance of grassroots efforts in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), 13 (Climate Action), 14 (Life Below Water), and 15 (Life on Land). Her story serves as a reminder that every voice can inspire action and foster positive environmental change.
Circular Cities Asia (CCA) is a social enterprise committed to advancing circular economic innovations across Asia. Through its Circular Stories Programme, CCA empowers Southeast Asian youth to craft compelling narratives that showcase local circular economy initiatives. These stories highlight the importance of sustainable development and ecosystem preservation.
Balibagoso’s journey from June to September 2024 included mentorship from sustainability experts such as Lillygol Sedaghat, a National Geographic Explorer, and Dev Albao, Trustee of the Association of Young Environmental Journalists. This experience enabled her to refine her storytelling skills while spotlighting the environmental triumphs of Tagubanhan Island.
Her advocacy for sustainability stems from years of dedicated service and achievement. She has represented CPU in the Scranton International Essay Contest and earned recognition in the 3RProMar Project Pitching Competition, where her team secured a spot among the top three. Her consistent achievements underscore her commitment to driving meaningful change for the planet.
As Balibagoso celebrates her recognition in the Circular Stories Programme, she remains focused on inspiring others to act for a sustainable future. “If you have a story, trust your voice and tell it,” she encourages, highlighting the transformative power of storytelling. Her journey demonstrates the immense potential of communities and the importance of youth-driven initiatives in addressing environmental challenges.
Balibagoso’s achievement reflects Central Philippine University’s commitment to producing socially responsible leaders dedicated to environmental stewardship. The university congratulates Lady Kyla Balibagoso for her outstanding work and looks forward to her continued contributions to sustainability and community empowerment.
For more information about Lady Kyla’s story, kindly click the link.
https://web.facebook.com/share/p/14hv66CDYH1/
Watch the short documentary here: https://www.circularcities.asia/…/protecting-tagubanhan…