Smart backs search for most eco-friendly, sustainable schools

PLDT wireless subsidiary Smart Communications is supporting anew the search for the most eco-friendly and sustainable schools in the Philippines. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is accepting nominations for the “2017 National Search for Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Schools” until April 28. Entries can come from public and private schools and universities, elementary to college levels.

“The competition seeks to encourage schools to become more actively involved in environmental issues at a practical and local level,” said Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) Assistant Director Jacqueline Caancan in a statement. “It recognizes academic institutions with the best eco-friendly programs and activities.”

“Smart supports the efforts of the government to raise environmental awareness among the youth,” said Ramon R. Isberto, Smart public affairs head. “Through this search, we hope not only to educate them about taking care of the environment but also help them realize the importance of being sustainable and resilient.”

Winners will be announced in November as part of the activities for the National Environmental Awareness Month and Clean Air Month.

This is the fifth leg of the bi-annual search, which began in 2009 and aims to increase environmental awareness among the youth, according to Caancan.

The competition is organized by DENR-EMB in cooperation with the Department of Education, Commission on Higher Education, Smart Communications, One Meralco Foundation and other partners.

Winners will receive cash prizes and plaques of recognition. For the national level, which consists of college, high school and elementary categories, the first prize is P50,000 for each category; second prize is P40,000 and third prize is P10,000. For the regional level, a certificate of recognition and P15,000 will be given to winners in each category.

Interested schools can register at sustainableschools.ph and submit their entries to their respective DepEd division or EMB regional offices. For more information, contact EMB-DENR at (02) 9284674 and (02) 3765610; email ecofriendlyschools@gmail.com, or visit emb.gov.ph, sustainableschools.ph, and facebook.com/EcoFriendlySchoolsPhilippines.

Smart has been working with the government and other partners to address the needs of the country in the areas of education and environment, as well as disaster preparedness, health and livelihood. One of its programs is a youth learning activity called the TNT Tropang Ready Disaster Preparedness Caravan which tours state universities and colleges nationwide.#