“My commitment is to use my voice as an educator to raise awareness on the true stories of conservation in the mountains of Iglit-Baco and how this compelling battle is everybody’s concern as Filipinos.”

1) What inspired you to share with your class your learnings from our Exploration?

It was during our Mts. Iglit-Baco exploration that I heard some of the most amazing and compelling stories of Filipinos. The same stories which I hope to use as a tool in tapping the interest of our youth – my Forestry students, in particular. When I became an educator, I committed to what I believe is an effective aid to my students – storytelling. I’ve believed in the power of storytelling ever since and having experienced the exploration, I think it’s one of the most remarkable days I want my students to hear.

Through the stories of the rangers, I want them to focus on their aspirations as future foresters (even if our subject focuses on Filipino language) and continue pursuing their found purpose just as how I found the greater meaning of life from the cause, to combat for what needs to be saved, to conserve what has to be kept ,and to share what has to be heard… that they may realize their social and national role as future foresters and common Filipinos.

2) What were their key takeaways?

One asked, with bright gleaming eyes, “Ilan na lang po ang natitira?” (referring to tamaraws in the wild.) when I shared Kalibasib’s story. They were even more stoked when they saw the photos.
They are interested with such explorations, eager to be educated and empowered. The most striking response in the lecture: “Ma’am, paano po makakapunta doon?” Something that tells us how they are interested to get involved.

More takeaways as more students get to hear about it!

3) What is your commitment to keep sharing the word about our tamaraws and the rangers?

My commitment is to use my voice as an educator to raise awareness on the true stories of conservation in the mountains of Iglit-Baco and how this compelling battle is everybody’s concern as Filipinos. All starting from home, to our professions until more people actually join this cause.