Story by Mdpn. Kiann Marteen Baldo
Photos from Save Philippine Seas

Midshipman Christian Sapalo, an incoming third-year student from John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University (Arevalo), Inc., was among 35 youth leaders who participated in an in-person workshop of the Generation of Sea and Earth Advocates (Gen SEA) project in Cordova, Cebu, last May 24-30, 2025.

The Gen SEA is a program of Save Philippine Seas (SPS) funded by the French Embassy to the Philippines and Micronesia, designed to strengthen Filipino youth leadership and entrepreneurial skills—enabling them to lead environmental conservation-related projects in their respective communities.

From 601 applicants nationwide, 80 youth leaders were initially chosen; however, another cut was made by the SPS until the final list of 35 youth leaders was released and secured all-expenses-paid trips for the Gen SEA workshop.

The workshop involved learning and gaining knowledge about the coastal marine ecosystems, snorkeling education, forums, and panel discussions.

Moreover, the participants also had the opportunity to pitch projects and the chance to receive funding for their ideas.

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