On May 16 to 19 2016, Woodland Bike Park in Sibunag and the JBLFMU Eco Park became the venues for the first ever JBLFMU Eco Adventure Summer Camp: A Climate Change Initiative.

The Summer Camp is the brainchild of the Community and Extension Services, spearheaded by CES officer, Mary Mar Esmaña with the cooperation of the Research Department under Dr. Melchor Magramo.

50 student leaders from different high schools in Guimaras participated in the three and a half day camp together with selected student leaders from the institution’s Molo, Arevalo and Bacolod campuses.

 The three and a half day camp was jampacked with eco-themed activities ranging from lectures on arts and crafts, leadership, climate change awareness and recycling to outdoor activities like swimming, sea grass inspection and mangrove identification, talent night and more. The highlight of the camp’s activities was the Amazing Race that stretched over the entire expanse of the Eco Park with campers racing from one station to the other that brought them to the different beautiful locations inside the park.

 The campers’ experience was further enriched by the presence of American Peace Corps volunteer facilitators together with Camp Director Riza Ornos. CES Canadian interns Emily Goldney and Tanner Field functioned as head organizers with Emily taking charge of conceptualizing the system and flow of activities for the camp.

 The Eco-Adventure Summer Camp is slated to be a yearly activity of the CES department starting next year.

The Johb B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University (JBLFMU) shall once again be hosting its Eco-Adventure Camp this summer from May 23, to 26, 2017 at the JBLFMU Eco Park in Nueva Valencia, Guimaras.  

The Eco-Adventure Camp which premiered successfully last year, is a brainchild of the JBLFMU Community Extension Services (CES) Office in connection with the university’s policy to maintain the highest standards for Heath, Safety, and Environmental protection.

This year, the summer camp aims to create awareness for environmental protection and conservation by exposing them to lectures and activities that expose them to workings of ecological sustainability in the hopes that campers will be mobilized to come up with their own environmental management initiatives. Specifically, it will expose the campers to marine protection as the Igang Bay Marine Sanctuary is but a part of the Eco-park.

The camp is open to selected student leaders from different high schools of Iloilo City, Bacolod, and Guimaras Provinces. This year 30 will come from the secondary schools in Guimaras, 15 from Iloilo City while 5 from Bacolod City. The campers are expected to actively engage in a jam-packed set of environmental activities that they can replicate in their communities and practice in their daily lives. 

The John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University (JBLFMU) successfully conducted its Second Eco-Adventure Camp on May 23–26, 2017, themed “Youth for Environmental Protection and Preservation.” The four-day camp brought together youth leaders to deepen environmental awareness, strengthen stewardship values, and translate learning into concrete community action.

A key highlight of the camp was the strong partnership with Atria Park Iloilo, which provided an urban platform for experiential learning and public engagement. Following the camp, participants showcased their creativity and advocacy through trash-to-art installations displayed at Atria Park District, promoting waste reduction and environmental responsibility. In addition, urban gardening initiatives were established in the same area, demonstrating sustainable food practices within an urban setting.

As a major output, campers developed community-based project proposals, which they committed to implement in their respective communities. These initiatives showcased camp’s success in empowering youth as proactive environmental advocates and partners in sustainable development.

A planning meeting for the Trash-to-Art and Urban Gardening Project was successfully conducted to prepare for the implementation of upcoming environmental initiatives. The meeting focused on aligning project goals, clarifying roles and responsibilities, and finalizing activity timelines. Key discussions included the conceptualization of trash-to-art installations that promote waste reduction and creativity, as well as the establishment of urban gardening activities to encourage sustainable food practices in an urban setting. Participants also discussed site preparation, materials sourcing, and community involvement strategies. The meeting concluded with a shared commitment among partners and participants to collaboratively transform waste into art and develop green spaces that inspire environmental awareness and responsible stewardship.

On May 23-26, 2017 the 2nd JBLFMU Eco-Adventure Camp with a themed “Environmental Management and Protection” was successfully conducted. The camp was participated in by the selected students from private and public high schools in Iloilo City and Guimaras and is sponsored by government agencies/units and private companies whose main thrusts are also environmental advocacies. Its main purpose was to create young eco-warriors who champion environmental awareness and preservation in schools and community.

The success of the 2017 Eco Adventure Camp has resulted in two offshoot projects: Trash to Art and Urban Gardening project which will both be launched on July 29, 2017, 5PM and will be participated in by the campers as practical application of the knowledge learned during the camp.

This activity will be hosted by JBLFMU Community Extension Services in partnership with Atria Mall Iloilo and with the technical assistance from EarthingPH.

Following the successful conduct of the 2nd JBLFMU Eco-Adventure Camp held on May 23–26, 2017, the Trash-to-Art and Urban Gardening Projects were formally launched on July 29, 2017, at Atria Mall Iloilo. The activity served as a concrete application of the environmental concepts and values instilled during the camp, translating learning into meaningful action.

The launch brought together Eco-Adventure Camp participants, partners, and advocates in a collaborative effort to promote environmental responsibility and sustainability. Campers actively took part in the installation of trash-to-art exhibits, creatively transforming recyclable materials into artworks that conveyed strong environmental messages. Simultaneously, the urban gardening component showcased sustainable gardening practices suited for urban spaces, encouraging food security and green living.

The activity was spearheaded by JBLFMU Community Extension Services, in partnership with Atria Mall Iloilo, with technical assistance from EarthingPH. The project launch reaffirmed JBLFMU’s commitment to youth empowerment and environmental stewardship, while strengthening partnerships that support sustainable community-based initiatives.

Preparations for the 3rd Eco-Adventure Camp are underway, reflecting the commitment of the organizers to environmental education and youth empowerment. This year, the camp aims to train and empower young eco-warriors to become advocates of positive change in their communities.

The program is designed to raise awareness and educate participants on marine and environmental management, exposing them to practical activities that promote sustainability, protection, and preservation. Campers will gain hands-on experience and learn responsible environmental practices they can apply in daily life and replicate in their communities.

The camp is organized by JBLFMU CES and DENR R6, with technical assistance from EarthingPH. Planning involves program development, activity design, and logistics coordination to ensure meaningful learning outcomes aligned with environmental advocacy goals.

The 3rd Eco-Adventure Camp will be held on May 2–5, 2018, offering a transformative experience for all participants.

The 3rd Eco-Adventure Camp, held on May 2–5, 2018, successfully empowered young eco-warriors to become advocates of environmental protection. Organized by JBLFMU CES and DENR R6, with technical support from EarthingPH, the camp offered a range of activities focused on marine and environmental management, sustainability, and ecological preservation.

Participants actively engaged in hands-on activities, seminars, and community-based projects, gaining practical knowledge and skills to apply in their daily lives and local communities. The camp fostered teamwork, leadership, and environmental awareness among the youth.

Feedback from campers highlighted increased understanding of environmental issues, motivation to adopt sustainable practices, and enthusiasm to replicate learned activities in their communities. The camp successfully met its objectives of education, empowerment, and advocacy, leaving a lasting impact on participants and promoting a culture of environmental stewardship.

Former participants of the 3rd JBLFMU Eco-Adventure Camp successfully secured Php 50,000 in funding during the Project Pitching Event held at the Municipality of Buenavista, Guimaras. The awarded funds will support the implementation of their “Scraps to Crafts” project, a community-based initiative originally developed during the camp as part of their major outputs.

The project promotes environmental sustainability by transforming recyclable materials into creative and functional crafts, encouraging waste reduction while fostering local entrepreneurship. Campers presented their proposals to municipal officials, demonstrating the practicality and community impact of their ideas.

This achievement highlights the continued empowerment of JBLFMU Eco-Adventure Camp alumni as eco-champions, capable of turning knowledge and creativity into tangible solutions for environmental management. The Municipality of Buenavista’s support further strengthens partnerships that encourage youth-led initiatives and sustainable community development.

The “Scraps to Crafts” project, initiated by former participants of the 3rd JBLFMU Eco-Adventure Camp headed by Mr. Jay Lord Saplagio, was successfully implemented on October 18, 2028 following their Php50,000 funding win during the Project Pitching Event at the Municipality of Buenavista, Guimaras. The project aimed to promote environmental sustainability by transforming recyclable materials into creative and functional crafts, while raising awareness on proper waste management.

During implementation, campers and other youth members conducted workshops and hands-on activities in local schools and communities, teaching participants how to creatively repurpose scrap materials. These activities not only encouraged recycling and waste reduction but also enhanced community engagement and youth participation in environmental initiatives.

The project successfully achieved its objectives by producing a variety of crafts from recycled materials, fostering environmental consciousness, and empowering participants with skills for sustainable living. The support from the Municipality of Buenavista, alongside guidance from JBLFMU Community Extension Services, ensured smooth execution and impactful outcomes.

The success of “Scraps to Crafts” demonstrates the lasting effect of JBLFMU Eco-Adventure Camp in nurturing young eco-leaders who translate learning into tangible community action.

The 4th JBLFMU Eco-Adventure Camp is set to take place on May 27–29, 2019, bringing together youth leaders from Iloilo and Guimaras to engage in environmental education and advocacy. The camp is being actively supported by PENRO Guimaras, EarthingPH, and Jollibee Foods Corporation, ensuring that participants have access to expert guidance, resources, and a meaningful learning environment.

Preparations for the camp include the finalization of environmental workshops, team-building activities, and community-based projects that will allow campers to apply their learning practically. Emphasis is placed on creating young eco-champions who can contribute to sustainable development and environmental stewardship in their schools and communities.

With the theme “Goals for a Better Tomorrow,” the camp seeks to empower youth to take proactive steps in environmental protection, fostering awareness, creativity, and action. The combined support of government agencies, private organizations, and environmental advocates guarantees a well-rounded and impactful experience for all participants.

The 4th JBLFMU Eco-Adventure Camp, held on May 27–29, 2019, was successfully conducted with strong support from PENRO Guimaras, EarthingPH, and Jollibee Foods Corporation. The three-day camp gathered youth leaders from Iloilo and Guimaras to engage in environmental education, experiential learning, and community-focused projects.

Participants actively took part in workshops, team-building exercises, and hands-on activities designed to enhance environmental awareness and stewardship. Campers applied their learning through practical projects, including waste management initiatives and creative environmental advocacy campaigns. These activities reinforced the values of sustainability, creativity, and community engagement.

The camp successfully achieved its objectives by empowering youth as eco-champions, ready to implement environmental projects in their schools and communities. The collaboration with government agencies, private organizations, and environmental advocates ensured a meaningful, well-organized, and impactful experience for all participants.

The success of the camp reflects JBLFMU’s continued commitment to youth-led environmental action and sustainable community development.

The 5th JBLFMU Eco-Adventure Camp, originally scheduled for April 14–17, 2020 at the JBLFMU Ecological Park, has been postponed in response to the COVID-19 outbreak and in compliance with health and safety guidelines.

The decision prioritizes the well-being of all participants, facilitators, and partners while ensuring the camp can be conducted in a safe and responsible manner. JBLFMU CES remains committed to empowering youth eco-warriors and will announce the rescheduled dates once the situation permits safe gatherings.

We thank all participants, partners, and stakeholders for their understanding and continued support.

The 5th JBLFMU Eco-Adventure Camp, set for May 2023, is back - ready to inspire and train the next generation of youth eco-leaders. The Event Committee recently convened its first planning meeting, laying the groundwork for interactive workshops, hands-on activities, and innovative environmental projects designed to provide an engaging and immersive learning experience.

The camp’s objective is to equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and motivation to champion environmental protection, sustainability, and climate resilience. Young eco-warriors, prepare for an exciting journey of learning, action, and community impact!

The 5th JBLFMU Eco-Adventure Camp was successfully conducted with the invaluable support of key partners, including the Municipal Local Government of Nueva Valencia, Guimaras, DENR-PENRO Guimaras, GENRO, EarthingPH, DENR-6, and MIWD. Their dedication, expertise, and resources were instrumental in planning and executing the camp, providing 52 participants with a comprehensive and immersive environmental experience.

Through their collaboration, educational workshops, nature excursions, and sustainability initiatives were effectively implemented, fostering awareness, responsibility, and stewardship among the youth. The active engagement of partners during both planning and the camp itself added credibility, inspiration, and energy to the event.

Campers demonstrated commendable enthusiasm, participating in waste management simulations, eco-craft workshops, and nature-based activities, reflecting the impact of guided environmental education. The partnership between JBLFMU CES and these agencies showed a shared commitment to cultivating youth leaders and promoting sustainable practices. The success of the camp is a testament to collective dedication to environmental conservation and education.

Featuring inspiring testimonies from Eco-Adventure Camp alumni who share their journeys, lessons learned, and continued commitment to environmental stewardship, youth leadership, and sustainable action within their communities.

Dear Eco-Warriors,

As valued participants of the Eco-Adventure Camp, your experience and insights are essential in helping us assess the impact of our program. We kindly invite you to spare 10 minutes of your time to complete our Impact Assessment Form.

Your feedback will play a vital role in shaping the future of the Eco-Adventure Camp, allowing us to improve, strengthen, and further adapt our initiatives to better serve young environmental advocates like you.

Deadline: March 25, 2024
Click the link to share your feedback:

https://docs.google.com/.../1FAIpQLSeEjjFNTf.../formResponse 

Thank you for your continued support, commitment, and dedication to environmental stewardship. Together, we grow stronger as eco-warriors working for a more sustainable future.

Committee members from JBLFMU, DENR–PENRO Guimaras, GENRO, and MENRO of the Municipality of Nueva Valencia convened at the JBLFMU Ecological Park on March 15, 2024 to finalize plans for the upcoming 6th Eco-Adventure Camp, scheduled on May 8–11, 2024.

The meeting focused on program structure, activity alignment, and logistical preparations to ensure the successful conduct of the camp. Guided by the theme “Preserving Our Planet: Empowering Sustainable Communities,” discussions emphasized youth engagement, environmental education, and community-based sustainability initiatives.

The collaborative planning session highlighted the strong partnership among academic institutions and environmental agencies, reaffirming their shared commitment to environmental protection and youth empowerment. The meeting concluded with agreed action points and responsibilities, setting a clear direction for the effective implementation of the 6th Eco-Adventure Camp.

The 2024 JBLFMU Eco-Adventure Camp, spearheaded by the John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University–Community Extension Services (JBLFMU CES), was successfully implemented with the participation of 53 youth leaders from 22 schools across Guimaras, Iloilo, and Bacolod. The camp served as a dynamic platform for experiential learning, environmental education, and youth empowerment.

Through hands-on activities, guided discussions, and nature-based learning experiences, participants enhanced their understanding of environmental issues, conservation, and sustainable practices. The active involvement of partner agencies, including local government units, national government agencies, and non-government organizations, strengthened program delivery and ensured meaningful engagement.

Post-camp evaluations reflected highly positive feedback, particularly on the relevance of objectives, effectiveness of activities, and professionalism of organizers. Participants demonstrated increased environmental awareness, advocacy, and commitment to implementing sustainable initiatives within their schools and communities. Generally, the 2024 Eco-Adventure Camp effectively achieved its objectives of cultivating environmentally responsible youth leaders and reinforcing collaborative action toward sustainable community development.