The JBLFMU Eco-Adventure Camp, spearheaded by the John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University–Community Extension Services, is a flagship environmental education program established in 2016. Designed to foster environmental awareness, stewardship, and sustainable practices, the camp provides immersive, hands-on learning experiences that connect youth with nature through workshops, expert-led discussions, and experiential activities. Annually, it brings together around 50 youth leaders from Guimaras, Iloilo, and Bacolod, supported by strong partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, and private organizations.

Evaluations from 2016–2019 and 2022–2024 indicate overwhelmingly positive outcomes, highlighting increased environmental knowledge, advocacy, and community engagement among participants. The camp has also produced notable success stories, including youth-led projects adopted by local governments. Overall, the JBLFMU Eco-Adventure Camp has proven effective in empowering young leaders as advocates for sustainability, environmental protection, and community-based action, while continuously evolving through participant feedback and collaborative partnerships.

The first committee meeting for the 7th JBLFMU Eco-Adventure Camp was successfully held, presided over by Mary Mar E. Jaleco, JBLFMU CES Coordinator, and Riza Ornos, Camp Director from EarthingPH. Key members of the Advisory Board and organizing partners, including representatives from LGU Nueva Valencia, DENR-PENRO Guimaras, GENRO, DENR Region 6, and JBLFMU CES personnel, participated alongside Capt. Alfred Espinosa and student interns from IDC and CSCJ, emphasizing youth engagement in environmental advocacy.

The meeting focused on refining camp programs, streamlining logistics, and strengthening partnerships, ensuring a well-coordinated and impactful experience for participants in the upcoming camp.

This year’s JBLFMU Eco-Adventure Camp was truly an experience to remember, not just for its impactful activities, but for the resilience and spirit shown by everyone involved.

Amidst scorching temperatures that pushed limits and intense downpours accompanied by lightning and thunder, our campers pressed on with unmatched enthusiasm and determination. The challenges brought by nature only strengthened our bond, fueling a deeper appreciation for the very environment we aim to protect.

From immersive eco-learning sessions and creative environmental challenges to the thrilling Amazing Race, this camp was unlike any other, a perfect blend of fun, knowledge, teamwork, and purpose. Participants grew not just as individuals, but as a united force for change.
This is more than just a camp, rather it is our movement toward a sustainable and resilient future, empowering the youth to act for our planet.

The JBLFMU CES is truly grateful to all sponsors, organizers, partners, facilitators, and brave participants. Everyone’s energy, contributions, support, and passion brought this vision to life. From the CES Office, we firmly believe: Together, we endured. Together, we thrived. Together, we lead the change.

The 7th JBLFMU Eco-Adventure Camp was made possible through the collective efforts and unwavering support of numerous academic institutions, government agencies, private organizations, and community stakeholders. Key partners included JBLFMU Arevalo, JBLFMU Molo, JBLCF Bacolod, JBLCF Puerto del Mar, JBLF Inc., the Municipality of Nueva Valencia, Province of Guimaras, DENR-PENRO Guimaras, GENRO, EarthingPH, DENR Region 6, Stolt-Nielsen, JCI Regatta, Guimaras Wind, MIWD, Standard Insurance, Igang Bay Marine Sanctuary, and PCGA.

These collaborations ensured the successful planning, organization, and implementation of camp activities, fostering youth engagement in environmental education and advocacy. The combined expertise and resources of all partners strengthened program delivery, enabling participants to develop environmental stewardship, sustainable practices, and leadership skills.

The 7th Eco-Adventure Camp stands as a testament to the power of partnership and collective action in nurturing the next generation of eco-leaders and creating lasting impacts for a greener and more sustainable future.

The Eco-Adventure Camp came alive with bold ideas and fresh perspectives as youth leaders took the stage in a high-energy pitching session, presenting locally developed environmental solutions rooted in creativity, critical thinking, and sustainability.

Standing out among the innovations was “Eye-Tapon,” a project pitched—and successfully implemented—by Lea Barte, Krishyl Bangero, Kiezel Escander, and Cindyl Jamoyot from Iloilo Doctors College in Sitio Serum, Brgy. San Nicolas, Buenavista, Guimaras.

Meaning “Look Before You Throw,” Eye-Tapon champions responsible waste management by urging individuals to pause and assess whether waste can be reused, recycled, or properly disposed of. With its simple yet powerful message, the initiative inspires everyday actions that lead to cleaner, greener communities.

Congratulations to our four young eco-leaders for transforming bright ideas into real-world impact. When youth lead, sustainability follows. Together, we build a better future.