A single day spent outdoors can spark a lifelong commitment to protecting the environment. That was the hope behind this year’s World Environment Day celebration at La Mesa Ecopark, where young Filipinos came together to learn, take action, and make personal promises for the planet.
Organized by Manila Water Foundation and La Mesa Ecopark, the event gathered youth leaders from different organizations under the global theme #NowForClimate. Instead of simply talking about environmental issues, participants experienced firsthand how small actions can grow into lasting change.
The day opened with a screening of The Foresters A Story of Climate Keepers, a documentary presented in partnership with MAD Travel. Featuring communities and young people working together to protect forests and support cultural communities, the film encouraged participants to think about the role they can play in caring for nature.
Inspired by what they watched, the youth wrote their own #ECOmmitments, listing practical steps they plan to take in their daily lives to help the environment.
The learning continued with a guided #BiodiverCity Walk around La Mesa Ecopark, where participants explored native trees and visited the Butterfly Garden to better appreciate the rich ecosystems found within the watershed.
The group also planted two Mangkono seedlings, also known as Philippine Ironwood, a rare hardwood species endemic to the country. Donated by Malampaya Foundation, the seedlings represent how partnerships can strengthen conservation efforts.
Before the day ended, participants collected seeds from Kupang trees that will be cared for at Bahay Punlaan before being planted across La Mesa Ecopark and the nearby La Mesa Nature Reserve.
The celebration also offered a preview of the ecopark’s upcoming Phase 2 opening, which will welcome more visitors looking to spend time with nature.
Every tree planted, every seed collected, and every promise written down began with people choosing to take part. Your school, workplace, organization, or circle of friends can begin with one meaningful activity too. Every effort, however small, helps create a healthier future for generations to come.
