BOTOLAN, Zambales (PIA) — About 480 senior high school students of Botolan National High School participated in the school roadshow of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR).
The roadshow is part of the Fisheries Coastal Resiliency (FishCoRe) Project, a World Bank-supported initiative aimed at strengthening marine conservation and climate resilience through education and community engagement
By bringing the campaign directly to schools, the project underscores the importance of grassroots involvement in environmental protection.
BFAR Provincial Fisheries Officer Neil Encinaries emphasized the value of instilling environmental consciousness among young Filipinos, particularly those living in coastal areas.
“The youth are the hope of our nation. Raising their awareness and encouraging their actions to protect our oceans is a vital step to ensure that future generations will continue to enjoy fresh fish and other marine resources, which are primary sources of affordable protein and various essential nutrients,” he said.
Centered on youth empowerment and coastal stewardship, the roadshow featured interactive lectures and presentations from marine conservation organizations, including FishRight, the National Fisheries Research and Development Institute, and Marine Wildlife Watch of the Philippines.
These sessions provided students with scientific insights and practical strategies for addressing coastal challenges such as overfishing, habitat degradation, and climate change impacts.
BFAR Region 3 representative Neil Kenneth Catibog encouraged the youth to recognize their power as agents of change in their own coastal communities.
The highlight of the event was the Kabataang FishCoRe Pledge, where Grade 11 STEM student Precious Mora led her peers in making a commitment to protect marine biodiversity.
Students also signed the Kabataang FishCoRe Commitment Board, symbolizing their unity and resolve to champion sustainable practices.
Following successful roadshows in Bataan and Zambales, the FishCoRe School Roadshow is set to continue its journey in Bulacan and Pampanga.
The FishCoRe Project serves as a model for integrating youth education with national efforts to build resilient coastal communities and ensure food security through sustainable fisheries management. (CLJD/RGP, PIA Region 3-Zambales)
