15/05/2026
FROM WASTE TO WORTH: CO-CREATING CIRCULAR SCHOOLS AND COMMUNITIES
On May 14, 2026, the University of San Agustin Research and Development Foundation, Inc. successfully convened the Visioning and Dream Statement Workshop for the EU-PH Green Economy Partnership supported project, Eco Spaces: Igniting Change for an Inclusive, Circular and Sustainable Future at Hotel Sta. Monica, University of San Agustin, Iloilo City.
The activity was co-facilitated by UNDP Philippines United Nations Development Programme, the DILG Philippines DILG Iloilo City Field Office, Iloilo City Office of the City Planning and Development Coordinator, City General Services Office , DepEd Region VI and DepEd Iloilo City.
The event highlighted the importance of inclusive participation, with strong representation from Gender Equality Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) sectors including senior citizens, Indigenous Peoples, LGBTQIA+ groups, PWD, women, and youth (SK and PYAP).
The University of San Agustin was led by University President Rev. Fr. Arnel S. Dizon, OSA together Rev. Fr. Renchie Vicente Senoro, OSA, Dr. Sherwin Sepe, Mr. John Paul Petrola, Ms. Felinor Villa, Ms. Grace Sabadisto, Ms. Mary Angelica Tahan, Ms. Jessa Maquilan with key representatives from the Iloilo City Government: Engr. Neil Ravena who discussed about RA 9003: Solid Waste Management Act, EnP Ronald Cartagena who facilitated the session on Envisioning a Circular Iloilo City, and Ms. Cindy Dorde Blasurca representing DILG City Director Oscar Lim for the topic: Strengthening BLGU Regulatory Functions for Circular Economy.
A meaningful learning session on Circular Economy 101 was facilitated by Mr. Edlin Lumanog. The DepEd Eco Champions Framework was presented by Mrs. Wendyll Mae Villaprudente, PDO II of the Education Support Services Division, following the recently signed Memorandum of Agreement between USARDFI and DepEd Region 6 integrating Circular Economy and Behavior Change in education.
The message of support from DepEd Iloilo City Schools Division Superintendent, Dr. Ma. Luz de los Reyes was delivered by Ms. Lory Noquera, Education Program Supervisor..
One of the highlights of the workshop was the presentation of Vision/Dream Statements crafted by each barangay and their partner schools, showcasing creative visions of resilient, circular, inclusive, and environmentally responsible communities. The workshop concluded with a commitment-setting activity and the signing of a Commitment Wall โ symbolizing a united pledge to transform waste into worth and build a sustainable future together.
Together, we ignite change for an inclusive, circular, and sustainable future.
University of San Agustin
UNDP Philippines
European Union in the Philippines
Osafund - Fondazione Agostiniani nel Mondo