03/03/2026
𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦 𝗨𝗣𝗗𝗔𝗧𝗘 | CEFI joins Inaugural Sustainable Futures Summit hosted by MSEUF
Faculty members of Calayan Educational Foundation, Inc. took part in the first-ever Enverga University Sustainable Futures Summit at the AEC Little Theater on February 27.
Eleonor Francisco, Coordinator of Community Affairs, together with the CES Coordinators from their respective departments — Carla Virginia Flores (Non-Teaching), Marie Antoinette Cantos (CLASEd), Clyde Pineda Cacha (RadTech), Dr. Filipe Merano (CHS), Monica Ramchand-Amparo (CBM), Tricia Santiago Pastrana (CCCJ), and William Christopher Salazar (MedTech) — actively participated in the event, representing their departments in advancing community extension initiatives.
ABS-CBN Weather Anchor and Resident Meteorologist Ariel Rojas served as the keynote speaker and explained the importance of community reporting, emphasizing how public participation in data-sharing can drive innovation and strengthen environmental sustainability.
Serving as one of the resource speakers, Dr. Rogelio T. Galera Jr., Director IV of the Commission on Higher Education Regional Office IV, highlighted the essence of transformative education. He advocated for a shift in perspective, urging academic institutions to treat communities as active partners and stakeholders rather than mere subjects of research or temporary projects.
Engr. Russell Alegre, Mall Manager of SM City Lucena, served as the second plenary speaker, stating the mall’s commitment to environmental stewardship. His presentation focused on the company’s current sustainability initiatives and local community involvement.
Highlighting the plan for a greener future, Vice President for Administration Atty. Dario R. Opistan, CPA, showcased how MSEUF directly targets the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. He emphasized that by aligning the University’s master plan with international sustainability standards, the institution is not only improving its global standing but also ensuring meaningful, long-term social impact.
As the fourth plenary speaker, Mr. Nilo B. Tamoria, CESO III, Regional Executive Director of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources CALABARZON, focused on the agency’s strategic efforts to empower communities. Director Tamoria emphasized the DENR’s key role in transforming environmental policy by involving communities in sustainable development.
Meanwhile, Mr. Bryan Ezra C. Gonzales, MPA, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of GoodGov PH, underscored the urgent need to break down corrupt networks between corporations and politicians that fuel environmental exploitation.
The summit achieved its goal of connecting diverse groups of students, faculty members, educators, researchers, professionals, and sustainability advocates to learn, inspire one another, and develop actionable strategies for environmental sustainability and climate resilience.
✍️ | Hyacinth Francisco
📷 | Photo from Ms. Eleonor Francisco
