TACLOBAN CITY — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)regional office has officially launched a nature-based learning program in Samar province aimed at reconnecting young learners with the environment and strengthening climate awareness.
Dubbed “Nature and Climate School,” the initiative is being implemented under the Ulot Watershed Model Forest and seeks to promote environmental stewardship through hands-on, outdoor education.
DENR Regional Executive Director Arturo Salazar said experiential learning plays a key role in shaping environmental values among children.
“We believe that the most effective way to teach our children to care for the environment is to let them see, feel, and understand its beauty and importance,” Salazar said, adding that the program aims to develop future environmental stewards.
The launch followed a pilot run conducted in February 2026 involving eco-learners from Paranas, where participants explored the rich biodiversity of the Samar Island Natural Park. Activities included guided eco-trails and visits to arboretums, allowing students to learn about various tree species and ecological systems.
According to DENR, the program also aims to address the growing disconnect between children and nature brought about by increased exposure to digital technology.
The concept of the Nature and Climate School was inspired by best practices shared during a global forum of the International Model Forest Network, attended by representatives from the Ulot Watershed Model Forest.
The initiative is supported by the government of Canada in partnership with DENR, the local government of Paranas, academic institutions, people’s organizations, and other stakeholders.
DENR Assistant Regional Director Angelito Villanueva emphasized that sustained collaboration and support would be vital to ensure the program’s long-term success.
The agency also urged the Department of Education to consider integrating experiential environmental education into formal school curricula.
Local officials, including Paranas Mayor Elvira Balbalcon, Vice Mayor Eunice Balbalcon, and Samar Governor Sharee Ann Tan, were recognized for their support of the initiative.
DENR expressed hope that the Nature and Climate School model can be replicated across Eastern Visayas to help raise a new generation of environmentally conscious citizens.
“This is a very laudable initiative. There is no better time than now to educate our children about climate change and other environmental challenges,” Salazar said.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
